bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combinatorial transcriptomic and genetic dissection of insulin/IGF‐1 signaling‐regulated longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Ham Seokjin , Kim Sieun S. , Park Sangsoon , Kwon Hyunwoo C. , Ha Seokjun G. , Bae Yunkyu , Lee Gee‐Yoon , Lee Seung‐Jae V.
Published: March 2024

Classical genetic analysis is invaluable for understanding the genetic interactions underlying specific phenotypes, but requires laborious and subjective experiments to characterize polygenic and quantitative traits. Contrarily, transcriptomic analysis enables the simultaneous and objective identification of multiple genes whose expression changes are associated with specific phenotypes. Here, we conducted transcriptomic analysis of genes crucial for longevity using datasets with daf‐2/insulin/IGF‐1 receptor mutant Caenorhabditis elegans. Our analysis unraveled multiple epistatic relationships at the transcriptomic level, in addition to verifying genetically established interactions. Our combinatorial analysis also revealed transcriptomic changes associated with longevity conferred by daf‐2 mutations. In particular, we demonstrated that the extent of lifespan changes caused by various mutant alleles of the longevity transcription factor daf‐16/FOXO matched their effects on transcriptomic changes in daf‐2 mutants. We identified specific aging‐regulating signaling pathways and subsets of structural and functional RNA elements altered by different genes in daf‐2 mutants. Lastly, we elucidated the functional cooperation between several longevity regulators, based on the combination of transcriptomic and molecular genetic analysis. These data suggest that different biological processes coordinately exert their effects on longevity in biological networks. Together our work demonstrates the utility of transcriptomic dissection analysis for identifying important genetic interactions for physiological processes, including aging and longevity.
Can a health warning label diminish the persuasive effects of health‐oriented nutrition advertising on ready‐to‐drink alcohol product packaging? A randomized experiment
Authors: Hobin Erin , Thielman Justin , Forbes Samantha M. , Poon Theresa , Bélanger‐Gravel Ariane , Demers‐Potvin Élisabeth , Haynes Ashleigh , Li Ye , Niquette Manon , Paradis Catherine , Provencher Véronique , Smith Brendan T. , Wells Samantha , Atkinson Amanda , Vanderlee Lana
Published: March 2024

Background and aims

A health warning label (HWL) cautioning about the link between alcohol and cancer may be able to communicate alcohol risks to consumers and potentially counter health‐oriented nutrition advertising on ready‐to‐drink alcoholic beverages. This study aimed to examine the independent and combined effects of nutrient content claims (e.g. 0 g sugar) and a HWL on perceived product characteristics and intentions to consume, and whether these effects differed by gender and age.

Design

A between‐subjects randomized experiment. Participants were randomized to view one of six experimental label conditions: nutrient content claims plus nutrition declaration (NCC + ND), ND only, NCC + ND + HWL, ND + HWL, HWL only and no NCC, ND or HWL, all on a ready‐to‐drink (RTD) vodka‐based soda container.

Setting and participants

Alcohol consumers (n = 5063; 52% women) in Canada aged 18–64 recruited through a national online panel.

Measurements

Participants completed ratings of perceived product characteristics, perceived product health risks, and intentions to try, buy, binge and drink the product.

Findings

Compared with the reference condition NCC + ND (current policy scenario in Canada), the other five experimental label conditions were associated with lower ratings for perceiving the product as healthy. All experimental conditions with a HWL were associated with lower product appeal, higher risk perceptions and reduced intentions to try, buy and binge. The experimental condition with a HWL only was associated with intentions to consume fewer cans in the next 7 days (β = −0.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.37,−0.08) versus the reference. Few interactions were observed, suggesting that label effects on outcomes were similar by gender and age.

Conclusions

Health warning labels on alcohol packaging appear to be associated with lower product appeal, higher perceived health risks and reduced consumption intentions, even in the presence of nutrient content claims.
Anatomy and histology of the male reproductive tract of the parasitoid wasp Hymenoepimecis bicolor (Brullé, 1846) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Silva Laryssa Lemos , Cossolin Jamile Fernanda Silva , Kloss Thiago Gechel , Alvim Jessica Roberta Lacerda , Reis Aline Beatriz , Zanuncio José Cola , Castro Bárbara Monteiro de Castro e , Serrão José Eduardo
Published: March 2024

Hymenoepimecis wasps (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) are ectoparasitoids of spiders that modify the hosts’ behaviour by inducing changes in webs. Variations in the male reproductive tract contribute to enhancing our understanding of the reproductive behaviour of these insects. This study describes the morphology of the male reproductive tract of Hymenoepimecis bicolor (Brullé, 1846) using light microscope. The male reproductive tract of H. bicolor consists of a pair of testes, each containing a single follicle, two vasa deferentia, one ejaculatory duct and two accessory glands. The testis follicle has cysts at various stages of spermatogenesis, indicating ongoing sperm cell development and maturation. The vasa deferentia are elongated, with a coiled distal portion, whereas the proximal regions are laterally associated with a pair of accessory glands. The wall of the vasa deferentia has simple cuboidal epithelium. The accessory glands had a simple columnar epithelium with the lumen filled with heterogeneous content. The seminal vesicle is absent. The similarity in the anatomy and histology of the male reproductive tract of H. bicolor with other Hymenoptera suggests that the parasitoid behaviour does not result in significant alteration to their reproductive organs, indicating that the reproductive tract is conserved in Hymenoptera, regardless of their behaviours.
The importance of ABO in platelet refractoriness, an often overlooked option
Authors: Gammon Richard , Mo Allison
Published: March 2024

ABO‐non‐identical (ni) platelets provide less of an increase in platelet count and may increase the length of patient transfusions. The paper by Han and Badami showed that ABO‐ni platelets may be a risk factor for immune platelet transfusion refractoriness.

Commentary on: Han et al. ABO non‐identical platelet transfusions, immune platelet refractoriness and platelet support. Br J Haematol 2024;204:2097‐2102.
Minimal CompositionalityversusBird Implicatures: two theories ofABC‐Dsequences in Japanese tits
Authors: Schlenker Philippe , Salis Ambre , Leroux Maël , Coye Camille , Rizzi Luigi , Steinert‐Threlkeld Shane , Chemla Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

It was argued in a series of experimental studies that Japanese tits (Parus minor) have an ABC call that has an alert function, a D call that has a recruitment function, and an ABC‐D call that is compositionally derived from ABC and D, and has a mobbing function. A key conclusion was that ABC‐D differs from the combination of separate utterances of ABC and of D (e.g. as played by distinct but close loudspeakers). While the logic of the argument is arguably sound, no explicit rule has been proposed to derive the meaning of ABC‐D from that of its parts. We compare two analyses. One posits a limited instance of semantic compositionality (‘Minimal Compositionality’); the other does without compositionality, but uses instead a more sophisticated pragmatics (‘Bird Implicatures’). Minimal Compositionality takes the composition of ABC and D to deviate only minimally from what would be found with two independent utterances: ABC means that ‘there is something that licenses an alert’, D means that ‘there is something that licenses recruitment’, and ABC‐D means that ‘there is something that licenses both an alert and recruitment’. By contrast, ABC and D as independent utterances yield something weaker, namely: ‘there is something that licenses an alert, and there is something that licenses recruitment’, without any ‘binding’ across the two utterances. The second theory, Bird Implicatures, only requires that ABC‐D should be more informative than ABC, and/or than D. It builds on the idea, proposed for several monkey species, that a less‐informative call competes with a more informative one (the ‘Informativity Principle’): when produced alone, ABC and D trigger an inference that ABC‐D is false. We explain how both Minimal Compositionality and Bird Implicatures could have evolved, and we compare the predictions of the two theories. Finally, we extend the discussion to some chimpanzee and meerkat sequences that might raise related theoretical problems.
The role of conflict and idea acceptance on the relationship between feedback and team creative behaviour
Authors: Akaki Mayu , Maeno Takashi
Published: March 2024

This study indicated the role of conflict and idea acceptance on the relationship between feedback and team creative behaviour. We focused on the team's contextual factors affecting team creative behaviour instead of the behaviour of individuals between the specific hierarchical level in the organizations. We surveyed 535 practitioners in Japanese firms and quantitatively examined the result through hierarchical multiple regression analysis. The results show the positive direct effect of feedback on team creative behaviour and the mediation effects of conflict and idea acceptance on the relationship between feedback and team creative behaviour, which were identified regardless of the creative process. On the other hand, conflict negatively moderated the feedback‐team creative behaviour relationship only in the idea‐generation phase. This study contributes to team creativity studies by clarifying the effect of conflict, which had contradictory findings in the previous research. In addition, shedding light on idea acceptance within the teams is another contribution since limited studies are focusing on it. The results offer implications to practitioners by giving suggestions to effectively provide and react to feedback within the teams by managing conflicts that have both positive and negative effects on creativity and accepting each other's ideas, which move the idea forward.
Microsatellite instability: A 2024 update
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Arai Hiroyuki , Umemoto Kumiko , Tateishi Keisuke , Sunakawa Yu
Published: March 2024

Deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) results in microsatellite instability (MSI), a pronounced mutator phenotype. High‐frequency MSI (MSI‐H)/dMMR is gaining increasing interest as a biomarker for advanced cancer patients to determine their eligibility for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Various methods based on next‐generation sequencing (NGS) have been developed to assess the MSI status. Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) testing can precisely ascertain the MSI status as well as genomic alterations in a single NGS test. The MSI status can be also ascertained through the liquid biopsy‐based CGP assays. MSI‐H has thus been identified in various classes of tumors, resulting in a greater adoption of immunotherapy, which is hypothesized to be effective against malignancies that possess a substantial number of mutations and/or neoantigens. NGS‐based studies have also characterized MSI‐driven carcinogenesis, including significant rates of fusion kinases in colorectal cancers (CRCs) with MSI‐H that are targets for therapeutic kinase inhibitors, particularly in MLH1‐methylated CRCs with wild‐type KRAS/BRAF. NTRK fusion is linked to the colorectal serrated neoplasia pathway. Recent advances in investigations of MSI‐H malignancies have resulted in the development of novel diagnostic or therapeutic techniques, such as a synthetic lethal therapy that targets the Werner gene. DNA sensing in cancer cells is required for antitumor immunity induced by dMMR, opening up novel avenues and biomarkers for immunotherapy. Therefore, clinical relevance exists for analyses of MSI and MSI‐H‐associated genomic alterations in malignancy. In this article, we provide an update on MSI‐driven carcinogenesis, with an emphasis on unique landscapes of diagnostic and immunotherapeutic strategies.
Novel copy number variations and phenotypes of infantile epileptic spasms syndrome
Authors: Cheng Miaomiao , Bai Ling , Yang Ying , Liu Wenwei , Niu Xueyang , Chen Yi , Tan Quanzhen , Yang Xiaoling , Wu Qixi , Zhao Han‐Qing , Zhang Yuehua
Published: March 2024

We summarize the copy number variations (CNVs) and phenotype spectrum of infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) in a Chinese cohort. The CNVs were identified by genomic copy number variation sequencing. The CNVs and clinical data were analyzed. 74 IESS children with CNVs were enrolled. 35 kinds of CNVs were identified. There were 11 deletions and 5 duplications not reported previously in IESS, including 2 CNVs not reported in epilepsy. 87.8% were de novo, 9.5% were inherited from mother and 2.7% from father. Mosaicism occurred in one patient with Xq21.31q25 duplication. 16.2% (12/74) were 1p36 deletion, and 20.3% (15/74) were 15q11‐q13 duplication. The age of seizure onset ranged from 17 days to 24 months. Seizure types included epileptic spasms, focal seizures, tonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures. All patients displayed developmental delay. Additional features included craniofacial anomaly, microcephaly, congenital heart defects, and hemangioma. 29.7% of patients were seizure‐free for more than 12 months, and 70.3% still had seizures after trying 2 or more anti‐seizure medications. In conclusion, CNVs is a prominent etiology of IESS. 1p36 deletion and 15q duplication occurred most frequently. CNV detection should be performed in patients with IESS of unknown causes, especially in children with craniofacial anomalies and microcephaly.
Morphometric similarity differences in drug‐naive Parkinson's disease correlate with transcriptomic signatures
Authors: Wang Yajie , Xiao Yiwen , Xing Yi , Yu Miao , Wang Xiao , Ren Jingru , Liu Weiguo , Zhong Yuan
Published: March 2024

Background

Differences in cortical morphology have been reported in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the pathophysiological mechanism of transcriptomic vulnerability in local brain regions remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to characterize the morphometric changes of brain regions in early drug‐naive PD patients and uncover the brain‐wide gene expression correlates.

Methods

The morphometric similarity (MS) network analysis was used to quantify the interregional structural similarity from multiple magnetic resonance imaging anatomical indices measured in each brain region of 170 early drug‐naive PD patients and 123 controls. Then, we applied partial least squares regression to determine the relationship between regional changes in MS and spatial transcriptional signatures from the Allen Human Brain Atlas dataset, and identified the specific genes related to MS differences in PD. We further investigated the biological processes by which the PD‐related genes were enriched and the cellular characterization of these genes.

Results

Our results showed that MS was mainly decreased in cingulate, frontal, and temporal cortical areas and increased in parietal and occipital cortical areas in early drug‐naive PD patients. In addition, genes whose expression patterns were associated with regional MS changes in PD were involved in astrocytes, excitatory, and inhibitory neurons and were functionally enriched in neuron‐specific biological processes related to trans‐synaptic signaling and nervous system development.

Conclusions

These findings advance our understanding of the microscale genetic and cellular mechanisms driving macroscale morphological abnormalities in early drug‐naive PD patients and provide potential targets for future therapeutic trials.
Radiotherapy to the neck after neck dissection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from an unknown primary: A narrative review
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Jackson Malcolm , Paterson Claire
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To conduct a comprehensive narrative review of the evidence for radiotherapy target volumes to the neck, after neck dissection, for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from an unknown primary (HNSCCUP). Inclusion or exclusion of mucosal irradiation is not the focus of interest for this review article.

Materials and Methods

Literature (PubMed‐Medline, EMBASE database and Cochrane library) was searched using the relevant keywords. The search results were limited to the studies published in year 2000 or after.

Results

Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies were retrospective in nature. The incidence of contralateral recurrence rates in the untreated neck when the involved neck only is treated remains very low (0%–10%). Survival has improved over the past two decades, most likely due to improved diagnostic techniques and the increase in incidence of HPV‐related disease.

Conclusion

Given the rarity of disease, level one evidence from randomised controlled trials is lacking. Available data are retrospective but support unilateral post‐operative radiotherapy as a treatment option in selected cases.
A rare case of cutaneous granular cell tumor with unusual Melan‐A expression in a child
Authors: Cheng Nina H. , Smith David , Errickson Carla , Ashi Shaymaa
Published: March 2024

Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are rare, indolent neoplasms classically characterized by eosinophilic granular cytoplasm, infiltrations of polygonal cells in the collagenous stroma, and pustulo‐ovoid bodies of Milian. We describe a case of a 10‐year‐old female presenting with a GCT of the upper arm, remarkable for positive Melan‐A expression without additional melanocytic features. The differentiation between granular cells versus melanocytic neoplasms carries significant implications for clinical management, and such diagnoses should be considered carefully in the setting of unusual immunophenotypes.
Predicting mean and variance in inventory order decisions
Authors: Chen Li , Davis Andrew M. , Kim Dayoung
Published: March 2024

We develop a simple forecast‐anchoring model to explain and predict the mean and variance of observed inventory order decisions in a newsvendor problem. The model assumes that people employ a two‐step decision heuristic. In the first step, a behavioral bias may gravitate the decision maker's point forecast toward a random forecast versus a constant unbiased forecast. In the second step, a behavioral bias of the same magnitude may cause the decision maker to treat the point forecast as if it is the mean of potential demand, and then make an upward or downward adjustment depending on the underage and overage costs. We evaluate the performance of this descriptive forecast‐anchoring model across five experimental newsvendor data sets. First, we fit the model to a setting with uniform demand. We then use the corresponding estimates to generate predictions in a secondary data set with uniform demand, as an out‐of‐sample test. We proceed to fit the model to three additional newsvendor data sets, two with normal demand and one with asymmetric two‐point demand. In all cases, the model predicts the mean and variance of inventory order decisions well. We further investigate the profit implications under the forecast‐anchoring model and find that the predictions match well with the experimental data. Through improved predictions, the model can help upstream supply chain parties anticipate inventory order decisions from buyers and improve profitability.
The effect of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists on cardiac function and structure in patients with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yang Danning , Jia Qiufeng , Yan Jie , An Fengshuang
Published: March 2024

Aims

To conduct an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the efficacy of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) with regard to cardiac function and structure in people with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

We conducted a systematic search using the PubMed, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov online databases. The primary outcome of interest was changes in mitral inflow E‐velocity to tissue Doppler e' velocity (E/e') ratio. Secondary outcomes included other indicators of cardiac reverse remodelling and functional capacity comprising changes in left ventricular mass (LVM), left ventricular global longitudinal strain, left ventricular end‐diastolic volume, left ventricular end‐systolic volume, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), early to atrial mitral inflow velocity ratio, left atrial volume (LAV), N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels and 6‐min walk test (6MWT) results.

Results

A total of 15 trials involving 898 patients were included in this analysis. GLP‐1RAs significantly improved E/e' ratio (mean difference [MD] = −0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] −1.34, −0.13), LVM (MD = −3.86 g; 95% CI −7.60, −0.12), LAV (MD = −8.20 mL; 95% CI −12.37, −4.04), NT‐proBNP level (standardized MD = −0.27; 95% CI −0.47, −0.06), and 6MWT result (MD = +22.31 m; 95% CI 1.64, 42.99). However, GLP‐1RAs had no effect on LVEF (MD = +0.31%; 95% CI −1.02, 1.64).

Conclusions

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, GLP‐1RAs were found to have a positive impact on left ventricle diastolic function, hypertrophy, and exercise capacity, but had no effect on systolic function.
Mitophagy modulation for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Forte Maurizio , D'Ambrosio Luca , Schiattarella Gabriele G. , Salerno Nadia , Perrone Marco Alfonso , Loffredo Francesco S. , Bertero Edoardo , Pilichou Kalliopi , Manno Girolamo , Valenti Valentina , Spadafora Luigi , Bernardi Marco , Simeone Beatrice , Sarto Gianmarco , Frati Giacomo , Perrino Cinzia , Sciarretta Sebastiano ,   the Italian Society of Cardiology Working Group on Cellular and Molecular Biology of the Heart
Published: March 2024

Background

Defects of mitophagy, the selective form of autophagy for mitochondria, are commonly observed in several cardiovascular diseases and represent the main cause of mitochondrial dysfunction. For this reason, mitophagy has emerged as a novel and potential therapeutic target.

Methods

In this review, we discuss current evidence about the biological significance of mitophagy in relevant preclinical models of cardiac and vascular diseases, such as heart failure, ischemia/reperfusion injury, metabolic cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis.

Results

Multiple studies have shown that cardiac and vascular mitophagy is an adaptive mechanism in response to stress, contributing to cardiovascular homeostasis. Mitophagy defects lead to cell death, ultimately impairing cardiac and vascular function, whereas restoration of mitophagy by specific compounds delays disease progression.

Conclusions

Despite previous efforts, the molecular mechanisms underlying mitophagy activation in response to stress are not fully characterized. A comprehensive understanding of different forms of mitophagy active in the cardiovascular system is extremely important for the development of new drugs targeting this process. Human studies evaluating mitophagy abnormalities in patients at high cardiovascular risk also represent a future challenge.
What do fish do after passing through a fishway? A radio‐telemetry study on patrimonial holobiotic species
Authors: Gelder Justine , Benitez Jean‐Philippe , Ovidio Michaël
Published: March 2024

The restoration of longitudinal connectivity in rivers allows fish to colonise new habitats. However, there is a lack of information regarding the behaviour of fish when they colonise the newly opened river stretch. We used manual radiotelemetry to tracked individuals belonging to four species (trout, nase, grayling and barbel) after their release upstream of two obstacles in the Amblève River. We observed a diversity of movement behaviours and habitats used among the studied species. All the species used potential spawning habitats with distances travelled upstream reaching 2.4 km for the grayling, 7.0 km for the barbel, 16.9 km for the nase and 18.0 km for the trout, which also use tributaries and sub‐tributaries of the Amblève River. Post‐reproduction downstream behaviours were observed in all species, but this was made difficult by the absence of downstream migration devices at dams that forced fish to seek alternative habitats. Our study suggested that allowing fish to move upstream with fishways is beneficial as the species succeeded in reaching spawning grounds, but a holistic approach combined with the installations of devices or an opening of gates to allow post‐reproduction downstream migrations would allow them to completely accomplish their biological cycle.
AXCF: Aspect‐based collaborative filtering for explainable recommendations
Authors: Kim Dongeon , Li Qinglong , Jang Dongsoo , Kim Jaekyeong
Published: March 2024

With the rapid growth of the e‐commerce market facilitated, users are often overwhelmed by the excessive online information, making item selection challenging. While recommendation services have significantly enhanced user experience and sales, these traditional models often overlook the complexity of user‐item interactions and user preferences based on various item aspects. The proposed AXCF framework innovatively combines graph‐based collaborative filtering (CF), which captures high‐order connectivity between users and items, with aspect‐based sentiment analysis (ABSA) to extract detailed user preferences from online reviews. This approach addresses the limitations of linear relationships in traditional CF models by incorporating deep neural networks and introduces a method to overcome the cold‐start problem using online reviews as auxiliary information. By focusing on main aspects such as food, ambiance, and service derived from restaurant reviews, AXCF provides personalized recommendations with improved accuracy and explanatory power, demonstrating its superiority over existing models through experimental results. This study not only presents a significant advancement in recommender systems but also highlights the importance of high‐order connectivity and aspect‐based preferences in understanding and catering to user needs in the e‐commerce platform.
Associations between measured masticatory function and cognitive status: A systematic review
Authors: Maekawa Kenji , Motohashi Yoshiko , Igarashi Kentaro , Mino Takuya , Kawai Yasuhiko , Kang Youngnam , Hirai Toshihiro , Kuboki Takuo
Published: March 2024

Objective

This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of the most recent evidence on the association between measured masticatory function and cognitive status.

Materials and Methods

Literature and manual searches were conducted using three electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL). Observational studies published between 2011 and 2021 investigating the association between masticatory function, dementia and cognitive status in adult humans were abstracted and reviewed by three reviewers. Studies that assessed participants' masticatory function using objective and subjective measurements and that individually examined its association with cognitive function were included. The included studies were divided into cross‐sectional and cohort studies, and the quality of each study was analysed using critical appraisal skills checklists. Additionally, the main conclusions and strength of the evidence were assessed for each article.

Results

A total of 21 studies (11 cross‐sectional studies that objectively evaluated masticatory function, 9 cross‐sectional studies that subjectively evaluated masticatory function and 1 prospective cohort study) were evaluated. The poorer masticatory function was associated with lower cognitive status even after adjusting for potential risk factors of dementia in four of 11 and six of nine cross‐sectional studies where the masticatory function was respectively evaluated objectively and subjectively. One prospective cohort study also demonstrated that masticatory function, as evaluated based on measurements of occlusal force, predicted cognitive decline during the follow‐up period.

Conclusion

Several studies demonstrated a positive association between masticatory function and cognitive status. However, further studies, particularly longitudinal studies, are required to determine whether the association is causal.
X‐Ray Fluorescence Determination of FeII/Fetotal Ratios in Sediments and Soils
Authors: Pleßow Alexander , Mehne Marcel , Kureti Sven
Published: March 2024

The two most common oxidation states of iron can be determined by wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry relatively fast with an accuracy comparable to that of alternative methods. Main advantages for the analysis of sediments and soils are that organic matter does not interfere and solid samples can be analysed directly with minimal preparation effort. The limited availability of appropriate reference materials with certified data on their ferrous iron content turned out to be the major obstacle to implementing the method. For this reason and because no influence of the analysed geological materials on the intensity ratios of the closely adjacent Fe Kβ5 / Fe Kβ1,3 lines became evident, several rock types were selected in addition to sediments and soils to broaden and improve the calibration. Nevertheless, most reference data for calibration had to be determined by 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy. Plotting Fe Kβ5/Fe Kβ1,3 intensity ratios versus w FeO/w Fe2O3total ratios resulted in a correlation with R2 = 0.962 for the linear regression of all calibration data.
Middle‐aged migrants: Expanding an understanding of lifecourses and linked lives
Authors: Lulle Aija
Published: March 2024

This paper explores a new perspective on middle‐aged migrant women. Midlife has long been presumed to be the most networked stage of life for sedentary populations, but it has not been examined critically in the context of migration. This is an empty space that warrants research attention, because middle‐aged migrants often have lives that are temporally and spatially distinctive. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in Latvia and the United Kingdom (2018–2023), I argue that the lifecourses of middle‐aged migrant women resemble the transitions that young people go through for work but differ in terms of care. Although strong ties relatives and friends have long been thought to be key for transnational care relations, weak ties also become instrumental through shared notions of self‐actualization in midlife. I provide a novel understanding of how the concepts of linked lives and networks can be applied to processes that are pertinent to middle‐aged women.
Changes in brain proteasome dynamics associated with aging
Authors: Nago Nodoka , Murata Shigeo , Tanaka Keiji , Tanahashi Nobuyuki
Published: March 2024

In the nervous system, proteasomes are important for proteolysis and cellular homeostasis of neurons and glial cells and for brain health. Proteasome function declines with age in many tissues, including the nervous system, and this decline affects many of the nervous system processes important to brain health and may be related to age‐related cognitive decline. Therefore, we analyzed the factors that contribute to this decline in function using the brain of mice from different months of life. Peptidase activity of proteasomes in crude extracts decreased with aging, while ubiquitinated proteins increased with aging. Additionally, there was a tendency for the number of subunits that form proteasomes to decrease slightly with age. On the other hand, ump1, which is required for proteasome formation, accumulated with age. Therefore, analysis of proteasome dynamics in each month revealed that proteasome formation decreased with aging. This study suggests that with aging, not only 20S proteasome function but also 26 proteasome function decreases, the decline in proteasome function is due to the lack of proteasome formation, the PA28‐20S‐PA700 complex, which is involved in immunity, increases in the brain, and one factor in this lack of proteasome formation is that the proteins called UMP1.
Current and emerging gene therapies for haemophilia A and B
Authors: Kaczmarek Radoslaw , Miesbach Wolfgang , Ozelo Margareth C. , Chowdary Pratima
Published: March 2024

Introduction

After decades of stumbling clinical development, the first gene therapies for haemophilia A and B have been commercialized and have normalized factor (F)VIII and factor (F)IX levels in some individuals in the long term. Several other clinical programs testing adeno‐associated viral (AAV) vector gene therapy are at various stages of clinical testing.

Discussion

Multiyear follow‐up in phase 1/2 and 3 studies showed long‐term and sometimes curative but widely variable and unpredictable efficacy. Liver toxicities, mostly low‐grade, occur in the 1st year in at least some individuals in all haemophilia A and B trials and are poorly understood. Wide variability and unpredictability of outcome and slow decline of FVIII levels are a major disadvantage because immune responses to AAV vectors preclude repeat dosing, which otherwise could improve suboptimal or restore declining expression, while overexpression may predispose to thrombosis. Long‐term safety outcomes will need lifelong monitoring because AAV vectors infused at high doses integrate into chromosomes at rates that raise questions about potential oncogenicity and necessitate vigilance. Alternative gene transfer systems employing gene editing and/or non‐viral vectors are under development and promise to overcome some limitations of the current state of the art for both haemophilia A and B.

Conclusions

AAV gene therapies for haemophilia have now become new treatment options but not universal cures. AAV is a powerful but imperfect gene transfer platform. Biobetter FVIII transgenes may help solve some problems plaguing gene therapy for haemophilia A. Addressing variability and unpredictability of efficacy, and delivery of gene therapy to ineligible patient subgroups may require different gene transfer systems, most of which are not ready for clinical translation yet but bring innovations needed to overcome the current limitations of gene therapy.
Laboratory workflow for optimizing leukocyte count and differential in synovial fluids on Sysmex XN‐1000
Authors: Vanrenterghem Marthe , Dom Julie , Boeckx Nancy , Depypere Melissa , Frans Glynis , Vles Georges , Van Laer Christine
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Falsely elevated synovial white blood cell (WBC) counts using automated hematology analyzers have been reported particularly in the setting of joint arthroplasty. We evaluated the implementation of a laboratory workflow based on Sysmex XN‐1000‐automated cell counting and scattergram interpretation.

Methods

WBC and differential were measured for 76 synovial fluid samples (29 native joints and 47 with joint arthroplasties) with Sysmex XN‐1000 and manual methods. All scattergrams were evaluated for possible incorrect WBC and/or differential according to our implemented workflow. A specific finding was the “banana‐shape” scattergram, which indicates possible interferences. The European Bone & Joint Infection Society (EBJIS) criteria were applied to identify possible prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) in patients with joint arthroplasties.

Results

Correlation between automated and manual WBC counts, calculated for samples with WBC count <50 000/μL, was higher for native joints (r = 0.938) compared with patients known with arthroplasty (r = 0.906). Scattergrams classified as OK showed overall a higher correlation compared with scattergrams, which were interpreted as NOT OK. “Banana‐shape” scattergrams (n = 19) showed falsely elevated automated WBC count, and the patterns were mainly seen in prosthesis patients (17/19 [89%]). Six of 47 (13%) patients with joint arthroplasties were reclassified from “confirmed” to “unlikely” PJI according to the EBJIS criteria.

Conclusion

Our workflow based on scattergram interpretation resulted in accurate WBC counts in synovial fluid using automated/and or manual methods. It is important to identify the presence of “banana‐shape” scattergrams to avoid overestimated automated WBC counts. Overall, automated synovial WBC count can be used, even for patients with arthroplasty, but after visual inspection of the scattergram to exclude possible interferences.
Antibiotic bone cement accelerates diabetic foot wound healing: Elucidating the role of ROCK1 protein expression
Authors: Yang Chenglan , Wang Dali
Published: March 2024

Clinical studies indicate antibiotic bone cement with propeller flaps improves diabetic foot wound repair and reduces amputation rates, but the molecular mechanisms, particularly key proteins' role remain largely unexplored. This study assessed the efficacy of antibiotic bone cement for treating diabetic foot wounds, focusing on molecular impact on ROCK1. Sixty patients were randomized into experimental (EXP, n = 40) and control (CON, n = 20) groups, treated with antibiotic bone cement and negative pressure. Wound healing rate, amputation rate, wound secretion culture and C‐reactive protein (CRP) changes, were monitored. Comprehensive molecular investigations were conducted and animal experiments were performed to further validate the findings. Statistical methods were employed to verify significant differences between the groups and treatment outcomes. The EXP group showed significant improvements in wound healing ( = 11.265, p = 0.004) and reduced amputation rates. Elevated levels of ROCK1, fibroblasts and VGF were observed in the trauma tissue post‐treatment in the experimental group compared to pre‐treatment and the control group (all p < 0.05). Improved trauma secretion culture and CRP were also noted in the EXP group (all p < 0.05). The study suggests that antibiotic bone cement enhances diabetic foot wound healing, possibly via upregulation of ROCK1. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and broader clinical implications.
Application of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in diabetic foot ulcers: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Hai‐Rong , Lu Shi‐Juan , Wang Qi , Li Ming‐Lan , Chen Xun‐Chun , Pan Bi‐Yun
Published: March 2024

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been used in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) for many years, but its clinical efficacy is still controversial. Therefore, this study explored the efficacy of HBOT applied to DFU by means of meta‐analysis. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI and Wanfang databases were searched, from database inception to October 2023, and published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of HBOT in DFU were collected. Two investigators independently screened the collected literature, extracted relevant data and assessed the quality of the literature. Review Manager 5.4 software was applied for data analysis. Twenty‐nine RCTs with 1764 patients were included. According to the combined results, when compared with conventional treatment, HBOT significantly increased the complete healing rate of DFUs (46.76% vs. 24.46%, odds ratio [OR]: 2.83, 95% CI: 2.29–3.51, p < 0.00001) and decreased the amputation rate (26.03% vs. 45.00%, OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.18–0.95, p = 0.04), but the incidence of adverse events was significantly higher in patients (17.37% vs. 8.27%, OR: 2.49, 95% CI: 1.35–4.57, p = 0.003), whereas there was no significant difference in the mortality (6.96% vs. 12.71%, OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.21–1.28, p = 0.16). Our results suggest that HBOT is effective in increasing the complete healing rate and decreasing the amputation rate in patients with DFUs, but increases the incidence of adverse events, while it has no significant effect on mortality.
The impact of long‐term antihypertensive treatment on wound healing after major non‐cardiac surgery in patients with cardiovascular diseases: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Yuwei , Ma Chunwei , Tang Xiaoyan , Liu Sha , Jin Yalei
Published: March 2024

Hypertension is a prevalent condition that poses significant challenges in the perioperative management of patients undergoing major non‐cardiac surgery, particularly concerning wound healing and scar formation. This meta‐analysis assesses the impact of long‐term antihypertensive treatment on postoperative wound healing, examining data from seven studies involving patients who received such treatments compared to untreated controls. Our findings reveal that long‐term antihypertensive therapy is associated with significantly improved wound healing outcomes, as indicated by lower REEDA scores (I2 = 96%, SMD = −25.71, 95% CI: [−33.71, −17.70], p < 0.01) 1 week post‐surgery and reduced scar formation, demonstrated by lower Manchester Scar Scale scores (I2 = 93%, SMD = −37.29, 95% CI: [−44.93, −29.64], p < 0.01) 2 months post‐surgery. These results underscore the potential benefits of antihypertensive treatment in enhancing surgical recovery and offer insights into optimising perioperative care for hypertensive patients.
Biomass production of 14 accessions of cactus pear (Opuntia spp.) under semi‐arid land conditions
Authors: Neupane Dhurba , Niechayev Nicholas A. , Petrusa Lisa M. , Heinitz Claire , Cushman John C.
Published: March 2024

Increased food, feed, and biofuel demands of the future will require a greater reliance upon crop production systems in arid and semi‐arid regions around the world. Diminishing freshwater resources and hotter and drier climatic conditions will also necessitate the use of highly drought tolerant and water‐use efficient crops. Cactus pear (Opuntia ficus‐indica) is a low‐water input, climate‐resilient crop capable of high biomass production due to its use of crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). Cactus pear produces both food and forage/fodder, a wide variety of high‐value byproducts, and serves as a bioenergy feedstock for biogas or bioethanol production. Here, we evaluated the biomass productivity of 14 Opuntia spp. accessions from the National Arid Land Plant Genetic Resources Unit (NALPGRU) in Parlier, CA under semi‐arid conditions with a planting density of 6667 plants ha−1 over a 3‐year period to identify high‐yielding biomass producers. Mean annual cladode fresh weight (CFW) (73.7 Mg ha−1 year−1), cladode dry weight (CDW) (5.2 Mg ha−1 year−1), and cladode count (CC) (10.5 cladodes plant−1) increased by 2.9‐, 2.8‐, and 2.8‐fold in year 3 compared with year 1. PARL 845, hybrid no. 46 (O. ficus‐indica × O. lindheimerii), showed the highest annual mean CFW (152.8 Mg ha−1 year−1), CDW (13.3 Mg ha−1 year−1), CC (22.1 cladodes plant−1), and dry matter content (DMC, 11.2%) among all accessions tested. Non‐hybrid accessions PARL 242 (O. cochenillifera), PARL 582 (Opuntia sp.), and PARL 584 (Opuntia sp.) showed 100% cladode establishment rates and CDW productivity of >6 Mg ha−1 year−1. Such biomass productivity results indicate that cactus pear displays great potential as a crop with many uses with lower water inputs than conventional crops for arid and semi‐arid environments.
Application of artificial intelligence techniques in meat processing: A review
Authors: Wang Mingyu , Li Xinxing
Published: March 2024

The field of meat processing plays a critical role in the food industry and has seen increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology with rapid technological advancements. AI technology has tremendous potential for enhancing production efficiency and product quality in meat processing. However, further research and exploration are necessary to tackle the challenges posed by the use of AI technology. This article details the implementation of AI technology in meat processing, focusing on carcass classification, automation and intelligent processing, and meat‐quality detection. We aim to provide inspiration to researchers and industry professionals and promote the advancement of AI technology in the meat processing sector.

Practical applications

Our review article showcases the potential industrial applications of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in the meat processing industry. AI technology can greatly improve production efficiency and product quality in meat processing. By implementing AI algorithms, meat processors can accurately classify carcasses, automate various processing tasks, and detect meat quality with higher accuracy. These advancements can lead to increased profitability and improved food safety in the industry. We hope to provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals, encouraging them to further explore and adopt AI technology in the meat processing sector.
A transcriptional cascade mediated by two APETALA2 family members orchestrates carotenoid biosynthesis in tomato
Authors: He Xiaoqing , Liu Kaidong , Wu Yi , Xu Weijie , Wang Ruochen , Pirrello Julien , Bouzayen Mondher , Wu Mengbo , Liu Mingchun
Published: March 2024

Carotenoids are important nutrients for human health that must be obtained from plants since they cannot be biosynthesized by the human body. Dissecting the regulatory mechanism of carotenoid metabolism in plants represents the first step toward manipulating carotenoid contents in plants by molecular design breeding. In this study, we determined that SlAP2c, an APETALA2 (AP2) family member, acts as a transcriptional repressor to regulate carotenoid biosynthesis in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Knockout of SlAP2c in both the “MicroTom” and “Ailsa Craig” backgrounds resulted in greater lycopene accumulation, whereas overexpression of this gene led to orange‐ripe fruit with significantly lower lycopene contents than the wild type. We established that SlAP2c represses the expression of genes involved in lycopene biosynthesis by directly binding to the cis‐elements in their promoters. Moreover, SlAP2c relies on its EAR motif to recruit the co‐repressors TOPLESS (TPL)2/4 and forms a complex with histone deacetylase (had)1/3, thereby reducing the histone acetylation levels of lycopene biosynthesis genes. Furthermore, SlAP2a, a homolog of SlAP2c, acts upstream of SlAP2c and alleviates the SlAP2c‐induced repression of lycopene biosynthesis genes by inhibiting SlAP2c transcription during fruit ripening. Therefore, we identified a transcriptional cascade mediated by AP2 family members that regulates lycopene biosynthesis during fruit ripening in tomato, laying the foundation for the manipulation of carotenoid metabolism in plants.