bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rosemary extract and rosmarinic acid accelerate elastic fiber formation by increasing the expression of elastic fiber components in dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Kasamatsu Shinya , Takano Kei , Aoki Mika , Takahashi Yoshito , Suzuki Tamio
Published: March 2024

Ultraviolet (UV)‐induced skin photoaging is caused by qualitative and quantitative degradation of dermal extracellular matrix components such as collagen and elastic fibers. Elastic fibers are important for maintaining cutaneous elasticity, despite their small amount in the skin. Previously, microfibril‐associated protein 4 (MFAP‐4), which is downregulated in photoaging dermis, has been found to be essential for elastic fiber formation by interaction with both fibrillin‐1 and elastin, which are core components of elastic fiber. In addition, enhanced cutaneous MFAP‐4 expression in a human skin‐xenografted murine photoaging model protects against UV‐induced photodamage accompanied by the prevention of elastic fiber degradation and aggravated elasticity. We therefore hypothesized that the upregulation of MFAP‐4 in dermal fibroblasts may more efficiently accelerate elastic fiber formation. We screened botanical extracts for MFAP‐4 expression‐promoting activity in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). We found that rosemary extract markedly promotes early microfibril formation and mature elastic fiber formation along with a significant upregulation of not only MFAP‐4 but also fibrillin‐1 and elastin in NHDFs. Furthermore, rosmarinic acid, which is abundant in rosemary extract, accelerated elastic fiber formation via upregulation of transforming growth factor β‐1. This was achieved by the induction of cAMP response element‐binding protein phosphorylation, demonstrating that rosmarinic acid represents one of the active ingredients in rosemary extract. Based on the findings in this study, we conclude that rosemary extract and rosmarinic acid represent promising materials that exert a preventive or ameliorative effect on skin photoaging by accelerating elastic fiber formation.
Long‐term changes in stream water chemistry in small forested watersheds in the northern Kanto region
Authors: Urakawa Rieko , Toda Hiroto , Cao Yue
Published: March 2024

Concerns have been raised regarding the degradation of stream water quality due to the excessive influx of atmospheric deposition. This study aimed to reveal the long‐term variation in stream water chemistry in approximately 40 forested small watersheds in the northern Kanto region, based on 3 surveys conducted in 1991–1992, 2006–2007, and 2022. The factors influencing each dissolved element were investigated. Regarding long‐term variations in stream water chemistry, relatively stable concentrations of cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, and Na+) and SiO2 were observed. However, the concentrations of anions (Cl−, , and ) decreased due to the improvement in the atmospheric environment and the diminishing effect of fertilization. Furthermore, the recent increase in stream water pH was attributed to an increase in bicarbonate (), compensating for the decrease in anion concentrations relative to cations. Geology was the most significant factor for inter‐watershed variations in cations and SiO2, and this influence remained relatively constant over 30 years. Forest practices, especially fertilization, had a significant effect on Cl− and , and contributed to higher concentrations in the fertilized watersheds than in the non‐fertilized watersheds over the 15 years following fertilization. Sulfate deposition was a significant influencing factor for , and the concentration fluctuated under long‐term variations in deposition over the past 30 years. Despite substantial acid deposition in the study area, the absence of stream water acidification could be attributed to the abundant cation supply from bedrock and volcanic ash, which underwent weathering processes.
Socioemotional Wealth and Family Firm Performance: The Moderating Role of CEO Tenure and Millennial CEO
Authors: Åberg Carl , Calabrò Andrea , Valentino Alfredo , Torchia Mariateresa
Published: March 2024

This study sheds light on how socioemotional wealth (SEW) theory functions in family firms. Focusing on the impact of the most highly appraised FIBER dimensions on the performance of such firms, we contextualize SEW by discussing the heterogeneity among family principals via the under‐researched role played by specific characteristics of family CEOs. Integrating arguments from SEW and generational theory, we test our theoretical hypotheses using global survey data from a sample of 1833 family firms from 33 countries. The main findings suggest that while family control and influence is not associated with performance, family members’ identification with the firm (FI) improves performance. Moreover, the positive impact of FI on family firm performance weakens in family firms with long‐tenured family CEOs. Finally, in family firms led by Millennial CEOs, the positive impact of FI on family firm performance is stronger. Our findings enrich both the theoretical insights into and practical comprehension of SEW priorities in relation to family firm performance, thereby underscoring the diverse performance outcomes associated with various types of family CEOs.
A rare case of tumor‐to‐tumor metastasis from thymic carcinoma to an ovarian mature teratoma
Authors: Sasada Tsuyoshi , Shirakawa Chigusa , Tachikawa Ryo , Yamashita Daisuke , Tomii Keisuke
Published: March 2024

Metastasis from one neoplasm to another is referred to as tumor‐to‐tumor metastasis (TTM). TTM is rarely observed. Here, we present a patient with TTM from a thymic carcinoma to an ovarian mature teratoma. A 25‐year‐old woman, diagnosed with unresectable thymic carcinoma, presented with a cyst with a solid tumor component in her right ovary. Laparoscopic cystectomy of the right ovary revealed that the solid tumor was a distant metastasis of the thymic carcinoma in an ovarian mature teratoma. The possibility of malignant transformation of the ovarian mature teratoma was ruled out, enabling accurate staging of the thymic carcinoma. This case emphasizes the need for clinicians to consider TTM and the importance of pathological confirmation of TTM when investigating potential distant metastases.
Diversity and function of fluorescent molecules in marine animals
Authors: Poding Lars H. , Jägers Peter , Herlitze Stefan , Huhn Mareike
Published: March 2024

Fluorescence in marine animals has mainly been studied in Cnidaria but is found in many different phyla such as Annelida, Crustacea, Mollusca, and Chordata. While many fluorescent proteins and molecules have been identified, very little information is available about the biological functions of fluorescence. In this review, we focus on describing the occurrence of fluorescence in marine animals and the behavioural and physiological functions of fluorescent molecules based on experimental approaches. These biological functions of fluorescence range from prey and symbiont attraction, photoprotection, photoenhancement, stress mitigation, mimicry, and aposematism to inter‐ and intraspecific communication. We provide a comprehensive list of marine taxa that utilise fluorescence, including demonstrated effects on behavioural or physiological responses. We describe the numerous known functions of fluorescence in anthozoans and their underlying molecular mechanisms. We also highlight that other marine taxa should be studied regarding the functions of fluorescence. We suggest that an increase in research effort in this field could contribute to understanding the capacity of marine animals to respond to negative effects of climate change, such as rising sea temperatures and increasing intensities of solar irradiation.
Eculizumab use throughout pregnancy in two patients with aquaporin‐4‐positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Fujimoto Takeshi , Maeda Yasuhiro
Published: March 2024

Background

Patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are at an increased risk of pregnancy complications. Lack of NMOSD treatment during pregnancy is a risk factor for relapse. Here, we report two cases of pregnant women with anti‐aquaporin‐4 antibody‐positive (AQP4+) NMOSD treated with eculizumab during pregnancy.

Case Presentation

Patient 1 was diagnosed with AQP4+ NMOSD 2 mo after giving birth to her first child. She was treated with tacrolimus and prednisolone, before switching to prednisolone monotherapy. Following concerns of teratogenicity associated with immunosuppressive therapy and oral steroid use, she began eculizumab treatment prior to a second pregnancy. When she became pregnant, eculizumab treatment was briefly paused while safety data were reviewed with her neurologist. A total of three doses were missed.

Patient 2 was diagnosed with AQP4+ NMOSD and began prednisolone treatment. Following a relapse, tacrolimus was added to her treatment regimen. Prior to pregnancy, she began eculizumab treatment alongside prednisolone and tacrolimus and maintained this regimen throughout her pregnancy.

No relapses or meningococcal infections occurred after eculizumab initiation in either patient, and both gave birth without complications to healthy babies. Patient 2 continues to receive eculizumab while breastfeeding.

Conclusions

We present two cases of pregnant women with AQP4+ NMOSD treated with eculizumab. Both women gave birth to healthy babies, have had no relapses since initiating eculizumab, and continued their treatment after birth. These cases are further evidence of the successful use of eculizumab during pregnancy.
Optimal design of colour formulation prediction for cotton fabrics based on NSGA‐II and TOPSIS
Authors: Zhou Zeyan , Lin Zijian , Ma Yue , Niu JiaRong , Liu Jianyong , Wang Xiaoyin
Published: March 2024

The prediction of colour formulation is an important step in reproducing the target colour. At present, there are relatively few researches on multi‐objective colour formulation problem, and the colour matching accuracy needs to be improved. In this research, a multi‐objective evolutionary meta‐heuristic method based on the Fast and Elitist Multi‐objective Genetic Algorithm (NSGA‐II) was proposed to predict the target colour recipes. The method used dye concentration as a variable and included three objective functions: (1) minimising the CMC (Colour Measurement Committee) colour difference between the formulation colour and the target colour, (2) minimising the metamerism index, and (3) minimising the cost of the formulation. The algorithm could obtain the Pareto optimal solution set after iteration. On this basis, the best combination of formulations was selected from the optimal solution set by combining the Expert Scoring Method (ESM), Entropy Weight Method (EWM) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The prediction effect of the model was evaluated by taking cotton fabrics and reactive dyes actually used in plant as examples. The results showed that 87.5% of the formulations met the CMC colour difference value of no more than 1, the metamerism index of 90.0% of the formulations did not exceed 1, and the cost of 92.5% of the formulations was reduced relative to the maximum extent in the Pareto optimal solution set. Further studies should be focused on removing duplicate individuals to give better diversity in the Pareto optimal solution set.
Effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation at left cymba concha on experimental pain as assessed with the nociceptive withdrawal reflex, and correlation with parasympathetic activity
Authors: Yokota Hirotake , Edama Mutsuaki , Kawanabe Yurika , Hirabayashi Ryo , Sekikne Chie , Akuzawa Hiroshi , Ishigaki Tomonobu , Otsuru Naofumi , Saito Kei , Kojima Sho , Miyaguchi Shota , Onishi Hideaki
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to clarify the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) to the left cymba concha on the pain perception using nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR), which is known to be associated with chronic pain, and to investigate whether there is a relationship between taVNS‐induced suppression of the NWR and parasympathetic activation. We applied either 3.0 mA, 100 Hz taVNS for 120 s on the left cymba concha (taVNS condition) or the left earlobe (Sham condition) for 20 healthy adults. NWR threshold was measured before (Baseline), immediately after (Post 0), 10 min (Post 10) and 30 min after (Post 30) stimulation. The NWR threshold was obtained from biceps femoris muscle by applying electrical stimulation to the sural nerve. During taVNS, electrocardiogram was recorded, and changes in autonomic nervous activity measured by heart rate variability (HRV) were analyzed. We found that the NWR thresholds at Post 10 and Post 30 increased compared with baseline in the taVNS group (10 min after: p = .008, 30 min after: p = .008). In addition, increased parasympathetic activity by taVNS correlated with a greater increase in NWR threshold at Post 10 and Post 30 (Post 10: p = .003; Post 30: p = .001). The present results of this single‐blinded study demonstrate the pain‐suppressing effect of taVNS on NWR threshold and suggest that the degree of parasympathetic activation during taVNS may predict the pain‐suppressing effect of taVNS after its application.
Isolation of an H2‐dependent electron‐bifurcating CO2‐reducing megacomplex with MvhB polyferredoxin from Methanothermobacter marburgensis
Authors: Nomura Shunsuke , Paczia Nicole , Kahnt Jörg , Shima Seigo
Published: March 2024

In the hydrogenotrophic methanogenic pathway, formylmethanofuran dehydrogenase (Fmd) catalyzes the formation of formylmethanofuran through reducing CO2. Heterodisulfide reductase (Hdr) provides two low potential electrons for the Fmd reaction using a flavin‐based electron‐bifurcating mechanism. [NiFe]‐hydrogenase (Mvh) or formate dehydrogenase (Fdh) complexes with Hdr and provides electrons to Hdr from H2 and formate, or the reduced form of F420, respectively. Recently, an Fdh‐Hdr complex was purified as a 3‐MDa megacomplex that contained Fmd, and its three‐dimensional structure was elucidated by cryo‐electron microscopy. In contrast, the Mvh‐Hdr complex has been characterized only as a complex without Fmd. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of a 1‐MDa Mvh‐Hdr‐Fmd megacomplex from Methanothermobacter marburgensis. After anion‐exchange and hydrophobic chromatography was performed, the proteins with Hdr activity eluted in the 1‐ and 0.5‐MDa fractions during size exclusion chromatography. Considering the apparent molecular mass and the protein profile in the fractions, the 1‐MDa megacomplex was determined to be a dimeric Mvh‐Hdr‐Fmd complex. The megacomplex fraction contained a polyferredoxin subunit MvhB, which contains 12 [4Fe‐4S]‐clusters. MvhB polyferredoxin has never been identified in the previously purified Mvh‐Hdr and Fmd preparations, suggesting that MvhB polyferredoxin is stabilized by the binding between Mvh‐Hdr and Fmd in the Mvh‐Hdr‐Fmd complex. The purified Mvh‐Hdr‐Fmd megacomplex catalyzed electron‐bifurcating reduction of [13C]‐CO2 to form [13C]‐formylmethanofuran in the absence of extrinsic ferredoxin. These results demonstrated that the subunits in the Mvh‐Hdr‐Fmd megacomplex are electronically connected for the reduction of CO2, which likely involves MvhB polyferredoxin as an electron relay.
Biocompatibility and bioactive potential of NeoPUTTY calcium silicate‐based cement: An in vivo study in rats
Authors: Silva Evelin Carine Alves , Pradelli Jéssica Arielli , da Silva Guilherme Ferreira , Cerri Paulo Sérgio , Tanomaru‐Filho Mario , Guerreiro‐Tanomaru Juliane Maria
Published: March 2024

Aim

To evaluate the inflammatory reaction and the ability to induce mineralization activity of a new repair material, NeoPUTTY (NPutty; NuSmile, USA), in comparison with Bio‐C Repair (BC; Angelus, Brazil) and MTA Repair HP (MTA HP; Angelus, Brazil).

Methodology

Polyethylene tubes were filled with materials or kept empty (control group, CG) and implanted in subcutaneous tissue of rats for 7, 15, 30, and 60 days (n = 6/group). Capsule thickness, number of inflammatory cells (ICs), fibroblasts, collagen content, and von Kossa analysis were performed. Unstained sections were evaluated under polarized light and by immunohistochemistry for osteocalcin (OCN). Data were submitted to two‐way anova followed by Tukey's test (p ≤ .05), except for OCN. OCN data were submitted to Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn and Friedman post hoc tests followed by the Nemenyi test at a significance level of 5%.

Results

At 7, 15, and 30 days, thick capsules containing numerous ICs were seen around the materials. At 60 days, a moderate inflammatory reaction was observed for NPutty, BC while MTA HP presented thin capsules with moderate inflammatory cells. In all periods, NPutty specimens contained the highest values of ICs (p < .05). From 7 to 60 days, the number of ICs reduced significantly while an increase in the number of fibroblasts and birefringent collagen content was observed. At 7 and 15 days, no significant difference was observed in the immunoexpression of OCN (p > .05). At 30 and 60 days, NPutty showed the lowest values of OCN (p < .05). At 60 days, a similar immunoexpression was observed for BC and MTA HP (p > .05). In all time intervals, capsules around NPutty, BC, and MTA HP showed von Kossa‐positive and birefringent structures.

Conclusions

Despite the greater inflammatory reaction promoted by NeoPutty than BC and MTA HP, the reduction in the thickness of capsules, the increase in the number of fibroblasts, and the reduction in the number of ICs indicate that this bioceramic material is biocompatible Furthermore, NeoPutty presents the ability to induce mineralization activity.
Real‐Life Comparison of Antivirals for SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron Infection in Patients With Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Aiello Tommaso Francesco , Peyrony Olivier , Chumbita Mariana , Monzó Patricia , Lopera Carlos , Puerta‐Alcalde Pedro , Magnano Laura , Fernández‐Avilés Francesc , Cuesta Genoveva , Tuset Montse , Mensa Josep , Esteve Jordi , Marcos Maria Angeles , Soriano Alex , Garcia‐Vidal Carolina
Published: March 2024

Background

We aimed to describe a cohort of hematologic patients with COVID‐19 treated with antivirals early.

Methods

Non‐interventional chart review study. Comparison of baseline characteristics and outcomes in high‐risk hematologic patients treated with remdesivir between December 2021 and April 2022 versus those treated with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir between May and August 2022.

Results

Eighty‐three patients were analyzed. Forty‐two received remdesivir, and 41 nirmatrelvir/ritonavir. Patients with remdesivir were younger, vaccinated with lower number of doses, and received prior corticosteroids less frequently and sotrovimab, hyperimmune plasma and corticosteroids more often. Viral shedding median (IQR) duration was 18 (13–23) and 11 (8–21) days in the remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir groups, respectively (p = 0.004). Median (IQR) Ct values before treatment were similar in both groups. Within 5 days of treatment, median (IQR) Ct values were 26 (23–29) and 33 (30–37) in the remdesivir and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). All patients were hospitalized for remdesivir administration and only four (9.8%) in the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir group. The overall outcomes in this cohort of COVID‐19 patients with Omicron variant was good, as no patient needed oxygen or ICU admission. One patient in remdesivir group died from septic shock. No severe adverse event was recorded in both treatment groups.

Conclusions

Patients with hematologic malignancies and non‐severe COVID‐19 who received nirmatrelvir/ritonavir experienced faster decrease in viral load and shorter viral shedding. Furthermore, besides the advantage of oral administration, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir administration reduced the need of hospital admission.
Improvement of palliative care for people with intellectual disabilities: A multi‐site evaluation
Authors: De Veer Anke J. E. , Voss Hille , Francke Anneke L. , de Man Y.
Published: March 2024

Background

To improve the quality of palliative care, six evidence‐based tools were implemented in 10 care services specialised in care for people with intellectual disabilities. Contextual differences were taken into account by using a participatory action research approach.

Method

The RE‐AIM framework (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) structured the evaluation. Data sources were online questionnaires completed by 299 professionals at baseline (response 45.2%) and 250 professionals after 2.5 years (35.1%), 11 semi‐structured group interviews with 43 professionals, field notes and implementation plans.

Results

A total of 767 professionals and 43 teams were reached. The effectiveness of the intervention was demonstrated in an improved knowledge of palliative care policy and increased competences among professionals. 79% of the professionals adopted tools in the toolbox. The participatory action research method was perceived as valuable in driving change.

Conclusions

Improving palliative care needs a context‐specific, flexible approach, with involvement of all stakeholders.
Association of tooth location, occlusal support and chewing ability with cognitive decline and incident dementia
Authors: Asher Sam , Suominen Anna Liisa , Stephen Ruth , Ngandu Tiia , Koskinen Seppo , Solomon Alina
Published: March 2024

Aim

Emerging evidence suggests association of tooth loss with impaired cognition. However, the differential effects of anterior versus posterior tooth loss, occlusal support loss and chewing ability are not considered comprehensively.

Materials and Methods

We conducted cross‐sectional (N = 4036) and longitudinal analyses (N = 2787) on data from Health 2000 and 2011 Surveys for associations of posterior occlusal support loss, anterior versus posterior tooth loss, and chewing ability with baseline cognition and 11‐year cognitive decline. Additionally, 15‐year incident dementia risk was investigated (N = 4073).

Results

After considering relevant confounders and potential reverse causality bias, posterior occlusal support loss significantly increased dementia risk across all categories indicative of posterior occlusal support loss (hazard ratios [HRs] between 1.99 and 2.89). Bilateral inadequate posterior occlusal support was associated with 11‐year decline in overall cognition (odds ratio [OR] = 1.48:1.00–2.19), and unilateral inadequate posterior occlusal support with total immediate (OR = 1.62:1.14–2.30) and delayed recall decline (OR = 1.45:1.03–2.05). Moreover, posterior tooth loss was associated with dementia (HR = 2.23:1.27–3.91) and chewing ability with total immediate decline (OR = 1.80:1.04–3.13).

Conclusions

Posterior tooth and occlusal support loss significantly increases dementia risk. The impact of posterior occlusal support loss appears to be dose‐dependent, and this effect is distinct from that of dentures. Dental healthcare services should be particularly attentive to the state of posterior dentition. Further studies exploring possible mechanisms are warranted.
The metamorphic footprint of western Laurentia preserved in subducted rocks from southern Australia
Authors: Brown Dillon A. , Morrissey Laura J. , Hand Martin , Mulder Jacob A. , Wade Benjamin , Barrote Vitor
Published: March 2024

Polymetamorphic metapelitic rocks in central‐west Tasmania, southern Australia, contain high‐pressure mineral assemblages that formed during Cambrian‐aged subduction and relict garnet with published Lu–Hf ages of c. 1285–1240 Ma. These garnet ages, along with published detrital zircon data from throughout western Tasmania and western North America, have been used to propose the presence of Mesoproterozoic Laurentian crust in western Tasmania. In this study, we combine zircon petrochronology with compositional information from the inclusion assemblages in relict garnet to extract Mesoproterozoic pressure–temperature data from subduction‐overprinted rocks, which effectively constitute an interpreted remnant of Laurentian crust now residing in central‐west Tasmania. The new data suggest Mesoproterozoic metamorphism involved two stages. The first event is recorded by c. 1480–1235 Ma zircon that formed in a garnet‐absent, plagioclase‐present, high‐thermal gradient environment at pressures no greater than ~5–5.5 kbar. The second event recorded by c. 1285–1240 Ma relict garnet was characterized by the development of a moderate‐pressure kyanite–plagioclase–biotite‐bearing mineral assemblage, which formed at ~8.5 kbar and ~590–680°C. These pressure–temperature constraints are attributed to extension within a deep basin system associated with the cryptic East Kootenay Orogeny in North America, which coincides with the final stages of c. 1450–1370 Ma upper Belt‐Purcell Basin sedimentation. Taking into account new detrital zircon U–Pb–Hf isotopic data from central‐west Tasmania in this study and existing zircon provenance data from throughout western Tasmania and the Belt‐Purcell Basin, our results strengthen the hypothesis of a Laurentian footprint that potentially encompasses much of western Tasmania and relates to both Nuna and Rodinian tectonism.
Short‐term personality development and early career success: Two longitudinal studies during the post‐graduation transition
Authors: Hotze Mary‐Louise , Liu Zihan , Chu Chu , Baranski Erica , Hoff Kevin A.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Investigate short‐term personality development during the post‐graduation transition.

Background

Prior research indicates that long‐term personality development matters for employment outcomes. However, this evidence is primarily limited to multi‐year longitudinal studies. This research switches the focus to personality changes during a shorter, impactful life transition.

Method

We examined how short‐term personality development during the 14‐month post‐graduation transition relates to early career outcomes among two diverse samples of graduates from universities (N = 816) and community colleges (N = 567). We used latent growth curve models to examine associations between career outcomes measured 14 months after graduation with initial personality levels and personality changes.

Results

Results revealed that mean‐level changes in personality were small and mostly negative. Moreover, individual differences in personality changes were not associated with career outcomes. However, initial levels of conscientiousness, emotional stability, and extraversion positively related to both subjective and objective career success. Initial levels of agreeableness were also positively related to subjective (but not objective) success.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that individual differences in personality trait levels at graduation are stronger predictors of early career success compared to short‐term personality changes during the post‐graduation transition. Taken together, these results help define the time sequence through which personality changes relate to career outcomes.
Investigating the effects of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) in mitigating endoplasmic reticulum stress and cellular responses in Pak choi
Authors: Ayaz Aliya , Jalal Abdul , Qian Zhou , Khan Khalid Ali , Liu Liwang , Hu Chunmei , Li Ying , Hou Xilin
Published: March 2024

The accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) within plant cells due to unfavourable conditions leads to ER stress. This activates interconnected pathways involving reactive oxygen species (ROS) and unfolded protein response (UPR), which play vital roles in regulating ER stress. The aim of this study is to investigate the underlying mechanisms of tunicamycin (TM) induced ER stress and explore the potential therapeutic applications of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) in mitigating cellular responses to ER stress in Pak choi (Brassica campestris subsp. chinensis). The study revealed that ER stress in Pak choi leads to detrimental effects on plant morphology, ROS levels, cellular membrane integrity, and the antioxidant defence system. However, treatment with TUDCA in TM‐induced ER stressed Pak choi improved morphological indices, pigment contents, ROS accumulation, cellular membrane integrity, and antioxidant defence system restoration. Additionally, TUDCA also modulates the transcription levels of ER stress sensors genes, ER chaperone genes, and ER‐associated degradation (ERAD) genes during ER stress in Pak choi. Furthermore, TUDCA has demonstrated its ability to alleviate ER stress, stabilize the UPR, reduce oxidative stress, prevent apoptosis, and positively influence plant growth and development. These results collectively comprehend TUDCA as a promising agent for mitigating ER stress‐induced damage in Pak choi plants and provide valuable insights for further research and potential applications in crop protection and stress management.
Are the P600 and P3 ERP components linked to the task‐evoked pupillary response as a correlate of norepinephrine activity?
Authors: Contier Friederike , Wartenburger Isabell , Weymar Mathias , Rabovsky Milena
Published: March 2024

During language comprehension, anomalies and ambiguities in the input typically elicit the P600 event‐related potential component. Although traditionally interpreted as a specific signal of combinatorial operations in sentence processing, the component has alternatively been proposed to be a variant of the oddball‐sensitive, domain‐general P3 component. In particular, both components might reflect phasic norepinephrine release from the locus coeruleus (LC/NE) to motivationally significant stimuli. In this preregistered study, we tested this hypothesis by relating both components to the task‐evoked pupillary response, a putative biomarker of LC/NE activity. 36 participants completed a sentence comprehension task (containing 25% morphosyntactic violations) and a non‐linguistic oddball task (containing 20% oddballs), while the EEG and pupil size were co‐registered. Our results showed that the task‐evoked pupillary response and the ERP amplitudes of both components were similarly affected by both experimental tasks. In the oddball task, there was also a temporally specific relationship between the P3 and the pupillary response beyond the shared oddball effect, thereby further linking the P3 to NE. Because this link was less reliable in the linguistic context, we did not find conclusive evidence for or against a relationship between the P600 and the pupillary response. Still, our findings further stimulate the debate on whether language‐related ERPs are indeed specific to linguistic processes or shared across cognitive domains. However, further research is required to verify a potential link between the two ERP positivities and the LC/NE system as the common neural generator.
Convergent and divergent parental emotion socialization processes shape children's emotional responding
Authors: DeLoretta Laura , Davis Elizabeth L.
Published: March 2024

Parents have an essential role in shaping children's emotional responses, a process called emotional socialization. Typically, researchers measure parental socialization behaviors via self‐report and in‐laboratory observations. However, the extent to which there is convergence between parents’ reported and enacted socialization practices is an open question. The aims of the current study were (1) to quantify the convergence/divergence in parents’ reported and enacted emotional socialization practices and (2) to analyze how convergence/divergence in specific parent socialization practices relates to children's emotional responding across different contexts (alone and with a parent). Participants were a diverse sample of 181 parent‐child dyads (children ages 3–11). We analyzed emotion socialization strategies (problem‐focused reactions, emotion‐focused reactions, expressive encouragement, punishing reactions, minimizing reactions, and distress reactions) as they related to children's behavioral and physiological responding to an emotional challenge. We found an overall pattern of divergence for most socialization strategies, but convergence for problem‐focused reactions. For children's observed distress, a convergent pattern of reported and enacted minimizing specifically was related to more distress while alone. For children's physiological reactivity, enacted problem‐solving was related to greater parasympathetic decreases across social context (from being alone to being with parent). Taken together, our findings suggest that convergence and divergence in parental emotional socialization practices may capture unique variability in how parents contextually respond to children's feelings, and children's emotional responding.
ɸ‐Agree with silent goals and the theory of interface effects*
Authors: Jarrah Marwan , Al‐Deaibes Mutasim , Hammouri Yazeed
Published: March 2024

This article provides evidence from Arabic (namely Modern Standard Arabic and Jordanian Arabic) that ɸ‐Agree with an element which undergoes a phonological deletion at PF, i.e., a pro, results in the occurrence of a ɸ‐inflection of the goal on the relevant probe. This occurrence is imposed by the effects of a suggested interface condition, named as The Agree Identification Condition, which requires a phonologically null goal to be ɸ‐identified through a co‐varying ɸ‐inflection on its probe. Such an analysis directly accounts for the intriguing observation that ɸ‐inflections in Arabic do not occur on heads (e.g., verbs and prepositions) when the latter ɸ‐agree with an overt DP. Additionally, this article shows that the effects of this condition do not arise when the Agree relation occurs between a probe and an unpronounced goal which is a member of a movement chain. When one link of the chain (e.g., the higher copy) is overt, no ɸ‐inflection of the goal would appear on the probe. This suggests that when a probe ɸ‐agrees with a goal which constitutes one link of a movement chain, the Agree relation holds between the probe and the whole chain.
SlWRKY81 regulates Spd synthesis and Na+/K+ homeostasis through interaction with SlJAZ1 mediated JA pathway to improve tomato saline‐alkali resistance
Authors: Shang Chunyu , Liu Xiaoyan , Chen Guo , Li Guobin , Hu Songshen , Zheng Hao , Ge Lei , Long Yanghao , Wang Qiaomei , Hu Xiaohui
Published: March 2024

Saline‐alkali stress is an important abiotic stress factor affecting tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plant growth. Although the involvement of the tomato SlWRKY gene family in responses to saline‐alkali stress has been well established, the mechanism underlying resistance to saline‐alkali stress remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of SlWRKY81 in conferring saline‐alkali stress resistance by using overexpression and knockout tomato seedlings obtained via genetic modification. We demonstrated that SlWRKY81 improves the ability of tomato to withstand saline‐alkali stress by enhancing antioxidant capacity, root activity, and proline content while reducing malondialdehyde levels. Saline‐alkali stress induces an increase in jasmonic acid (JA) content in tomato seedlings, and the SlWRKY81 promoter responds to JA signaling, leading to an increase in SlWRKY81 expression. Furthermore, the interaction between SlJAZ1 and SlWRKY81 represses the expression of SlWRKY81. SlWRKY81 binds to W‐box motifs in the promoter regions of SlSPDS2 and SlNHX4, thereby positively regulating their expression. This regulation results in increased spermidine (Spd) content and enhanced potassium (K+) absorption and sodium (Na+) efflux, which contribute to the resistance of tomato to saline‐alkali stress. However, JA and SlJAZ1 exhibit antagonistic effects. Elevated JA content reduces the inhibitory effect of SlJAZ1 on SlWRKY81, leading to the release of additional SlWRKY81 protein and further augmenting the resistance of tomato to saline‐alkali stress. In summary, the modulation of Spd synthesis and Na+/K+ homeostasis mediated by the interaction between SlWRKY81 and SlJAZ1 represents a novel pathway underlying tomato response to saline‐alkali stress.
Minimal surfaces with symmetries
Authors: Forstnerič Franc
Published: March 2024

Let be a finite group acting on a connected open Riemann surface by holomorphic automorphisms and acting on a Euclidean space by orthogonal transformations. We identify a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of a ‐equivariant conformal minimal immersion . We show in particular that such a map always exists if acts without fixed points on . Furthermore, every finite group arises in this way for some open Riemann surface and . We obtain an analogous result for minimal surfaces having complete ends with finite total Gaussian curvature, and for discrete groups acting on properly discontinuously and acting on by rigid transformations.
Comprehensive Flow Path Design Method for the Adaptive Cycle Engine Considering the Coupling Relation of Multiple Components
Authors: Xu Zhewen , Liu Xin , Chen Min , Tang Hailong , Zhang Jiyuan
Published: March 2024

The adaptive cycle engine (ACE) has multiple coupled components on the same spool and complex bypass system, which makes it have more complex intercomponent coupling relation and hard to coordinate in the flow path design. In this study, the coupling relation of the ACE components and the component reference conditions are analyzed and determined, a multicomponent collaborative optimization design method is proposed to enable the quantitative evaluation of flow path design solutions. In this method, two optimization strategies are presented based on the different priorities of the intercomponent size coupling parameters, the intercomponent aerodynamic coupling parameter and the component performance in the optimization problem. ACE flow path solutions for various feasible design speed combinations are generated automatically considering the component performance and intercomponent coupling relation. According to an ACE flow path design case study, the design physical rotational speeds of low-pressure spool (NL,d) and high-pressure spool (NH,d) should be 7000 to 7600 r/min and 10,000 to 15,000 r/min, respectively. At NH,d = 12,000 r/min and NL,d = 7200 r/min, the high-pressure compression components and the fan components could be designed with the lowest aerodynamic load, respectively. NH,d is the key factor affecting the axial length of ACE. This method can be applied to other gas power plant designs.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts produce matrix-bound vesicles that influence endothelial cell function
Authors: Santi Alice , Kay Emily J. , Neilson Lisa J. , McGarry Lynn , Lilla Sergio , Mullin Margaret , Paul Nikki R. , Fercoq Frédéric , Koulouras Grigorios , Rodriguez Blanco Giovanny , Athineos Dimitris , Mason Susan , Hughes Mark , Thomson Gemma , Kieffer Yann , Nixon Colin , Blyth Karen , Mechta-Grigoriou Fatima , Carlin Leo M. , Zanivan Sara
Published: March 2024

Intercellular communication between different cell types in solid tumors contributes to tumor growth and metastatic dissemination. The secretome of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) plays major roles in these processes. Using human mammary CAFs, we showed that CAFs with a myofibroblast phenotype released extracellular vesicles that transferred proteins to endothelial cells (ECs) that affected their interaction with immune cells. Mass spectrometry–based proteomics identified proteins transferred from CAFs to ECs, which included plasma membrane receptors. Using THY1 as an example of a transferred plasma membrane–bound protein, we showed that CAF-derived proteins increased the adhesion of a monocyte cell line to ECs. CAFs produced high amounts of matrix-bound EVs, which were the primary vehicles of protein transfer. Hence, our work paves the way for future studies that investigate how CAF-derived matrix-bound EVs influence tumor pathology by regulating the function of neighboring cancer, stromal, and immune cells.
CSPG4-dependent cytotoxicity for
C. difficile
TcdB is influenced by extracellular calcium and chondroitin sulfate
Authors: Doyle D. Annie , DeAngelis Paul L. , Ballard Jimmy D.
Published: March 2024

TcdB is an intracellular bacterial toxin indispensable to
Clostridioides difficile
infections. The ability to use chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4) as a primary cell surface receptor is evolutionarily conserved by the two major variants of TcdB. As CSPG4 does not typically undergo receptor-mediated endocytosis, we sought to identify environmental factors that stabilize interactions between TcdB and CSPG4 to promote cell binding and entry into the cytosol. Using a series of TcdB receptor-binding mutants and cell lines with various receptor expression profiles, we discovered that extracellular Ca
2+
promotes receptor-specific interactions with TcdB. Specifically, TcdB exhibits preferential binding to CSPG4 in the presence of Ca
2+
, with the absence of Ca
2+
resulting in CSPG4-independent cell surface interactions. Furthermore, Ca
2+
did not enhance TcdB binding to chondroitin sulfate (CS), the sole glycosaminoglycan of CSPG4. Instead, CS was found to impact the rate of cell entry by TcdB. Collectively, results from this study indicate that Ca
2+
enhances cell binding by TcdB and CS interactions contribute to subsequent steps in cell entry.

IMPORTANCE

Clostridioides difficile
is a leading cause of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal illness, and many disease pathologies are caused by the toxin TcdB. TcdB engages multiple cell surface receptors, with receptor tropisms differing among the variants of the toxin. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4) is a critical receptor for multiple forms of TcdB, and insights into TcdB–CSPG4 interactions are applicable to many disease-causing strains of
C. difficile
. CSPG4 is modified by chondroitin sulfate (CS) and contains laminin-G repeats stabilized by Ca
2+
, yet the relative contributions of CS and Ca
2+
to TcdB cytotoxicity have not been determined. This study demonstrates distinct roles in TcdB cell binding and cell entry for Ca
2+
and CS, respectively. These effects are specific to CSPG4 and contribute to the activities of a prominent isoform of TcdB that utilizes this receptor. These findings advance an understanding of factors contributing to TcdB’s mechanism of action and contribution to
C. difficile
disease.
Inhibition of inosine metabolism of the gut microbiota decreases testosterone secretion in the testis
Authors: Tang Lei , Yang Xizhong , Zhou Mengting , Feng Lingxin , Ji Cuijie , Liang Jie , Zhang Bei , Shen Ruowu , Wang Luoyang
Published: March 2024

Growing evidence indicates that gut microbiota is involved in the regulation of the host’s sex hormone levels, such as through interfering with the sex hormone metabolism in the intestine. However, if gut microbiota or its metabolites directly influence the sex hormone biosynthesis in the gonad remains largely unknown. Our previous study showed that colistin, as a narrow-spectrum antibiotic, can significantly downregulate the serum testosterone levels and thus enhance the antitumor efficiency of anti-PD-L1 in male mice; however, the underlying mechanism for the regulation of the host’s testosterone levels remains uninvestigated. In the present study, we analyzed the impact of colistin on the immune microenvironment of the testis as well as the composition and metabolism of gut microbiota in male mice. Our results showed that colistin has an impact on the immune microenvironment of the testis and can downregulate serum testosterone levels in male mice through inhibition of
Akkermansia
, leading to destroyed inosine metabolism. Supplement with inosine can restore testosterone secretion probably by prompting the recovery of the intestinal mucus barrier and the serum lipopolysaccharides levels. All these findings reveal a new pathway for the regulation of the host’s sex hormone levels by gut microbiota.

IMPORTANCE

This study demonstrates that exposure to even narrow-spectrum antibiotics may affect the host’s testosterone levels by altering the gut microbiota and its metabolites. Our findings provide evidence that some specific gut bacteria have an impact on the sex hormone biosynthesis in the testis.
Diversity and distribution of biosynthetic gene clusters in agricultural soil microbiomes
Authors: Zhang Zhiguo , Zhang Lu , Zhang Lihan , Chu Haiyan , Zhou Jizhong , Ju Feng
Published: March 2024

Bacterial secondary metabolites serve as an important source of molecules for drug discovery. They also play an important function in mediating the interactions of microbial producers with their living environment and surrounding organisms. However, little is known about the genetic novelty, distribution, and community-level impacts of soil bacterial biosynthetic potential on a large geographic scale. Here, we constructed the first catalog of 11,149 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) from agricultural soils across China and unearthed hidden biosynthetic potential for new natural product discovery from the not-yet-cultivated soil bacteria. Notably, we revealed soil pH as the strongest environmental driver of BGC biogeography and predicted that soil acidification and global climate change could damage the biosynthetic potential of the soil microbiome. The co-occurrence network of bacterial genomes revealed two BGC-rich species, i.e.,
Nocardia niigatensis
from Actinobacteriota and
PSRF01
from Acidobacteriota, as the module hub and connector, respectively, indicating their keystone positions in the soil microbial communities. We also uncovered a dominant role of BGC-inferred biotic interactions over environmental drivers in structuring the soil microbiome. Overall, this study achieved novel insights into the BGC landscape in agricultural soils of China, substantially expanding our understanding of the diversity and novelty of bacterial secondary metabolism and the potential role of secondary metabolites in microbiota assembly.

IMPORTANCE

Bacterial secondary metabolites not only serve as the foundation for numerous therapeutics (e.g., antibiotics and anticancer drugs), but they also play critical ecological roles in mediating microbial interactions (e.g., competition and communication). However, our knowledge of bacterial secondary metabolism is limited to only a small fraction of cultured strains, thus restricting our comprehensive understanding of their diversity, novelty, and potential ecological roles in soil ecosystems. Here, we used culture-independent metagenomics to explore biosynthetic potentials in agricultural soils of China. Our analyses revealed a high degree of genetic diversity and novelty within biosynthetic gene clusters in agricultural soil environments, offering valuable insights for biochemists seeking to synthesize novel bioactive products. Furthermore, we uncovered the pivotal role of BGC-rich species in microbial communities and the significant relationship between BGC richness and microbial phylogenetic turnover. This information emphasizes the importance of biosynthetic potential in the assembly of microbial communities.