bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics and complication risks in data‐driven clusters among Chinese community diabetes populations
Authors: Li Binqi , Yang Zizhong , Liu Yang , Zhou Xin , Wang Weiqing , Gao Zhengnan , Yan Li , Qin Guijun , Tang Xulei , Wan Qin , Chen Lulu , Luo Zuojie , Ning Guang , Gu Weijun , Mu Yiming
Published: August 2024

Background

Novel diabetes phenotypes were proposed by the Europeans through cluster analysis, but Chinese community diabetes populations might exhibit different characteristics. This study aims to explore the clinical characteristics of novel diabetes subgroups under data‐driven analysis in Chinese community diabetes populations.

Methods

We used K‐means cluster analysis in 6369 newly diagnosed diabetic patients from eight centers of the REACTION (Risk Evaluation of cAncers in Chinese diabeTic Individuals) study. The cluster analysis was performed based on age, body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin, homeostatic modeled insulin resistance index, and homeostatic modeled pancreatic β‐cell functionality index. The clinical features were evaluated with the analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi‐square test. Logistic regression analysis was done to compare chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease risks between subgroups.

Results

Overall, 2063 (32.39%), 658 (10.33%), 1769 (27.78%), and 1879 (29.50%) populations were assigned to severe obesity‐related and insulin‐resistant diabetes (SOIRD), severe insulin‐deficient diabetes (SIDD), mild age‐associated diabetes mellitus (MARD), and mild insulin‐deficient diabetes (MIDD) subgroups, respectively. Individuals in the MIDD subgroup had a low risk burden equivalent to prediabetes, but with reduced insulin secretion. Individuals in the SOIRD subgroup were obese, had insulin resistance, and a high prevalence of fatty liver, tumors, family history of diabetes, and tumors. Individuals in the SIDD subgroup had severe insulin deficiency, the poorest glycemic control, and the highest prevalence of dyslipidemia and diabetic nephropathy. Individuals in MARD subgroup were the oldest, had moderate metabolic dysregulation and the highest risk of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

The data‐driven approach to differentiating the status of new‐onset diabetes in the Chinese community was feasible. Patients in different clusters presented different characteristics and risks of complications.

image
Using computer vision of facial expressions to assess symptom domains and treatment response in antipsychotic‐naïve patients with first‐episode psychosis
Authors: Ambrosen Karen S. , Lemvigh Cecilie K. , Nielsen Mette Ø. , Glenthøj Birte Y. , Syeda Warda T. , Ebdrup Bjørn H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Facial expressions are a core aspect of non‐verbal communication. Reduced emotional expressiveness of the face is a common negative symptom of schizophrenia, however, quantifying negative symptoms can be clinically challenging and involves a considerable element of rater subjectivity. We used computer vision to investigate if (i) automated assessment of facial expressions captures negative as well as positive and general symptom domains, and (ii) if automated assessments are associated with treatment response in initially antipsychotic‐naïve patients with first‐episode psychosis.

Method

We included 46 patients (mean age 25.4 (6.1); 65.2% males). Psychopathology was assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks of monotherapy with amisulpride using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Baseline interview videos were recorded. Seventeen facial action units (AUs), that is, activation of muscles, from the Facial Action Coding System were extracted using OpenFace 2.0. A correlation matrix was calculated for each patient. Facial expressions were identified using spectral clustering at group‐level. Associations between facial expressions and psychopathology were investigated using multiple linear regression.

Results

Three clusters of facial expressions were identified related to different locations of the face. Cluster 1 was associated with positive and general symptoms at baseline, Cluster 2 was associated with all symptom domains, showing the strongest association with the negative domain, and Cluster 3 was only associated with general symptoms. Cluster 1 was significantly associated with the clinically rated improvement in positive and general symptoms after treatment, and Cluster 2 was significantly associated with clinical improvement in all domains.

Conclusion

Using automated computer vision of facial expressions during PANSS interviews did not only capture negative symptoms but also combinations of the three overall domains of psychopathology. Moreover, automated assessments of facial expressions at baseline were associated with initial antipsychotic treatment response. The findings underscore the clinical relevance of facial expressions and motivate further investigations of computer vision in clinical psychiatry.
Mechanism research of non‐coding RNA in immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy
Authors: Bian Jie , Shao Rui , Li Juan , Zhu Jing‐Feng , Shao Ai‐Zhong , Liu Chao , Lu L. V. , Pan Hui‐Wen , Shi Yi‐Jun , Fang Na
Published: August 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies for tumors of different systems have attained significant achievements and have changed the current situation of tumor treatment due to their therapeutic characteristics of high specificity and low side effects. The immune checkpoint Programmed death 1/Programmed cell death‐Ligand 1 (PD‐1/PD‐L1) axis exerts a vital role in the immune escape of tumor cells. As a result, it has become a key target for tumor immunotherapy. Therefore, to perfect research into potential regulatory factors for the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis, in order to understand and illustrate tumor ICI therapy mechanisms, is a significant goal. Moreover, ncRNA has been verified to regulate the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis in the tumor immune microenvironment to regulate tumor genesis and development. ncRNAs can improve or decrease the efficacy of ICI therapy by modulating PD‐L1 expression. This review aimed to investigate the mechanisms of action of ncRNA in regulating the PD‐1/PD‐L1 axis in ICI therapy, to provide more efficient immunotherapy for tumors of different systems.
Fucoidan improving spinal cord injury recovery: Modulating microenvironment and promoting remyelination
Authors: Shu Haoming , Zhang Xin , Pu Yingyan , Zhang Yinuo , Huang Shixue , Ma Jun , Cao Li , Zhou Xuhui
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Excessive neuroinflammation, apoptosis, glial scar, and demyelination triggered by spinal cord injury (SCI) are major obstacles to SCI repair. Fucoidan, a natural marine plant extract, possesses broad‐spectrum anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects and is regarded as a potential therapeutic for various diseases, including neurological disorders. However, its role in SCI has not been investigated.

Methods

In this study, we established an SCI model in mice and intervened in injury repair by daily intraperitoneal injections of different doses of fucoidan (10 and 20 mg/kg). Concurrently, primary oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) were treated in vitro to validate the differentiation‐promoting effect of fucoidan on OPCs. Basso Mouse Scale (BMS), Louisville Swim Scale (LSS), and Rotarod test were carried out to measure the functional recovery. Immunofluorescence staining, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed to assess the neuroinflammation, apoptosis, glial scar, and remyelination. Western blot analysis was conducted to clarify the underlying mechanism of remyelination.

Results

Our results indicate that in the SCI model, fucoidan exhibits significant anti‐inflammatory effects and promotes the transformation of pro‐inflammatory M1‐type microglia/macrophages into anti‐inflammatory M2‐type ones. Fucoidan enhances the survival of neurons and axons in the injury area and improves remyelination. Additionally, fucoidan promotes OPCs differentiation into mature oligodendrocytes by activating the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Conclusion

Fucoidan improves SCI repair by modulating the microenvironment and promoting remyelination.
LEAP2 is associated with impulsivity and reward sensitivity depending on the nutritional status and decreases with protein intake in humans
Authors: Andreoli María F. , Kruger Ana Luz , Sokolov Aleksandr V. , Rukh Gull , De Francesco Pablo N. , Perello Mario , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: August 2024

Aim

Liver‐expressed antimicrobial peptide 2 (LEAP2) dynamics in human plasma and its association with feeding behaviour remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study aims: (a) to investigate fasting LEAP2 in participants with normal weight or with overweight or mild obesity (OW/OB); (b) to study the association between fasting LEAP2 and anthropometric and metabolic traits, feeding behaviour, LEAP2 genetic variants and blood cell DNA methylation status; and (c) to ascertain postprandial changes in LEAP2 after high protein intake and the association with feeding behaviour and food intake.

Methods

Anthropometric and behavioural measures, genotyping, methylation profiling, plasma glucose and LEAP2 concentrations were assessed in 327 females and males. A subgroup of 123 participants received an ad libitum high‐protein meal, and postprandial LEAP2 concentration and behavioural measures were assessed.

Results

LEAP2 concentration was higher in participants with OW/OB (p < 0.001) and in females (p < 0.001), and was associated with LEAP2 single nucleotide polymorphisms rs765760 (p = 0.012) and rs803223 (p = 0.019), but not with LEAP2 methylation status. LEAP2 concentration was directly related to glycaemia (p = 0.001) and fullness (p = 0.003) in participants with normal weight, whereas it was associated with body mass index (p = 0.018), waist circumference (p = 0.014) and motor impulsivity in participants with OW/OB (p = 0.005). A negative association with reward responsiveness was observed in participants with OW/OB (p = 0.023). LEAP2 concentration was inversely associated with food intake (p = 0.034) and decreased after a high‐protein meal (p < 0.001), particularly in women (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Increased LEAP2 in participants with OW/OB is associated with behavioural characteristics of obesity. Our results show sexual dimorphism in LEAP2 concentration before and after food intake and highlight the role of LEAP2 in feeding regulation.
Exploring plurilingualism, ethnicity, and intercultural effectiveness: Insights from university students
Authors: Tang Fei , Calafato Raees
Published: August 2024

The study reported in this article examined the dynamics of plurilingualism, ethnicity, and effectiveness in intercultural encounters among a sample of 221 participants from Chinese universities via an online questionnaire and a situational judgement test comprised of three scenarios involving plurilingual and intercultural encounters. It employed latent profile analysis to identify distinct profiles based on participants' plurilingualism, including how they used their languages, their exposure to linguistic diversity in oral interactions, and their experiences with plurilingualism in society, school, and university. The study also considered participants' ethnic backgrounds and self‐reported intercultural effectiveness. The findings revealed two latent profiles characterised by notable differences in ethnic background, language proficiency, language use, and experiences of plurilingualism in society, school, and university. Additionally, the most consistent predictors of participants' behaviour in the three scenarios were their fluid language use and exposure to linguistic diversity during oral interactions.
Single‐trial interindividual correlation shows semantic and visuospatial networks are fundamental for advanced mathematical learning
Authors: Li Mengyi , Wang Zilong , Yu Xiaodan , Zhou Xinlin
Published: August 2024

Mathematical learning and ability are crucial for individual and national economic and technological development, but the neural mechanisms underlying advanced mathematical learning remain unclear. The current study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate how brain networks were involved in advanced mathematical learning and transfer. We recorded fMRI data from 24 undergraduate students as they learned the advanced mathematical concept of a commutative mathematical group. After learning, participants were required to complete learning and transfer behavioural tests. Results of single‐trial interindividual brain‐behaviour correlation analysis found that brain activity in the semantic and visuospatial networks, and the functional connectivity within the semantic network during advanced mathematical learning were positively correlated with learning and transfer effects. Additionally, the functional connectivity between the semantic and visuospatial networks was negatively correlated with the learning and transfer effects. These findings suggest that advanced mathematical learning relies on both semantic and visuospatial networks.
GDH1 exacerbates renal fibrosis by inhibiting the transcriptional activity of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma
Authors: Qin Jun , Zhao Yingying , Li Shumin , Liu Qianqi , Huang Songming , Yu Xiaowen
Published: August 2024

Renal fibrosis is the common outcome of practically all progressive forms of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a significant societal health concern. Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) 1 is one of key enzymes in glutamine metabolism to catalyze the reversible conversion of glutamate to α‐ketoglutarate and ammonia. However, its function in renal fibrosis has not yet been proven. In this study, GDH1 expression was significantly downregulated in kidney tissues of both children with kidney disease and animal models of CKD. In vivo, the use of R162 (a GDH1 inhibitor) significantly improved renal fibrosis, as indicated by Sirius red and Masson trichrome staining. These findings are consistent with the impaired expression of fibrosis indicators in kidneys from both the unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and 5/6 nephrectomy (5/6 Nx) models. In vitro, silencing GDH1 or pretreatment with R162 inhibited the induction of fibrosis indicators in tissue kidney proximal tubular cells (TKPTS) treated with Transforming growth factor Beta 1 (TGF‐β1), whereas activating GDH1 worsened TGF‐β1's induction impact. Using RNA‐sequence, luciferase reporter assays and Biacore analysis, we demonstrated that GDH1 interacts with Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and blocks its transcriptional activity, independent of the protein's expression. Additionally, R162 treatment boosted PPARγ transcriptional activity, and blocking of this signaling pathway reversed R162's protective effect. Finally, we discovered that R162 treatment or silencing GDH1 greatly lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid accumulation. These findings concluded that suppressing GDH1 or R162 treatment could prevent renal fibrosis by augmenting PPARγ transcriptional activity to control lipid accumulation and redox balance.
Enhanced silicate weathering accelerates forest carbon sequestration by stimulating the soil mineral carbon pump
Authors: Xu Tongtong , Yuan Zuoqiang , Vicca Sara , Goll Daniel S. , Li Guochen , Lin Luxiang , Chen Hui , Bi Boyuan , Chen Qiong , Li Chenlu , Wang Xing , Wang Chao , Hao Zhanqing , Fang Yunting , Beerling David J.
Published: August 2024

Enhanced silicate rock weathering (ERW) is an emerging strategy for carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from the atmosphere to mitigate anthropogenic climate change. ERW aims at promoting soil inorganic carbon sequestration by accelerating geochemical weathering processes. Theoretically, ERW may also impact soil organic carbon (SOC), the largest carbon pool in terrestrial ecosystems, but experimental evidence for this is largely lacking. Here, we conducted a 2‐year field experiment in tropical rubber plantations in the southeast of China to evaluate the effects of wollastonite powder additions (0, 0.25, and 0.5 kg m−2) on both soil organic and inorganic carbon at 0–10 cm depth. We found that ERW significantly increased the concentration of SOC and HCO3−, but the increases in SOC were four and eight times higher than that of HCO3− with low‐ and high‐level wollastonite applications. ERW had positive effects on the accrual of organic carbon in mineral‐associated organic matter (MAOM) and macroaggregate fractions, but not on particulate organic matter. Path analysis suggested that ERW increased MAOM mainly by increasing the release of Ca, Si, and Fe, and to a lesser extent by stimulating root growth and microbial‐derived carbon inputs. Our study indicates that ERW with wollastonite can promote SOC sequestration in stable MOAM in surface soils through both the soil mineral carbon pump and microbial carbon pump. These effects may have been larger than the inorganic CDR during our experiment. We argue it is essential to account for the responses of SOC in the assessments of CDR by ERW.
Influence of particle parameters on deposition onto healthy and damaged human hair
Authors: Tham Huijun Phoebe , Yip Kah Yuen , Aitipamula Srinivasulu , Mothe Srinivasa Reddy , Zhao Wenguang , Choong Ping Sen , Benetti Ayca Altay , Gan Wanjuan Evonne , Leong Fong Yew , Thoniyot Praveen , Dawson Thomas L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This research investigates how particle parameters, such as zeta potential, size, functional group, material composition, and hydrophobicity affect their affinity and deposition of particles onto hair.

Methods

Streaming potential was used as the technique for analysis. The streaming potential data obtained was then converted to surface coverage data. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was also done to visualize particle localization on the hair surface.

Results

This study found stronger particle affinity on healthy than on damaged (oxidatively bleached) hair, due to diminished interaction sites from the removal of the hair shaft's external lipid layer. SEM imaging supported these findings and offered insights into particle localization. Hydrophilic silica particles accumulated along the exposed hydrophilic cuticle edges of healthy hair, due to hydrogen bonding with the exposed endocuticle. This localization is hypothesized to be due to the limited hydrophilic binding sites on the hydrophobic healthy hair cuticle surface. In damaged hair, an abundance of hydrophilic sites across the cuticle surface results in more dispersed binding. Hydrogen bonding and electrostatic attraction were shown to be the predominant forces influencing deposition, with hydrophobic interactions playing a less influential role. The affinity studies also proved that electrostatic attractions work over a longer range and are more effective at lower particle conditions compared with hydrogen bonding which only start to play a bigger role at higher particle concentrations. Steric hindrance of bulky side groups acted as a significant repulsive force. Results also revealed that larger particles deposit poorly on both healthy and damaged hair compared with smaller ones. Compared with neutrally charged silica nanoparticles (SN‐2), positively charged PMMA particles (PN+16) have a stronger affinity to healthy hair, with highly charged particles (PN+49) depositing most rapidly.

Conclusion

This study provides a fundamental understanding of how particle–surface parameters influence their affinity to hair and how damaging hair affects deposition.
Foreign language enjoyment overcomes anxiety and boredom to boost oral proficiency in the first year of English foreign language learning
Authors: Dewaele Jean‐Marc , Guedat‐Bittighoffer Delphine , Dat Marie‐Ange
Published: August 2024

The current study investigates the effect of three foreign language learner emotions on the amount of gain in oral proficiency over one school year of 159 eleven‐year‐old pupils starting English foreign language classes in France. Previous cross‐sectional studies have shown positive relationships between foreign language enjoyment (FLE) and various performance and achievement measures, as well as negative relationships between foreign language classroom anxiety (FLCA), foreign language classroom boredom (FLCB), and FL performance and achievement measures. A common finding is that negative emotions explain more variance in Foreign Language (FL) performance and achievement measures at a single point in time than positive emotions. Correlation analyses revealed that the amount of gain was positively linked to FLE and negatively linked FLCA and FLCB. A first multiple regression analysis showed that, surprisingly, FLE was the only (positive) predictor of gain in oral proficiency. A second multiple regression analysis revealed that the FLE teacher dimension was the only predictor of gain in oral proficiency. This suggests that positive emotions, and especially the ability of teachers to meet the psychological needs of their students, have a stronger long‐term effect while negative emotions are more likely to disrupt performance in the moment. Pedagogical implications are presented.
Prediction of glass‐forming regions in AlF3‐M(PO3)2‐R2SO4‐based poly‐anionic fluoro‐sulfo‐phosphate glasses
Authors: Zhu Weijie , Wang Weichao , Geng Xin , Liu Yueting , Ji Yao , Liang Binfeng
Published: August 2024

Phosphate glasses have garnered significant attention as host materials for various laser applications due to their high rare‐earth ion solubility, large stimulated emission cross‐section, and low nonlinear refractive index. Modification of phosphate glass composition is feasible through poly‐anion substitution, leading to poly‐anionic glasses with unique properties. This study explores the glass‐forming regions (GFRs) of AlF3‐R2SO4‐M(PO3)2‐based poly‐anionic fluoro‐sulfo‐phosphate (R/M‐FSP) glasses, a promising class of ionic glasses. Theoretical GFRs are predicted using a thermodynamic approach and then validated through a few experiments. The experimental GFRs range from K/Ba‐FSP > Na/Ba‐FSP > Li/Ba‐FSP > K/Sr‐FSP > Na/Sr‐FSP > Li/Sr‐FSP, with wider areas observed under lower cation field strength. Notably, the K/Ba‐FSP glass system exhibits high anti‐crystallization stability (approximately 140°C) and a low nonlinear refractive index (1.43 × 10–13–1.83 × 10–13 esu), advantageous for high‐power laser operations. Furthermore, a comparative study among K/Ba‐FSP glasses elucidates the general principles of manipulating glass structure and physical properties through compositional variation.
Predicting the trajectory of non‐suicidal self‐injury among adolescents
Authors: Mason Geneva E. , Auerbach Randy P. , Stewart Jeremy G.
Published: August 2024

Background

Non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) is common among adolescents receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment and the months post‐discharge is a high‐risk period for self‐injurious behavior. Thus, identifying predictors that shape the course of post‐discharge NSSI may provide insights into ways to improve clinical outcomes. Accordingly, we used machine learning to identify the strongest predictors of NSSI trajectories drawn from a comprehensive clinical assessment.

Methods

The study included adolescents (N = 612; females n = 435; 71.1%) aged 13–19‐years‐old (M = 15.6, SD = 1.4) undergoing inpatient treatment. Youth were administered clinical interviews and symptom questionnaires at intake (baseline) and before termination. NSSI frequency was assessed at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month follow‐ups. Latent class growth analyses were used to group adolescents based on their pattern of NSSI across follow‐ups.

Results

Three classes were identified: Low Stable (n = 83), Moderate Fluctuating (n = 260), and High Persistent (n = 269). Important predictors of the High Persistent class in our regularized regression models (LASSO) included baseline psychiatric symptoms and comorbidity, past‐week suicidal ideation (SI) severity, lifetime average and worst‐point SI intensity, and NSSI in the past 30 days (bs = 0.75–2.33). Only worst‐point lifetime suicide ideation intensity was identified as a predictor of the Low Stable class (b = −8.82); no predictors of the Moderate Fluctuating class emerged.

Conclusions

This study found a set of intake clinical variables that indicate which adolescents may experience persistent NSSI post‐discharge. Accordingly, this may help identify youth that may benefit from additional monitoring and support post‐hospitalization.
Virulence and resistance factors of Nakaseomyces glabratus (formerly known as Candida glabrata) in Europe: A systematic review
Authors: Rodríguez‐Cerdeira Carmen , Pinto‐Almazán Rodolfo , Saunte Ditte M. L. , Hay R. , Szepietowski Jacek C. , Moreno‐Coutiño Gabriela , Skerlev Mihael , Prohic Asja , Martínez‐Herrera Erick
Published: August 2024

Background

Nakaseomyces glabratus (N. glabratus) formerly known as Candida glabrata (C. glabrata), is an endogenous opportunistic pathogen, which is generally located in the gastrointestinal tract but can spread in immunocompromised patients. N. glabratus is the second most common pathogen that causes candidemia in several countries. N. glabratus virulence factors may increase antifungal resistance and reduce the number of available treatment options. High resistance to azoles and increasing resistance to echinocandins have been previously reported in N. glabratus.

Objective

To establish the distribution of N. glabratus isolates in Europe and its drug susceptibility/resistance in each country over the last 7 years.

Methods

The search was performed across three databases: PubMed, Scopus and Scielo, using the MeSH terms: “Candida glabrata”, “Nakaseomyces glabratus”, “Europe”, “resistance” and “Epidemiology” exclusively in English. All available information from January 2002 to December 2022 was included, excluding reviews, meta‐analyses and book chapters.

Results

Fifty‐seven articles with information on antifungal susceptibility in Europe were retrieved and analysed with a total of 15,400 reported C. glabrata isolates. Remarkably, nations that presented the maximum number of cases during the study period included the United Kingdom (n = 7241, 47.02%), France (n = 3190, 20.71%), Spain (n = 900, 5.84%), Hungary (n = 745, 4.84%) and Italy (n = 486, 3.16%). C. glabrata isolates presented resistance to azoles [voriconazole (n = 2225, 14.45%), fluconazole (n = 1612, 10.47%), itraconazole (n = 337, 2.19%) and clotrimazole (n = 89, 0.58%)], increased resistance to echinocandins, especially to anidulafungin (n = 138, 0.89%), and high sensitivity to amphotericin B.

Conclusions

The number of candidemia cases associated with triazole‐resistant N. glabratus isolates have been increasing in Europe. Therefore, echinocandins and amphotericin B can be considered optional empirical treatments; however, antifungal susceptibility testing is required to determine the best therapeutic options.
Population genetic structure and demographic history reconstruction of introduced flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) in two US Mid‐Atlantic rivers
Authors: Waraniak Justin M. , Eackles Michael S. , Keagy Jason , Smith Geoffrey D. , Schall Megan , Stark Sydney , White Shannon L. , Kazyak David C. , Wagner Tyler
Published: August 2024

Population genetic analysis of invasive populations can provide valuable insights into the source of introductions, pathways for expansion, and their demographic histories. Flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) are a prolific invasive species with high fecundity, long‐distance dispersal, and piscivorous feeding habits that can lead to declines in native fish populations. In this study, we analyse the genetics of invasive P. olivaris in the Mid‐Atlantic region to assess their connectivity and attempt to reconstruct the history of introduced populations. Based on an assessment across 13 microsatellite loci, P. olivaris from the Susquehanna River system (N = 537), Schuylkill River (N = 33), and Delaware River (N = 1) have low genetic diversity (global Hobs = 0.504), although we detected no evidence of substantial inbreeding (FIS = −0.083 to 0.022). P. olivaris from these different river systems were genetically distinct, suggesting separate introductions. However, population structure was much weaker within each river system and exhibited a pattern of high connectivity, with some evidence of isolation by distance. P. olivaris from the Susquehanna and Schuylkill rivers showed evidence for recent genetic bottlenecks, and demographic models were consistent with historical records, which suggest that populations were established by recent founder events consisting of a small number of individuals. Our results show the risk posed by small introductions of P. olivaris, which can spread widely once a population is established, and highlight the importance of prevention and sensitive early detection methods to prevent the spread of P. olivaris in the future.
Modeling the Effects of Task Repetition in Second Language Writing: Examining Interindividual and Intraindividual Variability
Authors: Hiver Phil , Al‐Hoorie Ali H. , Murakami Akira
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we report a longitudinal study of the effects of procedural task repetition on learners’ task performance (i.e., syntactic complexity in relation to lexical complexity). We investigated how task repetition results in differences at the group and individual level across each task interval (T = 7). Intermediate‐level Saudi learners of English (N = 93) performed a written task biweekly over the course of a whole semester. To control for text type, mode and tenor were fixed at each data elicitation moment, but field was varied in these writing tasks to keep learners engaged. Using Bayesian generalized additive mixed models and mixed location‐scale models, we analyzed specific ways that groups and individuals changed across time over the course of each task iteration and in relation to previous points. Our results showed that learners’ task performance demonstrated nonlinearity, stability, and variability with meaningfully different effects on individual and group‐level development over time.
Divergent Communities of Marine Nematodes in Impacted Beaches of Bandar Abbas (Iran)
Authors: Sahraeian Narjes , Riera Rodrigo , Mantha Gopikrishna , Sahafi Homayoun Hosseinzadeh , Mosallanejad Hadi
Published: August 2024

Free‐living marine nematodes play crucial roles in the benthic ecosystem and serve as valuable bioindicators for monitoring environmental stress. We explore the community structure of free‐living marine nematodes in the beach ecosystem near Bandar Abbas port city of Iran. The research focused on assessing the impact of domestic and industrial influences during winter and summer seasons in 2018 and 2019. Three coastal locations, namely KhurGursuzan (KG), Power Plant (PP), and Resalat (RE), were sampled, with KG under domestic wastewater influence, PP characterized by industrial activities, and RE serving as the control site. A total of 41 nematode genera were identified during the study, and dominant genera varied across locations, namely, Daptonema, Sabatieria, Promonhystera, Ptycholaimellus, and Eleutherolaimus at KG; Spirinia, Chromadorina, Terschellingia, Eleutherolaimus, and Promonhystera at PP; and Oncholaimus, Pomponema, Viscosia, Ptycholaimellus, Daptonema, and Eleutherolaimus at RE. These dominant genera accounted for 80% of the total nematode community during the sampling periods. The study revealed significant differences in abundance and genus diversity among the sites, with pollution‐affected sites exhibiting the lowest nematode diversity. Sediment granulometry showed a positive correlation with genus diversity across the sites, and the structure of the nematode assemblage was negatively influenced by polychlorinated biphenyls and total organic matter. Surprisingly, the spatial patterns in nematode assemblage structure and diversity remained consistent across both studied years. These findings contribute to our understanding of marine ecosystem health and the role of free‐living nematodes as bioindicators in the Persian Gulf.
The ‘queen of the Andes’ (Puya raimondii) is genetically fragile and fragmented: a consequence of long generation time and semelparity?
Authors: Liu Lu , James Jennifer , Zhang Yu‐Qu , Wang Zheng‐Feng , Arakaki Mónica , Vadillo Giovana , Zhou Qiu‐Jie , Lascoux Martin , Ge Xue‐Jun
Published: August 2024

Understanding how life history shapes genetic diversity is a fundamental issue in evolutionary biology, with important consequences for conservation. However, we still have an incomplete picture of the impact of life history on genome‐wide patterns of diversity, especially in long‐lived semelparous plants.

Puya raimondii is a high‐altitude semelparous species from the Andes that flowers at 40–100 years of age. We sequenced the whole genome and estimated the nucleotide diversity of 200 individuals sampled from nine populations. Coalescent‐based approaches were then used to infer past population dynamics. Finally, these results were compared with results obtained for the iteroparous species, Puya macrura.

The nine populations of P. raimondii were highly divergent, highly inbred, and carried an exceptionally high genetic load. They are genetically depauperate, although, locally in the genome, balancing selection contributed to the maintenance of genetic polymorphism. While both P. raimondii and P. macrura went through a severe bottleneck during the Pleistocene, P. raimondii did not recover from it and continuously declined, while P. macrura managed to bounce back.

Our results demonstrate the importance of life history, in particular generation time and reproductive strategy, in affecting population dynamics and genomic variation, and illustrate the genetic fragility of long‐lived semelparous plants.
Diversity and functional differentiation of renewal buds in temperate herbaceous plants
Authors: Schnablová Renáta , Bartušková Alena , Horčičková Eva , Šmarda Petr , Klimešová Jitka , Herben Tomáš
Published: August 2024

Spring regrowth in temperate perennials relies on renewal buds, which form a key component in the shoot growth cycle. Still, we possess almost no information on these renewal buds, which is becoming more pressing with the current climate change. Most existing studies concentrated on easy‐to‐study aboveground buds of woody plants, whose morphology has largely been linked to frost protection. It is not clear to what extent these findings apply also to herbaceous species.

We therefore examined protective traits and preformation of winter renewal buds in 379 species of temperate herbs, and tested how these traits are distributed across the phylogeny and related to other bud bank and whole‐plant traits.

We identified a major gradient from few, large, highly preformed, scale‐covered buds associated with larger belowground storage organs deep in the soil, to small, numerous, less preformed, and naked buds near the soil surface.

Belowground renewal buds of temperate herbs show several distinct strategies for winter survival and spring regrowth that might affect their response to changing winter and early spring conditions. Renewal bud traits are driven not only by frost protection but also by protection of the apical meristem from mechanical disturbance in the soil.
Transport of water to leaves implies whole‐plant coordination of hydraulic and photosynthetic traits
Authors: Macinnis‐Ng Cate
Published: August 2024

This article is a Commentary on Chhajed et al. (2024), 244: 1760–1774.
Identification and expression analysis of Phosphate Transporter 1 (PHT1) genes in the highly phosphorus‐use‐efficient Hakea prostrata (Proteaceae)
Authors: Nestor Benjamin J. , Bird Toby , Severn‐Ellis Anita A. , Bayer Philipp E. , Ranathunge Kosala , Prodhan M. Asaduzzaman , Dassanayake Maheshi , Batley Jacqueline , Edwards David , Lambers Hans , Finnegan Patrick M.
Published: August 2024

Heavy and costly use of phosphorus (P) fertiliser is often needed to achieve high crop yields, but only a small amount of applied P fertiliser is available to most crop plants. Hakea prostrata (Proteaceae) is endemic to the P‐impoverished landscape of southwest Australia and has several P‐saving traits. We identified 16 members of the Phosphate Transporter 1 (PHT1) gene family (HpPHT1;1‐HpPHT1;12d) in a long‐read genome assembly of H. prostrata. Based on phylogenetics, sequence structure and expression patterns, we classified HpPHT1;1 as potentially involved in Pi uptake from soil and HpPHT1;8 and HpPHT1;9 as potentially involved in Pi uptake and root‐to‐shoot translocation. Three genes, HpPHT1;4, HpPHT1;6 and HpPHT1;8, lacked regulatory PHR1‐binding sites (P1BS) in the promoter regions. Available expression data for HpPHT1;6 and HpPHT1;8 indicated they are not responsive to changes in P supply, potentially contributing to the high P sensitivity of H. prostrata. We also discovered a Proteaceae‐specific clade of closely‐spaced PHT1 genes that lacked conserved genetic architecture among genera, indicating an evolutionary hot spot within the genome. Overall, the genome assembly of H. prostrata provides a much‐needed foundation for understanding the genetic mechanisms of novel adaptations to low P soils in southwest Australian plants.
Exploring allelochemicals for cleaner and sustainable agriculture: A bibliometric review on research trends, challenges and future prospective
Authors: Bamal Deepika , Duhan Anil , Beniwal Ravi Kumar , Sindhu Jayant , Kumawat Priyanka , Pal Ajay , Dhanda Sachin , Goyat Ankit , Hooda Virender Singh , Rajpaul
Published: August 2024

Allelopathic research is not getting the intended consideration because of the complexities involved in their isolation, identification, understanding their modes of action, interactions with other environmental factors, impacts on non‐target organisms and exploration of their utility in diverse fields. Additionally, their variability and trace availability have presented hurdles in establishing future research utilities and their field applications. Exploring the historical context of allelopathic research is essential for obtaining a more profound understanding of the progression in this research domain and to identify the research gaps and potential future prospectives. Therefore, the current bibliometric review aims to examine the research advancements, trends, hotspots, research gaps and to identify future prospectives in allelopathic research. A Scopus database search was carried out to collect the bibliometric data using the combination of multiple search strings in advance search option. The outcomes of this study revealed a total of 5427 published articles, with an average of 19.12 citations per article. Despite the increasing trend in research and publications on allelopathy/allelochemicals over the last decade, the majority of allelopathic research remains focused on investigating novel allelochemicals and their potential for weed management. Other crucial considerations like their phytotoxicity and ecotoxicity, selectivity for crop growth, interactions with herbicides and their derivatives, biochemical signalling, identification of germplasm in allelopathic plants, inducing allelopathic trait into enhanced cultivars, their ultimate fate in the open environment are sparsely investigated. It is anticipated that this review will draw greater attention to some overlooked domains within allelopathic research.
Entrapment in the military context: Factor structure and associations with suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Authors: Baker Justin C. , Cacace Sam , Cramer Robert J. , Rasmussen Susan , Martin Christiana , May Alexis M. , Thomsen Cynthia , Bryan AnnaBelle O. , Bryan Craig J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Improved understanding of how US service members transition from chronic/baseline to acute suicide risk is warranted. One such model, the Integrated Motivational Volitional Model of Suicide, posits entrapment as central to this process. However, entrapment has not been extensively investigated within military populations.

Methods

This study examines the factor structure, reliability, and predictive validity of the Entrapment Scale (E‐Scale) within a military population. Exploratory structural equation modeling (SEM) and confirmatory factor analysis compared one‐ versus two‐factor structures of the E‐Scale. Autoregressive SEM assessed if E‐Scale scores predicted suicidal ideation and suicide attempt likelihood at 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up, and examined whether the impact of entrapment was moderated by social support (i.e., appraisal, tangible, and belonging).

Results

Results favored a two‐factor solution (external and internal) of entrapment. The relationship between entrapment and suicide outcomes was moderated by perceived social support but in unexpected directions. Unexpectedly, social support strengthened the relationship between external entrapment and suicide outcomes for most models. Only tangible support moderated the relationship between internal entrapment (IE) and suicide outcomes as predicted.

Conclusions

IE is linked with suicidal ideation in the short‐term, whereas external entrapments relationship with suicide outcomes may reflect more persistent social challenges for military members.
Basosquamous carcinoma: Comprehensive epidemiological, clinical, dermoscopic, and confocal features from a single center institution
Authors: Venturi Federico , Erbacci Valentina , Veronesi Giulia , Scotti Biagio , Baraldi Carlotta , Dika Emi
Published: August 2024

Background

Basosquamous carcinoma (BSC) is a rare and aggressive nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) that exhibits features of both BCC and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The gold standard for diagnosis is histopathological examination. BSC is often challenging to diagnose and manage due to its mixed histological features and potential for aggressive behavior

Aim

To identify specific features aiding clinicians in differentiating BSCs using non‐invasive diagnostic techniques.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive, monocentric study of the epidemiological clinical, dermoscopic, and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) features of histopathologically proven BSCs diagnosed between 2010 and 2023. A total of 192 cases were selected.

Results

The study population consisted of 17 men (60.9%). Total 95.8% of patients at the time of diagnosis were ≥50 years. BSC occurred in the head and neck area in 124 cases (63.1%) of which 65 (33.9%) were in the H‐zone. For 47.4% of patients, BSC presented as a macule with undefined clinical margins (43.3%). Dermoscopic images were available for 98 cases: the most common parameter was the presence of whitish structureless areas (59 [60.2%]), keratin masses (58 [59.2%]), superficial scales, and ulceration or blood crusts (49 [50%] both). Vessels pattern analysis revealed hairpin vessels (exclusively) and linear irregular vessels as the most frequent (55 [56.1%] both). RCM examination was performed in 21 cases which revealed specific SCC features such as solar elastosis (19 [90.5%]), atypical honeycomb pattern (17 [89%]), proliferation of atypical keratinocytes (16 [80%]) combined with BCC’ ones as bright tumor islands (12 [57.8%]), and cleft‐like dark spaces (11 [53.4%]).

Discussion

Our study reflects the largest cohort of BSCs from a single institution. We described an incidence rate of 4.7%, higher than reported in the Literature, with the involvement of patients ≥50years in almost 96% of cases and an overall male predominance. At clinical examination, BSC was described as a hyperkeratotic macule with undefined clinical margins with one or more dermoscopic SCC’ features, whereas the presence of typical BCC aspects was observed in less than 10% of cases, differently from what was previously reported. At RCM analysis, BSCs presented with an atypical honeycomb pattern with proliferation of atypical keratinocytes, hyperkeratosis, and in nearly 55% of patients, bright tumor islands with cleft‐like dark spaces.

Conclusion

The distinctive dermoscopic patterns, along with the RCM features aid in the differentiation of BSCs from other NMSCs.
Novel intervention based on an individualized bundle of care to decrease infection in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: de Jorge‐Huerta Lucía , Silva José Tiago , Fernández‐Ruiz Mario , Rodríguez‐Goncer Isabel , Pérez‐Jacoiste Asín M. Asunción , Ruiz‐Merlo Tamara , Heredia‐Mena Carlos , González‐Monte Esther , Polanco Natalia , San Juan Rafael , Andrés Amado , Aguado José María , López‐Medrano Francisco
Published: August 2024

Background

Infection remains a relevant complication after kidney transplantation (KT). A well‐established strategy in modern medicine is the application of bundles of evidence‐based practice in clinical settings. The objective of this study is to explore the application of a personalized bundle of measures aimed to reduce the incidence of infection in the first 12 months after KT.

Methods

A single‐center prospective cohort of 148 patients undergoing KT between February 2018 and September 2019 that received an individualized infection prevention strategy was compared to a preintervention cohort (n = 159). The bundle comprised a review of the patient's immunization history, infection risk by country of origin, screening for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), antimicrobial prophylaxis, and immunological assessment. Individualized recommendations were accordingly provided at a scheduled visit at day +30 after transplantation.

Results

The intervention cohort showed a higher compliance rate with the recommended vaccine schedule, screening for geographically restricted infections and LTBI, and intravenous immunoglobulin and vitamin D supplementation (p values <.001). The 1‐year incidence rate of infection was lower in the intervention cohort (42.6% vs. 57.9%; p value = .037), as was the rate of infection‐related hospitalization (17.6% vs. 32.1%; p value = .003) and the incidence of severe bacterial infection. There were no differences in graft rejection or mortality rates between groups.

Conclusions

A multifaceted intervention, including a bundle of evidence‐based practices, enhanced compliance with recommended preventive measures and was correlated with a reduction in the 12‐month incidence of infection after KT.

image
OsHAK4 functions in retrieving sodium from the phloem at the reproductive stage of rice
Authors: Che Jing , Yamaji Naoki , Wang Shao Fei , Xia Yue , Yang Shun Ying , Su Yan Hua , Shen Ren Fang , Ma Jian Feng
Published: August 2024

Soil salinity significantly limits rice productivity, but it is poorly understood how excess sodium (Na+) is delivered to the grains at the reproductive stage. Here, we functionally characterized OsHAK4, a member of the clade IV HAK/KUP/KT transporter subfamily in rice. OsHAK4 was localized to the plasma membrane and exhibited influx transport activity for Na+, but not for K+. Analysis of organ‐ and growth stage‐dependent expression patterns showed that very low expression levels of OsHAK4 were detected at the vegetative growth stage, but its high expression in uppermost node I, peduncle, and rachis was found at the reproductive stage. Immunostaining indicated OsHAK4 localization in the phloem region of node I, peduncle, and rachis. Knockout of OsHAK4 did not affect the growth and Na+ accumulation at the vegetative stage. However, at the reproductive stage, the hak4 mutants accumulated higher Na+ in the peduncle, rachis, husk, and brown rice compared to the wild‐type rice. Element imaging revealed higher Na+ accumulation at the phloem region of the peduncle in the mutants. These results indicate that OsHAK4 plays a crucial role in retrieving Na+ from the phloem in the upper nodes, peduncle, and rachis, thereby preventing Na+ distribution to the grains at the reproductive stage of rice.