bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zeoponic, a plant growing medium from zeolite mineral
Authors: Tjahyandari Suryaningtyas Dyah , Galuh Nur Fatiha Yuniar , Oktariani Putri , Suwardi
Published: January 2023

A plant-growing medium is an essential part of many horticultural crop systems and it influences nutrient uptakes. The present work aims at assessing the beneficial effects of zeoponic, a plant-growing medium made from zeolite, compost, and cocopeat, on the performances of three vegetable crops: green mustard, tomato, and eggplant plants. This research was conducted at IPB greenhouse in Cikabayan and Laboratory of the Department of Soil Science, IPB University, using five different plant growing media, including zeoponic. The plant-growing media and the plant tissues were analyzed to determine the relationship between the plant growing media characteristics and plant growth. According to the findings, zeoponic treatment increased the plant height, root length and shoot fresh weight. Zeoponic increased the efficiency of nutrient uptake, especially nitrogen, due to its great capacity for cation exchange and capacity to absorb ammonium ions. Zeoponic can also maintain low electrical conductivity so that plants cultivate in zeoponic grow faster than those in other plant-growing media.
Detection of imidacloprid and deltamethrin pesticide residues in honey produced by Apis mellifera and Tetragonula laeviceps
Authors: Mubin Nadzirum , Hasna Audia Bela , Nurulalia Lia , Dadang
Published: January 2023

Pesticides are chemicals or biological agents that farmers commonly use to control pests. Consequently, pesticides may contaminate agricultural products after application and also contaminate other commodities because of their high persistence. This research determined the pesticide contamination of two active ingredients, imidacloprid, and deltamethrin, in honey obtained from four beekeeping in Java. The honey samples of as much as 250g were collected from beekeeping of honeybee (Apis mellifera) in Blora-Central Java and Subang-West Java, also stingless bee (Tetragonula laeviceps) in Sumedang and Banten, West Java. Residue analysis was performed using the LC-MS/MS method in Saraswanti Indo Genetech, Bogor. The beekeeping location was around 500 to 1000 meters from cultivation plants, such as chili, shallot, and rice. Based on residue analysis results, the active ingredient was undetected, or the content of the detected active ingredient was below the limit of detection/LOD (<0.001 mg/kg of imidacloprid; <0.0039 mg/kg of deltamethrin). In addition, the LOD that can be detected was also underneath the maximum residue limit/MRL (0.05 mg/kg of imidacloprid; 0.03 mg/kg of deltamethrin). Therefore, honey from beekeeping was still secure for consumption. Even though all beekeeping locations were close to crops, the bees did not carry contaminated nectar from crops.
Effect of endophytic fungi on the ability of Aphis craccivora Koch. in transmitting Bean common mosaic virus
Authors: Rinika R , Damayanti TA , Wiyono S , Santoso S
Published: January 2023

Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) and its aphid vector, Aphis craccivora, are essential limiting factors in yardlong bean production. The previous study showed that endophytic fungi (EF), Lecanicillium lecanii (LL), and H5 could suppress virus titer in BCMV-infected plants by its vector Aphis craccivora. Therefore, elucidation of its mechanisms is a necessary study. This research aimed to study the ability of aphids reared on EF-treated and untreated control plants to transmit BCMV. The adult aphids had been raised on EF-treated yard-long beans for three generations. The 3rd generation of adult aphids was used as vectors to transmit BCMV after acquisition feeding on infected plants and inoculating feeding on healthy plants. The disease assessment parameters were observed at four weeks post-transmission. Generally, the population number of aphids on EF-treated plants was significantly lower compared to the control. The transmission of BCMV using the 3rd generation of aphids reared on EF-treated plants affected by the prolonged incubation period, lower disease incidence and severity score, and significantly lower virus titer compared to control. Moreover, the detection of BCMV by ELISA in aphids after virus transmission showed an adverse reaction, indicating that the virus from acquisition feeding was transmitted to plants during inoculation feeding. These results revealed that rearing aphids on EF-treated plants interfere with the aphids’ ability to transmit BCMV by decreasing virus acquired during acquisition and inoculation feeding.
Biology of Elaeidobius kamerunicus in the lowland and highland on North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Rozziansha T A P , Fitraini A A , Girsang R J , Priwiratama H , Prasetyo A E
Published: January 2023

Due to limited planted areas, the oil palm was planted in the highland and showed low productivity, which could be caused by changes in the Elaeidobius kamerunicus biology, activities, and population as the primary pollinator. This research aimed to gain the E. kamerunicus biology information on lowlands and highlands. This observation measured the egg, larvae, pupae, and adult. The results showed the eggs’ incubation period in lowland and highland up to 1.01±0.02 and 2.50±0.05 days, respectively. The head capsule diameter of first, second, and third instars larvae was not significantly different in lowland and highland. The lifespan of male E. kamerunicus adults was longer than females in the lowland, reach to 52.53 ± 5.82 and 37.87 ± 4.79 days, respectively. While in the highland, the female life span was more prolonged than males, reaching 10.78 ± 2.36 and 15.72 ± 3.83 days, respectively. The life cycle of E. kamerunicus was 12.25 ± 0.51 days in the lowland and 29.5 ± 8.58 days in the highland. The average eggs number laid during life was about 197.97 in the lowland, while in the highland, approximately 20.36 eggs were laid during life. Abiotic factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and light intensity affect the weevil’s biology and ecology.
The sustainability analysis of red chili farming in Taraju District, Tasikmalaya Regency
Authors: Nuraini C , Mutolib A
Published: January 2023

The sustainability status of red chili farming and the level of factors or sensitive attributes that affect the sustainability dimension in red chili farming were examined in this research. The research was conducted in Taraju District with a purposive side technique. The fundamental consideration is that Taraji District is one of the areas with the highest production level in Tasikmalaya Regency. The number of samples was 37 consisting of farmers. The RAP-Fish method was implemented to assess the sustainability status of farming. The test used to scale the index of sustainability was Leverage Analysis and Multidimensional Scaling (MDS). The research defined ecological, economic, and social dimensions that were entirely sustainable. The Sustainability index of red chili farming was based on social and ecological dimensions; it obtained values of 47.36 and 43.00, so it was categorized in the less sustainable category. While the sustainable index of red chili farming from the economic dimension obtained is 24.45, it was classified as unsustainable.
An artificial intelligence approach for managing water demand in water supply systems
Authors: Zanfei Ariele , Menapace Andrea , Righetti Maurizio
Published: January 2023

Water demand management is essential for water utilities, which have the critical task of supplying drinking water from water sources to end-users through the distribution network. Therefore, the water utilities have to make decisions for the current and future functioning of the water distribution system. In this context, the artificial intelligence approach with data-driven methods can be used to develop powerful tools to improve overall water management. In fact, data-driven methods can model water demands for plenty of tasks and applications such as demand forecasting or anomaly detection. In this work, we propose and discuss a practical application of an artificial neural network to model the urban water demand of a water supply system. The flexibility of the proposed method allows the prediction of water demand on different horizons. Moreover, this developed model can effectively support water utilities on different operational schedules and decision tasks.
Spatiotemporal correlation and multivariate analysis between vegetation health, terrestrial water storage and precipitation
Authors: Wijekoon Sithmini , Zahidi Izni , Yusuf Badronnisa , Shafri Helmi Zulhaidi Mohd
Published: January 2023

Vegetation health is an essential indicator in the global hydrologic cycle as it is interrelated with the hydrological components. In tropical areas where vegetation dominates, analysing their correlation at a regional scale helps forecast the hydrologic cycle and understand vegetation’s response to climate change. However, the interactions between vegetation, terrestrial water storage and climate factors such as precipitation remain poorly understood in this region. Therefore, using Landsat and Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) remote sensing and observed precipitation data, this study analysed the spatiotemporal correlation of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Terrestrial Water Storage Anomaly (TWSA) and precipitation for the whole Peninsular Malaysia. The correlation coefficient (R) was used to assess the temporal variability of NDVI with TWSA and precipitation separately. Furthermore, a Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model was constructed to evaluate the spatial non-stationarity and heterogeneity relationships between the multi variables. The findings revealed complex interactions between the variables, where the strength of the correlations varied depending on the localised region and study period. The results suggest that downscaled GRACE-derived TWSA data would be helpful for detailed vegetation modelling and water resources management.
Flood forecasting with Machine Learning in a scarce data layout
Authors: Defontaine Théo , Ricci Sophie , Lapeyre Corentin , Marchandise Arthur , Pape Etienne Le
Published: January 2023

Flooding is one of the major natural disasters occurring in the world, with climate change increasing their occurrence and severity. Reliable flood forecasting models are needed to have better insurance in the emergency services’ actions. This work reflects the capacities of Machine Learning models to improve discharge prediction results from empirical lag and route models based on hourly measured water level at gauge stations on the Garonne River. With scarce flooding data (30000 points) over the last 15 years, several learning algorithms have been implemented to predict floods in Toulouse at a 6-hour lead time from upstream stations providing hourly observations. A Linear Regression, a Gradient Boosting Regressor (Machine Learning) and a MultiLayer Perceptron (Neural Network, Deep Learning) are compared, using various strategies for learning, validating and predicting. Preliminary results show that the various strategies score as well as the empirical lag and route model. Further improvements are being investigated regarding the constitution of learning and validation data bases. This paper highlights how AI algorithms allow to improve the reliability of flood forecasts and how the layout of the limited volume of data influences their performance.
Statistical evaluation on hydrologic performance of bioretention design parameters under different rainfall conditions
Authors: Tansar Husnain , Duan Huan-Feng , Mark Ole
Published: January 2023

Effectiveness of a bioretention cell (BC) in mitigating stormwater peak flow load to an urban drainage system is highly dependent on the design configuration and retrofitting scale. The selection of appropriate BC design parameters has always been critical to achieving its maximum benefits. The BC modeling in the stormwater management model (SWMM) relies on numerous design parameters (in total of 18) with wide selection ranges, making parameter selection challenging. This study investigated the effect of hydrologic dynamics of BC design parameters under different rainfall conditions (i.e., intensity, duration, time-to-peak) on surface infiltration, surface outflow, and storage. Firstly, the seven influential BC design parameters (i.e., conductivity, berm height, vegetation volume, suction head, porosity, wilting point, and soil thickness) were selected based on one-factor-at-a-time (OAT) method, and 1000 random samples of each parameter were generated across the factor space by following respective uniform distributions. The simulations were performed with a python wrapper of SWMM (PySWMM) that used random samples for one parameter while leaving the others constant each time. In general, the statistical results of each parameter represent a significant variation in the volume distribution under various design rainfall conditions. Comparatively, the parameters of conductivity, berm height, and vegetation volume are categorized as the most influential compared to other BC design parameters for surface infiltration, storage, and surface outflow, respectively.
ONASP: A web application for groundwater data visualization in Panama
Authors: Castrellón María G. , Pauloo Richard A. , Popescu Ioana , Fábrega José
Published: January 2023

Groundwater data in Panama is scattered and held by different institutions, which complicates water management decision-making. Integrating different data sources into a central, web-accessible location that displays near-real-time and accurate groundwater data will facilitate informed decision-making. In this paper, we present a web application to visualize the location and hydrographs associated with monitoring wells and rain gages from the La Villa Watershed, located in south-central Panama. The app was built using the R programming language and interactive elements from the shiny framework. It represents a first step towards organizing, centralizing, and making groundwater data in Panama web-accessible, to enable informed, evidence-based water management decisions.
A POD-based reduced order model applied to 1D shallow water equations
Authors: Solán-Fustero Pablo , Gracia José Luis , Navas-Montilla Adrián , García-Navarro Pilar
Published: January 2023

Many environmental problems involving free surface flow can be solved using the shallow water equations (SWE) often involving high computational costs due to the large spatial and temporal scales of the events. In recent times, reduced order models (ROM) techniques are increasingly used to improve the computational efficiency of simulation models. The Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) method provides an orthogonal basis for representing a given set of data and constructing the ROM by means of the method of snapshots. In this work, a POD-based intrusive ROM strategy is applied to the 1D SWE. The main goal of this work is to build a simulation model able to reproduce realistic scenarios. We analyse the computational improvement and the accuracy of the ROM results with respect to those of the full-order model (FOM).
Understanding district metered area level leakage using explainable machine learning
Authors: Hayslep Matthew , Keedwell Edward , Farmani Raziyeh , Pocock Joshua
Published: January 2023

Understanding the various interrelated effects that result in leakage is vital to the effort to reduce it. This paper aims to understand, at the district metered area (DMA) level, the relationship between leakage and static characteristics of a DMA, i.e. without considering pressure or flow. The characteristics used include the number of pipes and connections, total DMA volume and network density, as well as pipe diameter, length, age, and material statistics. Leakage, especially background and unreported leakage, can be difficult to accurately quantify. Here, the Average Weekly Minimum Night Flow (AWM) over the last 5 years is used as a proxy for leakage. While this may include some legitimate demand, it is generally assumed that minimum night flow, strongly correlates with leakage. A data-driven case study on over 800 real DMAs from UK networks is conducted. Two regression models, a decision tree model and an elastic net linear regression model, are created to predict the AWM of unseen DMAs. Reasonable accuracy was achieved, considering pressure is not an included feature, and the models are investigated for the most prominent features related to leakage.
Controllable and tunable plasma photonic crystals through a combination of photonic crystal and dielectric barrier discharge patterns
Authors: GUO Liting , PAN Yuyang , YU Guanglin , WANG Zhaoyang , GAO Kuangya , FAN Weili , DONG Lifang
Published: January 2023

We report five types of patterns with square symmetry, including three novel types obtained by inserting a specially designed grid photonic crystal (PC) into a dielectric barrier discharge system. They are studied using an intensified charge-coupled device camera and photomultiplier tubes. The three novel types of patterns are a square pattern with one structure, a square superlattice pattern with four sublattices and a (1/4)K
grid (K
grid is the basic wave vector of the grid), and another square pattern with a complex inversion discharge sequence. From the application viewpoint, the five types of patterns can be used as plasma photonic crystals (PPCs). Their band diagrams under a transverse-magnetic wave simulated by the finite element method show that there are a large number of band gaps. Compared with the original PC with only a unidirectional band gap, the five types of PPCs have tunable and omnidirectional band gaps, which is very important in controlling the propagation of electromagnetic waves in the mm-wave region. The experimental results enrich the pattern types in the dielectric barrier discharge system and provide a method for obtaining PPCs with symmetry controllability and bandgap tunability.
Different nitrogen acquirement and utilization strategies might determine the ecological competition between ferns and angiosperms
Authors: Zhang Chengming , Zhang Chaoqun , Azuma Takayuki , Maruyama Hayato , Shinano Takuro , Watanabe Toshihiro
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

The abundance or decline of fern populations in response to environmental change has been found to be largely dependent on specific physiological properties that distinguish ferns from angiosperms. Many studies have focused on water use efficiency and stomatal behaviours, but the effects of nutrition acquirement and utilization strategies on niche competition between ferns and flowering plants are rarely reported.

Methods

We collected 34 ferns and 42 angiosperms from the Botanic Garden of Hokkaido University for nitrogen (N), sulphur (S), NO3− and SO42− analysis. We then used a hydroponic system to compare the different N and S utilization strategies between ferns and angiosperms under N deficiency conditions.

Key Results

Ferns had a significantly higher NO3−-N concentration and NO3−-N/N ratio than angiosperms, although the total N concentration in ferns was remarkably lower than that in the angiosperms. Meanwhile, a positive correlation between N and S was found, indicating that nutrient concentration is involved in assimilation. Pteris cretica, a fern species subjected to further study, maintained a slow growth rate and lower N requirement in response to low N stress, while both the biomass and N concentration in wheat (Triticum aestivum) responded quickly to N deficiency conditions.

Conclusions

The different nutritional strategies employed by ferns and angiosperms depended mainly on the effects of phylogenetic and evolutionary diversity. Ferns tend to adopt an opportunistic strategy of limiting growth rate to reduce N demand and store more pooled nitrate, whereas angiosperms probably utilize N nutrition to ensure as much development as possible under low N stress. Identifying the effects of mineral nutrition on the evolutionary results of ecological competition between plant species remains a challenge.
Differences in temperature responses among phenological processes in diverse Ethiopian sorghum germplasm can affect their specific adaptation to environmental conditions
Authors: Tirfessa Alemu , McLean Greg , Baker Peter , Mortlock Miranda , Hammer Graeme , van Oosterom Erik
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Main shoot total leaf number (TLN) is a key determinant of plant leaf area and crop adaptation. Environmental factors other than photoperiod can affect TLN in sorghum, implying that leaf appearance rate (LAR) and development rate can differ in response to temperature. The objectives of this study were to determine (1) if temperature effects on TLN can be explained as a consequence of differences in temperature responses across phenological processes and (2) if genotypic differences in these responses can be linked to agroecological adaptation.

Methods

Nineteen sorghum genotypes were sown on 12 dates at two locations in Ethiopia with contrasting altitude, creating temperature differences independent of photoperiod. TLN and temperature were recorded in all experiments and LAR for six sowing dates.

Key Results

Eleven of the genotypes showed a temperature effect on TLN, which was associated with a significantly higher base temperature (Tbase) for LAR than for pre-anthesis development rate (DR). In contrast, genotypes with no effect of temperature on TLN had similar Tbase for LAR and DR. Across genotypes, Tbase for LAR and DR were highly correlated, but genotypes with low Tbase had the greatest difference in Tbase between the two processes. Genotypic differences were associated with racial grouping.

Conclusions

Genotypic and racial differences in responses of phenological processes to temperature, in particular in Tbase, can affect specific adaptation to agroecological zones, as these differences can affect TLN in response to temperature and hence canopy size and the duration of the pre-anthesis period. These can both affect the amount of water used and radiation intercepted pre-anthesis. A multi-disciplinary approach is required to identify genotype × environment × management combinations that can best capture the ensuing specific adaptation.
The starch-deficient plastidic PHOSPHOGLUCOMUTASE mutant of the constitutive crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) species Kalanchoë fedtschenkoi impacts diel regulation and timing of stomatal CO2 responsiveness
Authors: Hurtado-Castano Natalia , Atkins Elliott , Barnes Jerry , Boxall Susanna F , Dever Louisa V , Kneřová Jana , Hartwell James , Cushman John C , Borland Anne M
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is a specialized type of photosynthesis characterized by a diel pattern of stomatal opening at night and closure during the day, which increases water-use efficiency. Starch degradation is a key regulator of CAM, providing phosphoenolpyruvate as a substrate in the mesophyll for nocturnal assimilation of CO2. Growing recognition of a key role for starch degradation in C3 photosynthesis guard cells for mediating daytime stomatal opening presents the possibility that starch degradation might also impact CAM by regulating the provision of energy and osmolytes to increase guard cell turgor and drive stomatal opening at night. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the timing of diel starch turnover in CAM guard cells has been reprogrammed during evolution to enable nocturnal stomatal opening and daytime closure.

Methods

Biochemical and genetic characterization of wild-type and starch-deficient RNAi lines of Kalanchoë fedtschenkoi with reduced activity of plastidic phosphoglucomutase (PGM) constituted a preliminary approach for the understanding of starch metabolism and its implications for stomatal regulation in CAM plants.

Key Results

Starch deficiency reduced nocturnal net CO2 uptake but had negligible impact on nocturnal stomatal opening. In contrast, daytime stomatal closure was reduced in magnitude and duration in the starch-deficient rPGM RNAi lines, and their stomata were unable to remain closed in response to elevated concentrations of atmospheric CO2 administered during the day. Curtailed daytime stomatal closure was linked to higher soluble sugar contents in the epidermis and mesophyll.

Conclusions

Nocturnal stomatal opening is not reliant upon starch degradation, but starch biosynthesis is an important sink for carbohydrates, ensuring daytime stomatal closure in this CAM species.
Ex Vivo Product Distribution of Injectable Biostimulator Substances
Authors: Casabona Gabriela , Alfertshofer Michael , Kaye Kai , Frank Konstantin , Moellhoff Nicholas , Davidovic Kristina , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: January 2023

Background

Increasing demand for minimally invasive aesthetic treatments, such as injection of biostimulator substances to induce the production of extracellular matrix, has been reported. Recent studies have reported on a variety of different product characteristics influencing the integration and distribution of biostimulator substances after injection.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to analyze the ex vivo product integration and distribution behavior of 6 different biostimulator substances after injection.

Methods

A total of n = 21 abdominal soft tissue flaps were analysed by real-time ultrasound imaging with regards to horizontal and vertical spread of 6 different injected biostimulator substances—based on hydroxylapatite (HA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)—immediately after injection and after massaging. The 6 different biostimulator substances were R-CaHA-based, H-CaHA-based, PCL-based, PLLA-1-based, PLLA-2-based and H-HA-based products.

Results

Overall, the R-CaHA-, H-CaHA-, and PCL-based substances showed greater product spread after massaging when compared with the product distribution immediately after the injection with all P < .001 with the exception of the vertical dimension of the H-CaHA-based substance (P = .064). The PLLA-1-, PLLA-2-, and H-HA-based substances showed smaller product spread after massaging compared with the product distribution immediately after the injection with all P < .001 with the exception of the horizontal dimension of the H-HA-based substance (P = .314), indicating higher tissue integration.

Conclusions

Different biostimulator substances behave differently when injected into subcutaneous soft tissues; differences exist at the level of initial product diffusion and during tissue integration.
B-cell and complement signature in severe hidradenitis suppurativa that does not respond to adalimumab
Authors: Hambly Roisin , Gatault Solene , Smith Conor M , Iglesias-Martinez Luis F , Kearns Sean , Rea Helen , Marasigan Vivien , Lynam-Loane Kate , Kirthi Shivashini , Hughes Rosalind , Fletcher Jean M , Kolch Walter , Kirby Brian
Published: January 2023

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with significant morbidity. The pathogenesis remains incompletely understood although immune dysregulation plays an important role. It is challenging to treat and approximately 50% of patients respond clinically to adalimumab, the only licensed treatment.

Objectives

To examine differences between lesional and nonlesional HS skin at baseline using bulk RNA sequencing, and to compare the transcriptome in the skin before and after 12 weeks of treatment with adalimumab. To examine transcriptomic differences between adalimumab responders and nonresponders using Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response and the International Hidradenitis Suppurativa Severity Score System (IHS4); and to compare transcriptomic differences based on disease severity (Hurley stage and IHS4).

Methods

We completed bulk RNA sequencing on lesional and nonlesional skin samples of patients before and after 12 weeks of treatment with adalimumab.

Results

Baseline differentially expressed genes and pathways between lesional and nonlesional skin highlighted chemokines and antimicrobial peptides produced by keratinocytes; B-cell function; T-cell-receptor, interleukin-17 and nuclear factor-κB signalling; and T-helper-cell differentiation. Transcriptomic differences were identified in lesional skin at baseline, between subsequent responders and nonresponders. Patients with severe HS who did not respond to adalimumab had enriched complement and B-cell activation pathways at baseline. In addition, logistic regression identified CCL28 in baseline lesional HS skin as a potential biomarker of treatment response.

Conclusions

This highlights the potential for targeting B-cell and complement pathways in HS treatment and the potential of stratifying patients at baseline to the most suitable treatment based on the skin transcriptome. CCL28 has not previously been identified in HS skin and has potential clinical relevance due to its antimicrobial function and homing of B and T cells at epithelial surfaces. Our results provide data to inform future translational and clinical studies on therapeutics in HS.
The top 10 research priorities for skin cancer surgery in the UK: results of a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership
Authors: Brown Alistair C , Earp Eleanor M , Veitch David , Wernham Aaron ,   Surgical Priority Setting Partnership Steering Group, Abbott Rachel , Batchelor Jonathan , Belshaw Stuart , Bhatti Kash , Bladen John , Brown Alistair , Cannon Diane , Deeson Eric , Dooher Eric , Dunford Nigel , Earp Eleanor , Fairbrother Patricia , Giovanni Claudia , Grindlay Douglas , Helbert Matthew , Holmes John , Kervick Jackie , Kinsella Suzannah , Mcphee Maggie , Newlands Carrie , Petraitiene Viktorija , Pollock Jonathan , Razzaque Angelika , Rembielak Agata , Rodrigues Jonathan , Snow David , Thompson Diane , Ullah Ayath , Veitch David , Wernham Aaron , Wingfield Carrie , Ziaj Stela
Published: January 2023

The incidence of skin cancer is increasing and surgery is the mainstay of management. The James Lind Alliance (JLA) priority setting partnership (PSP) was designed to address research uncertainties in skin cancer surgery. We report the outcome and top ten research priorities from the JLA PSP in skin cancer surgery.
Risk single-nucleotide polymorphism-mediated enhancer–promoter interaction drives keloids through long noncoding RNA down expressed in keloids
Authors: Deng Cheng-Cheng , Zhang Li-Xue , Xu Xue-Yan , Zhu Ding-Heng , Cheng Qing , Ma Shufeng , Rong Zhili , Yang Bin
Published: January 2023

Background

Keloids represent one extreme of aberrant dermal wound healing and are characterized by fibroblast hyperproliferation and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix. Genetics is a major factor for predisposition to keloids and genome-wide association study has identified a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs873549 at 1q41 as a susceptibility locus. The SNP rs873549, and the SNPs in strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) with rs873549, may be involved in keloid development. However, the functional significance of these SNPs in keloid pathogenesis remains elusive.

Objectives

To investigate the function and mechanism of SNP rs873549 and the SNPs in strong LD with rs873549 in keloids.

Methods

SNPs in strong LD with rs873549 were analysed using Haploview. The expression levels of the genes near the susceptibility locus were analysed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The interaction between rs1348270-containing enhancer and the long noncoding RNA down expressed in keloids (DEIK) (formerly RP11-400N13.1) promoter in fibroblasts was investigated using chromosome conformation capture. The enhancer activity of the rs1348270 locus was evaluated using luciferase reporter assay. Knockdown experiments were used to explore the function of DEIK in keloids. RNA-Seq was performed to investigate the mechanism by which DEIK regulates the expression of collagens POSTN and COMP.

Results

rs1348270, an enhancer-located SNP in strong LD with rs873549, mediated looping with the promoter of DEIK. The risk variant was associated with decreased enhancer–promoter interaction and DEIK down-expression in keloids. Mechanistically, downregulation of DEIK increased the expression of collagens POSTN and COMP through upregulating BMP2. Furthermore, correlation analysis revealed that DEIK expression was inversely correlated with BMP2, POSTN and COMP expression in both keloid and normal fibroblasts.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the risk variant rs1348270 is located in an enhancer and is associated with the downregulation of DEIK in keloids, and that downregulation of DEIK increases the expression of collagens POSTN and COMP through BMP2 in keloid fibroblasts. These findings will help to provide a more thorough understanding of the role played by genetic factors in keloid development and may lead to new strategies for screening and therapy in keloid-susceptible populations.
Biallelic TUFT1 variants cause woolly hair, superficial skin fragility and desmosomal defects
Authors: Jackson Adam , Moss Celia , Chandler Kate E , Balboa Pablo Lopez , Bageta Maria L , Petrof Gabriela , Martinez Anna E , Liu Lu , Guy Alyson , Mellerio Jemima E , Lee John Y W , Ogboli Malobi , Ryan Gavin ,   Genomics England Research Consortium, McGrath John A , Banka Siddharth
Published: January 2023

Background

Desmosomes are complex cell junction structures that connect intermediate filaments providing strong cell-to-cell adhesion in tissues exposed to mechanical stress.

Objectives

To identify causal variants in individuals with woolly hair and skin fragility of unknown genetic cause.

Methods

This research was conducted using whole-genome sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, clinical phenotyping, haplotype analysis, single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis, immunofluorescence microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

We identified homozygous predicted loss-of-function tuftelin-1 (TUFT1) variants in nine individuals, from three families, with woolly hair and skin fragility. One donor splice-site variant, c.60+1G>A, was present in two families, while a frameshift variant, p.Gln189Asnfs*49, was found in the third family. Haplotype analysis showed the c.60+1G>A substitution to be a founder variant in the Irish population that likely arose approximately 20 generations ago. Human and mouse single-cell RNA sequencing data showed TUFT1 expression to be enriched in the hair dermal sheath and keratinocytes. TUFT1 expression was highly correlated with genes encoding desmosomal components implicated in diseases with phenotypes that overlap with the cohort presented here. Immunofluorescence showed tuftelin-1 to be mainly localized to the peripheral cell membranes of keratinocytes in normal skin. Skin samples from individuals with TUFT1 variants showed markedly reduced immunoreactivity for tuftelin-1, with a loss of the keratinocyte cell membrane labelling. Light microscopy revealed keratinocyte adhesion, mild hyperkeratosis and areas of superficial peeling. Transmission electron microscopy showed panepidermal acantholysis with widening of intercellular spaces throughout the epidermis and desmosomal detachment through the inner plaques.

Conclusions

Biallelic loss-of-function TUFT1 variants cause a new autosomal recessive skin/hair disorder characterized by woolly hair texture and early-onset skin fragility. Tuftelin-1 has a role in desmosomal integrity and function.
Vascular endothelial growth factor, tissue factor, coagulation and fibrinolysis markers in slow-flow vascular malformations: a prospective study of treatment with sirolimus
Authors: Maruani Annabel , Moineau Anne-Guillemette , Boccara Olivia , Mazereeuw-Hautier Juliette , Leducq Sophie , Bessis Didier , Guibaud Laurent , Vabres Pierre , Mallet Stephanie , Barbarot Sebastien , Chiaverini Christine , Droitcourt Catherine , Bursztejn Anne-Claire , Lengelle Céline , Woillard Jean-Baptiste , Herbreteau Denis , Le Touze Anne , Binet Aurélien , Morel Baptiste , Bourgoin Hélène , Gissot Valérie , Giraudeau Bruno , Gruel Yves , Tavernier Elsa , Rollin Jérôme
Published: January 2023

Slow-flow vascular malformations (VMs), especially those with venous components, can be complicated by localized intravascular coagulopathy (LIC), responsible for pain and impaired quality of life. Several studies have shown the effectiveness of mTOR inhibitors (especially sirolimus) on slow-flow VMs but its effect on coagulation has been poorly studied, especially in children. Our study shows that venous and combined VMs are associated with coagulation abnormalities and provides novel evidence that sirolimus improves coagulopathy in venous malformations. However we did not clearly evidence predictive biomarkers of response to sirolimus but this is the first study attempting to highlight predictive markers of response to sirolimus.
When too much is too much: noncoding duplications in skin disorders
Authors: Yumiceba Verónica , Spielmann Malte
Published: January 2023

In the current issue of the British Journal of Dermatology, Liu & Banka & Huang et al report the first example of an inherited cancer predisposition syndrome caused by non-coding duplications on chromosome Xq26.1
A homozygous p.Leu813Pro gain-of-function NLRP1 variant causes phenotypes of different severity in two siblings
Authors: Li Mingfeng , Lay Kenneth , Zimmer Andreas , Technau-Hafsi Kristin , Wong Jasmine , Reimer-Taschenbrecker Antonia , Rohr Jan , Abdalla Ebtesam , Fischer Judith , Reversade Bruno , Has Cristina
Published: January 2023

Background

A trio exome sequencing study identified a previously unreported NLRP1 gene variant resulting in a p.Leu813Pro substitution of the LRR (leucine-rich repeats) domain of the NLRP1 protein (NACHT, LRR and PYD domains-containing protein 1). This homozygous mutation was shared by two sisters with different clinical presentation: the younger sister had generalized inflammatory nodules with keratotic plugs, clinically resembling multiple keratoacanthomas, while the older had manifestations of familial keratosis lichenoides chronica.

Objectives

To analyse the consequences of this NLRP1 variant in two siblings with a different clinical spectrum of severity.

Methods

To demonstrate the pathogenicity, p.Leu813Pro was recombinantly expressed, and its effect on inflammasome assembly was assessed. Exome sequencing and RNA-Seq were performed to identify factors with potentially modifying effects on the severity of the skin manifestation between each sibling.

Results

The variant p.Leu813Pro triggered activation of the NLRP1 inflammasome leading to ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD) speck formation and interleukin (IL)-1β release. The more severely affected sister had several additional genomic variants associated with atopy and psoriasis that were not present in her sibling. IL-5 and IL-17 emerged as dominant cytokines driving prominent inflammation in the skin of the severely affected sibling.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a NLRP1 variant that leads to a different clinical spectrum of severity within the same sibship. IL-5 and IL-17 were the main cytokines expressed in the inflammatory lesions of the severely affected patient and might be regarded as disease modifying factors, and therefore may be considered as therapeutic targets.
Long-term oral antibiotic use in people with acne vulgaris in UK primary care: a drug utilization study
Authors: Bhate Ketaki , Mansfield Kathryn E , Sinnott Sarah-Jo , Margolis David J , Adesanya Elizabeth  , Francis Nick , Leyrat Clemence , Hopkins Susan , Stabler Richard , Shallcross Laura , Langan Sinéad M , Mathur Rohini
Published: January 2023

Background

The inappropriate use of antibiotics is understood to contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Oral antibiotics are regularly used to treat moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris. In practice, we do not know the typical length of oral antibiotic treatment courses for acne in routine primary care and what proportion of people receive more than one course of treatment following a new acne diagnosis.

Objectives

To describe how oral antibiotics are prescribed for acne over time in UK primary care.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive longitudinal drug utilization study using routinely collected primary care data from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD (2004–2019). We included individuals (8–50 years) with a new acne diagnosis recorded between 1 January 2004 and 31 July 2019.

Results

We identified 217 410 people with a new acne diagnosis. The median age was 17 years [interquartile range (IQR) 15–25] and median follow-up was 4.3 years (IQR 1.9–7.6). Among people with a new acne diagnosis, 96 703 (44.5%) received 248 560 prescriptions for long-term oral antibiotics during a median follow-up of 5.3 years (IQR 2.8–8.5). The median number of continuous courses of antibiotic therapy (≥ 28 days) per person was four (IQR 2–6). The majority (n = 59 010, 61.0%) of first oral antibiotic prescriptions in those with a recorded acne diagnosis were between the ages of 12 and 18. Most (n = 71 544, 74.0%) first courses for oral antibiotics were for between 28 and 90 days. The median duration of the first course of treatment was 56 days (IQR 50–93 days) and 18 127 (18.7%) of prescriptions of ≥ 28 days were for < 6 weeks. Among people who received a first course of oral antibiotic for ≥ 28 days, 56 261 (58.2%) received a second course after a treatment gap of ≥ 28 days. The median time between first and second courses was 135 days (IQR 67–302). The cumulative duration of exposure to oral antibiotics during follow-up was 255 days (8.5 months).

Conclusions

Further work is needed to understand the consequences of using antibiotics for shorter periods than recommended. Suboptimal treatment duration may result in reduced clinical effectiveness or repeated exposures, potentially contributing to antimicrobial resistance.
Commercial visible-light protecting sunscreens for photosensitive individuals
Authors: Eadie Ewan , Josso Martin , Touti Rita , Renoux Pascale , Dawe Robert S , Ibbotson Sally H
Published: January 2023

Visible light sensitivity can have a severe adverse impact on quality of life leading to withdrawal from social activity during daylight hours. Treatment options are limited and expensive. Commercially available sunscreens that provide visible light protection is of immediate practical importance, particularly for patients with Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP) and Solar Urticaria as they experience intense symptoms of pain, burning, itch and urticarial rash or phototoxic erythema within seconds to minutes of even minor VL exposure.
The association of anxiety with granuloma annulare: a case–control study of the National Institutes of Health ‘All of Us’ research programme
Authors: Belzer Annika , Leasure Audrey C , Damsky William , Cohen Jeffrey M
Published: January 2023

Dear Editor, Granuloma annulare (GA) is an inflammatory skin disease that has been associated with diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypothyroidism and autoimmune disorders.1,2 The annualized incidence and prevalence of GA in the USA are approximately 0.04% and 0.06%, respectively (with a female predominance).3 GA is clinically classified as localized (75% of cases), generalized or subcutaneous.4 There is a body of evidence supporting an association between several inflammatory dermatoses, such as psoriasis, and mental health conditions.5 Improvement of depression and anxiety following treatment of certain inflammatory dermatoses has also been described.5 It has been postulated that this association may, in part, relate to proinflammatory cytokines, which have been proposed to mechanistically connect inflammatory dermatoses and mental health conditions.6 A recent nested case–control study demonstrated a significant association of GA with depression, insomnia, opioid dependence and post-traumatic stress disorder.7 This study aims to investigate whether an association exists between GA and anxiety.
‘Eczema shouldn’t control you; you should control eczema’: qualitative process evaluation of online behavioural interventions to support young people and parents/carers of children with eczema
Authors: Greenwell Kate , Sivyer Katy , Howells Laura , Steele Mary , Ridd Matthew J , Roberts Amanda , Ahmed Amina , Lawton Sandra , Langan Sinéad M , Hooper Julie , Wilczynska Sylvia , Leighton Paul , Griffiths Gareth , Sach Tracey , Little Paul , Williams Hywel C , Thomas Kim S , Yardley Lucy , Santer Miriam , Muller Ingrid
Published: January 2023

Background

There is a lack of well-conducted randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of theory-based online interventions for eczema. To address these deficiencies, we previously developed and demonstrated the effectiveness of two online behavioural interventions: Eczema Care Online for parents/carers of children with eczema, and Eczema Care Online for young people with eczema.

Objectives

To explore the views and experiences of people who have used the Eczema Care Online interventions to provide insights into how the interventions worked and identify contextual factors that may impede users’ engagement with the interventions.

Methods

Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 parents/carers of children with eczema and 17 young people with eczema. Participants were purposively sampled from two randomized controlled trials of the interventions and recruited from GP surgeries in England. Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis, and intervention modifications were identified using the person-based approach table of changes method.

Results

Both young people and parents/carers found the interventions easy to use, relatable and trustworthy, and perceived that they helped them to manage their eczema, thus suggesting that Eczema Care Online may be acceptable to its target groups. Our analysis suggested that the interventions may reduce eczema severity by facilitating empowerment among its users, specifically through improved understanding of, and confidence in, eczema management, reduced treatment concerns, and improved treatment adherence and management of irritants/triggers. Reading about the experiences of others with eczema helped people to feel ‘normal’ and less alone. Some (mainly young people) expressed firmly held negative beliefs about topical corticosteroids, views that were not influenced by the intervention. Minor improvements to the design and navigation of the Eczema Care Online interventions and content changes were identified and made, ready for wider implementation.

Conclusions

People with eczema and their families can benefit from reliable information, specifically information on the best and safest ways to use their eczema treatments early in their eczema journey. Together, our findings from this study and the corresponding trials suggest wider implementation of Eczema Care Online (EczemaCareOnline.org.uk) is justified.
How we treat atopic dermatitis now and how that will change over the next 5 years
Authors: Flohr Carsten
Published: January 2023

We live in exciting times in atopic dermatitis therapeutics, with many novel treatments in the clinical trial pipeline. Frustratingly, most of these trials are vehicle- or placebo-controlled, rather than head-to-head comparisons. Network meta-analyses can rank treatments against each other, even for placebo-controlled studies, aiding evidence-based guideline formulation and clinical decision-making. Treatment registries are an important additional vehicle to collect ‘real-world’ data on the long-term (cost) effectiveness and safety of the new drugs, outside of the stringent and short-term settings of clinical trials. As further agents enter clinical practice, the need for biomarkers of treatment response and drug safety becomes more pressing to move us towards personalized medicine and to avoid wasting healthcare resources. This review takes stock of our current treatment armamentarium for atopic dermatitis, highlights important gaps in our knowledge – including the relatively low number of studies conducted in children – and maps out how our treatment approaches for atopic dermatitis can become more targeted and holistic in the future.