bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PDX proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana as novel substrates of cathepsin B: implications for vitamin B6 biosynthesis regulation
Authors: Parra Marcelina , Coppola Marianna , Hellmann Hanjo
Published: March 2024

Vitamin B6 is a critical molecule for metabolism, development, and stress sensitivity in plants. It is a cofactor for numerous biochemical reactions, can serve as an antioxidant, and has the potential to increase tolerance against both biotic and abiotic stressors. Due to the importance of vitamin B6, its biosynthesis is likely tightly regulated. Plants can synthesize vitamin B6 de novo via the concerted activity of Pyridoxine Biosynthesis Protein 1 (PDX1) and PDX2. Previously, PDX proteins have been identified as targets for ubiquitination, indicating they could be marked for degradation by two highly conserved pathways: the Ubiquitin Proteasome Pathway (UPP) and the autophagy pathway. Initial experiments show that PDXs are in fact degraded, but surprisingly, in a ubiquitin‐independent manner. Inhibitor studies pointed toward cathepsin B, a conserved lysosomal cysteine protease, which is implicated in both programed cell death and autophagy in humans and plants. In plants, cathepsin Bs are poorly described, and no confirmed substrates have been identified. Here, we present PDX proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana as interactors and substrates of a plant Cathepsin B. These findings not only describe a novel cathepsin B substrate in plants, but also provide new insights into how plants regulate de novo biosynthesis of vitamin B6.
Network‐based analysis predicts interacting genetic modifiers from a meta‐mapping study of spike–wave discharge in mice
Authors: Lara Montana Kay , Brabec Jeffrey L. , Hernan Amanda E. , Scott Rod C. , Tyler Anna L. , Mahoney J. Matthew
Published: March 2024

Absence seizures are characterized by brief lapses in awareness accompanied by a hallmark spike‐and‐wave discharge (SWD) electroencephalographic pattern and are common to genetic generalized epilepsies (GGEs). While numerous genes have been associated with increased risk, including some Mendelian forms with a single causal allele, most cases of GGE are idiopathic and there are many unknown genetic modifiers of GGE influencing risk and severity. In a previous meta‐mapping study, crosses between transgenic C57BL/6 and C3HeB/FeJ strains, each carrying one of three SWD‐causing mutations (Gabrg2tm1Spet(R43Q), Scn8a8j or Gria4spkw1), demonstrated an antagonistic epistatic interaction between loci on mouse chromosomes 2 and 7 influencing SWD. These results implicate universal modifiers in the B6 background that mitigate SWD severity through a common pathway, independent of the causal mutation. In this study, we prioritized candidate modifiers in these interacting loci. Our approach integrated human genome‐wide association results with gene interaction networks and mouse brain gene expression to prioritize candidate genes and pathways driving variation in SWD outcomes. We considered candidate genes that are functionally associated with human GGE risk genes and genes with evidence for coding or non‐coding allele effects between the B6 and C3H backgrounds. Our analyses output a summary ranking of gene pairs, one gene from each locus, as candidates for explaining the epistatic interaction. Our top‐ranking gene pairs implicate microtubule function, cytoskeletal stability and cell cycle regulation as novel hypotheses about the source of SWD variation across strain backgrounds, which could clarify underlying mechanisms driving differences in GGE severity in humans.
Modelling assessment of resource competition for renewable basic chemicals and the effect of recycling
Authors: Musonda Frazer , Millinger Markus , Thrän Daniela
Published: March 2024

This work assesses pathways towards a net‐zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions chemical industry sector in Germany until 2050, focusing on the ammonia, methanol, ethylene and adipic acid subsectors and the effect of the recycling of C embedded in chemical end products on the GHG abatement cost and primary resource demand. This was done using a bottom‐up mathematical optimization model, including the energy sectors and the chemicals sector, with electricity and biobased options considered. Results show that net‐zero GHG emissions for the considered chemicals in 2050 are attainable at a marginal cost of 640–900 €/tCO2‐eq, even with 26%–36% of demand being satisfied by fossil production routes. This is possible because renewable organic chemicals can act as carbon sinks if, at their end of life, C is permanently stored via landfilling or passed on to the next value chain via recycling. Nonetheless, considering the cost implications, the practical deployment of renewable chemicals is a challenge. The considered renewable chemicals cost 1.3–8 times more than their fossil counterparts, resulting in a marginal CO2 price of 480 €/tCO2‐eq when all primary resources (energy crops, forest residues and renewable electricity) are considered, or 810 €/tCO2‐eq when the availability of arable land is restricted. In the transition to net‐zero emissions for the chemicals under study, a circular economy is important not only for reducing demand for primary resources as is typically the case but also reduces GHG abatement costs by 13%–24% through carbon capture and utilization effects.
Chilled storage study of marinated and vacuum‐packed steaks of Otolithes cuvieri (Trewavas, 1974)
Authors: Parmar Bhaviksinh K. , Mohite Ashis S. , Pathan Dabir Iqbal , Desai Ajay S. , Wasave Suhas M.
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the potential of marination in extending the shelf life of vacuum‐packed croaker fish (Otolithes cuvieri, Trewavas, 1974) steaks by evaluating their organoleptic, biochemical and microbiological characteristics under chilled storage conditions (4 ± 1 °C) for 21 days. The marination process involves the use of natural preservatives such as salt, vinegar and spices, aiming to enhance flavour and texture. Results demonstrated that marination effectively reduces the rate of increase in total plate count (TPC), trimethylamine nitrogen (TMA‐N), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), pH, peroxide value (PV) and free fatty acids (FFA) during storage, thereby extending the shelf life of the tested samples. Control (C) and marinated (M) samples of vacuum‐packed fish steaks remained organoleptically acceptable until the 9th and 15th days of chilled storage respectively. Due to the addition of marinating ingredients, significant changes were observed in taste, texture and proximate content. The maximum extension in shelf life for marinated samples is attributed to the combined antimicrobial and antioxidative effects of the different ingredients used in the marination process. These findings suggest that marination holds promise as a method for preserving fish products and satisfying consumer preferences for flavourful, ready‐to‐cook and economically viable seafood options.
Valorisation of sweet potato leaves as a potential agri‐food resource: Assessing nutritional and nutraceutical values altered by food processing—A review
Authors: Yi Junpeng , Li Luyao , Li Xin , Duan Xu , Wang Junling , Han Yuxin , Gao Yan
Published: March 2024

Sweet potato leaves are rich in nutrients and bioactive substances. They are commonly utilised as human foodstuff in some Asian, African and North American countries. Leafy vegetables are generally processed through domestic cooking or industrial processing techniques before consumption. This paper reviews the available literature on the nutritional composition and phytochemical profile, along health benefits of processed sweet potato leaves. Discussion on the applications of sweet potato leaves as a valuable fortifying ingredient in a variety of food formulations is included. Domestic cooking resulted in a substantial increase in protein content at optimal conditions but led to a significant loss of bioactive compounds. Vacuum freeze‐drying retained most of nutrients and caffeoylquinic acid derivatives. Fermentation and supplementation as fortifying ingredients in food formulations could improve the nutritional status and sensory characteristics of the final products. This review can facilitate the development of an integrated plant for the valorisation of sweet potato agro‐industrial residues and aid the food industry in obtaining fortified foods with sweet potato leaf loaded.
The mechanisms of various hydrocolloids regulating the quality and starch digestibility of whole rye bread
Authors: Weng Yexun , Yang Yueyue , Jin Zhengyu , Yu Ruirui , Jiao Aiquan
Published: March 2024

The in vitro effects of six hydrophilic colloids on bread flour properties, rheological properties, water distribution, microstructure, baking quality and starch digestibility were examined. The incorporation of xanthan gum (XG), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), apple pectin powder (APCT) and Curdlan gum (CDL) into rye dough was observed to enhance the gluten network and reduce the gelatinisation and ageing. The addition of APCT and CDL improved softness and ductility and resulted in more complete and orderly protein network of the rye dough than when XG, trehalose (THL) and CDL were added. The addition of THL and XG increased the specific volume, softened the texture of the rye bread and decreased the blood glucose index by approximately 5%. In conclusion, the addition of six common hydrophilic colloids may enhance the quality of bread, albeit with a reduction in the in vitro starch digestibility of rye bread.
Effect of replacing olive oil with oil blends on physicochemical and sensory properties of taralli
Authors: Pasini Federica , Marzocchi Silvia , Ravagli Cesare , Cuomo Francesca , Messia Maria Cristina , Marconi Emanuele , Caboni Maria Fiorenza
Published: March 2024

Edible fats and oils are usually considered in the production of bakery products for technological and sensory reasons, but the nutritional and economic aspects and the oxidative stability of the final product must also be taken into account. Four different oil blends (high oleic sunflower oil, 87.5% extra virgin olive oil + 12.5% sunflower oil, 75% extra virgin olive oil + 25% rice oil and 87.5% high oleic sunflower oil + 12.5% coconut oil) were used in the production of taralli as an extra virgin olive oil alternative. The lipid fraction, texture and sensory characteristics, and oxidative evaluation of the final products were studied. The use of the oil blend made of 75% extra virgin olive oil and 25% rice oil gave the best compromise for the content of sterols and tocols resulting in a combination that was able to achieve an induction period, in the accelerated oxidation test, that was comparable to that of the reference control made with extra virgin olive oil only.
Physicochemical, antioxidant and microbial stability of Burdekin plum leathers
Authors: Chen Gengning , Mantilla Sandra Milena Olarte , Netzel Michael E. , Cozzolino Daniel , Sivakumar Dharini , Sultanbawa Yasmina
Published: March 2024

Burdekin plums (BP) are the fruits of Pleiogynium timoriense (DC.) Leenh, a tree native to Australia. In this study, BP fruit leathers were developed by blending BP puree with apple puree (0%–80% levels) to make five formulations of BP fruit leathers (100BP, 80BP, 60BP, 40BP, 20BP). Physicochemical parameters and microbial stability of fruit leathers were studied during six‐month storage at ambient conditions (temperature 16–25 °C, humidity 60%–77%). Results showed that BP leathers had a water activity from 0.60 to 0.64 and moisture content from 21% to 25%, and both were stable during storage. 20BP had the highest score for all colour parameters measured and had the lowest value in hardness. Reduction in redness and chroma and an increase in hue were observed in all leathers after storage. The total content of cyanidin 3‐galactoside and cyanidin 3‐glucoside decreased from 400–1600 mg/kg DW to 100–500 mg/kg DW after processing into leathers then to 9–70 mg/kg DW after storage. A decrease in catechins was also observed after puree was processed into leather and after the 6 months of storage, whereas an increase in gallic acid, ellagic acid, quercetin 3‐glucoside, trigalloylglucose was observed particularly in 20BP. Total phenolic content (ranging from 6 to 24 mg GAE/g DW) and antioxidant capacity (ranging from 80 to 240 μmol Fe2+/g DW) remained relatively stable after processing and storage with a slight reduction in 80BP and 100BP. Fruit leathers were microbiologically safe and shelf‐stable during the 6 months of storage. These results demonstrated the potential of BP to be processed into shelf‐stable fruit leathers rich in bioactive phenolics.
Protein hydrolysates from buffalo cheese whey: production and characterisation for food supplementation
Authors: Grando Lauren Mazutti , Fassina Patricia , Leonhardt Fernanda , Ethur Eduardo Miranda , Neutzling Lehn Daniel , Goettert Márcia Inês , Volken de Souza Claucia Fernanda
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study was to obtain protein hydrolysates from buffalo cheese whey proteins and characterise them. Degrees of hydrolysis ranged between 10% and 16% depending on processing time. The hydrolysate obtained after 12 h showed a low water activity value (<0.4), and the lowest moisture content (4.88% w/w), besides demonstrating better solubility, and enhanced emulsion stability. The hydrolysate obtained after an 18‐h process exhibited higher foam production capacity. In vitro, protein digestibility values of the hydrolysates ranged from 25% to 27% (w/w). Prolonging the hydrolysis (18 h) of the buffalo whey proteins with Flavourzyme resulted in a greater release of amino acids. The hydrolysate obtained after a 12‐h process exhibited the best techno‐functional characteristics (moisture, oil holding capacity, and emulsion stability), while the 18‐h showed the highest levels of branched‐chain amino acids. The characteristics of these hydrolysates enable their use in the production of supplements, providing another strategy for bubaline whey utilisation.
Women's career development through everyday life in post‐war Japan: Survey of the Shufuren (the Japanese Association of Consumer Organizations)
Authors: Hama Takako
Published: March 2024

This paper explores the career development process of women in postwar Japan who belonged to the Shufuren (the Association of Consumer Organization), the homemakers' federation, and who became experts in everyday life through studying and researching to improve their lives. It analyzes the organizational chart, hours and fundings for activities, details of activities, formation of the cooperative relationships, and career development of the leaders. The women who gathered at the Shufuren studied and researched the issues that arose in daily lives. By accumulating survey and research data and presenting scientific evidence, they made requests and proposals for improvements to the Diet, governments, and industries. Through these activities, they contributed to establish laws and systems protecting consumer rights. The women also developed partnerships with other civic groups in sharing current social issues. They expanded the circle of the movement and asserted their demands to the Diet, government agencies, industries, and the public. The members grew as experts in everyday life by steadily building their careers with passion for daily activities. Their activities were not limited to the Shufuren; some women went beyond the Shufuren to become leaders of organizations. Conventionally, homemakers are viewed as not having career development aspirations. When discussing women's career development in Japan, attention has focused on career development through work and balancing work and family life. However, the activities and steps taken by the female members of the Shufuren to improve their lives should also be considered a form of career development.
Diagnosis and subtyping of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies: caution required in the use of myositis autoantibodies
Authors: Anderson Hamish T. , O'Donnell John L. , Tustin Paul , Steele Richard
Published: March 2024

Detection of myositis autoantibodies (MAs) has utility in both the diagnosis and subtyping of idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs). Multiplex assays such as the Euroimmun line immunoassay (LIA) have significant limitations in rare diseases like IIM. A retrospective cohort study was performed on positive MA detected on LIA in 171 patients using the manufacturer's recommended cut‐off. Only 16.7% were deemed true positive after clinical correlation. Autoantibody‐specific cut‐offs were created and applied to the original cohort, along with generically applied higher cut‐offs. Positive predictive value (PPV) improved, but there was variable increase in false negatives. False positive MA results are common using LIA, but locally derived cut‐offs can improve performance. Clinicians must be aware of the limitations of LIA, which is the commonest method for MA detection in Australasia.
RETRACTED: The effect of traditional Chinese medicine soaking method on the healing of diabetic foot ulcers: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Han Jintao , Shen Jiani , Ling Boyue
Published: March 2024

Foot infections, sores or deep tissue damage from diabetes can be a serious psychological and physical injury. This paper aims at making meta‐analyses on the therapeutic effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on diabetic foot ulcers. The Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database, Wanfang Database and so on, has conducted a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the clinical effect of TCM soaking method for diabetes patients with diabetes. Literature has been determined to be included by computer search and by hand rough checks. The search period was from the creation of the database to October 2023. Review Manager 5.3 was used to analyse the meta data and evaluate it systematically. Altogether, 479 research was conducted in China's data base and 20 of them were eventually collected for the final statistical analysis. In all, 1361 patients were enrolled in the trials. The results indicated that TCM immersion in diabetic foot resulted in significantly improved obvious wound healing (OR, 3.2; 95% CI, 2.5, 4.09, p < 0.0001); results showed that TCM immersion therapy significantly increased the efficiency of effective wound healing (OR, 4.55; 95% CI, 3.25, 6.37, p < 0.001). Statistical significance was found. Using Egger's approach to detect publishing bias suggests that there is no risk of publishing bias in terms of marked wound healing and effective healing. Traditional Chinese drug immersion can increase obviously the recovery ratio and the effective recovery ratio of diabetic foot.
Overexpression of malic enzyme is involved in breast cancer growth and is correlated with poor prognosis
Authors: Hu Wan‐Chung , Yang Yi‐Fang , Cheng Ching‐Feng , Tu Ya‐Ting , Chang Hong‐Tai , Tsai Kuo‐Wang
Published: March 2024

Malic enzyme (ME) genes are key functional metabolic enzymes playing a crucial role in carcinogenesis. However, the detailed effects of ME gene expression on breast cancer progression remain unclear. Here, our results revealed ME1 expression was significantly upregulated in breast cancer, especially in patients with oestrogen receptor/progesterone receptor‐negative and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‐positive breast cancer. Furthermore, upregulation of ME1 was significantly associated with more advanced pathological stages (p < 0.001), pT stage (p < 0.001) and tumour grade (p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed ME1 upregulation was associated with poor disease‐specific survival (DSS: p = 0.002) and disease‐free survival (DFS: p = 0.003). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed ME1 upregulation was significantly correlated with poor DSS (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.08–2.52; p = 0.021) and DFS (AHR, 1.57; 95% CI: 1.03–2.41; p = 0.038). Stratification analysis indicated ME1 upregulation was significantly associated with poor DSS (p = 0.039) and DFS (p = 0.038) in patients with non‐triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, ME1 expression did not affect the DSS of patients with TNBC. Biological function analysis revealed ME1 knockdown could significantly suppress the growth of breast cancer cells and influence its migration ability. Furthermore, the infiltration of immune cells was significantly reduced when they were co‐cultured with breast cancer cells with ME1 knockdown. In summary, ME1 plays an oncogenic role in the growth of breast cancer; it may serve as a potential biomarker of progression and constitute a therapeutic target in patients with breast cancer.
Supplementing probiotics during intermittent fasting proves more effective in restoring ileum and colon tissues in aged rats
Authors: Teker Hikmet Taner , Ceylani Taha , Keskin Seda , Samgane Gizem , Allahverdi Hüseyin , Acikgoz Eda , Gurbanov Rafig
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to explore the impact of SCD Probiotics supplementation on biomolecule profiles and histopathology of ileum and colon tissues during a 30‐day intermittent fasting (IF) program. Male Sprague–Dawley rats, aged 24 months, underwent 18‐h daily fasting and received 3 mL (1 × 108 CFU) of SCD Probiotics. The differences in biomolecule profiles were determined using FTIR Spectroscopy and two machine learning techniques, Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Support Vector Machine (SVM), which showed significant differences with high accuracy rates. Spectrochemical bands indicating alterations in lipid, protein and nucleic acid profiles in both tissues. The most notable changes were observed in the group subjected to both IF and SCD Probiotics, particularly in the colon. Both interventions, individually and in combination, decreased protein carbonylation levels. SCD Probiotics exerted a more substantial impact on membrane dynamics than IF alone. Additionally, both IF and SCD Probiotics were found to have protective effects on intestinal structure and stability by reducing mast cell density and levels of TNF‐α and NF‐κB expression in ileum and colon tissues, thus potentially mitigating age‐related intestinal damage and inflammation. Furthermore, our results illustrated that while IF and SCD Probiotics individually instigate unique changes in ileum and colon tissues, their combined application yielded more substantial benefits. This study provides evidence for the synergistic potential of IF and SCD Probiotics in combating age‐related intestinal alterations.
Border Regions as Nuclei of European Integration? Evidence From Germany
Authors: Rehm Moritz , Schröder Martin , Wenzelburger Georg
Published: March 2024

What role do border regions play in fostering a European identity? The European Union considers them relevant places of integration and has dedicated €10 billion to cross‐border co‐operation between 2014 and 2020. This action relies on the idea that border regions are hot spots of integration, as they allow citizens to engage in transnational activities, stimulating a sense of cross‐border community, which is said to increase attachment to Europe. However, it remains unclear whether individuals in border regions are indeed more attached to Europe, as theory would predict. We address this research question by comparing the attachment to Europe of 25,257 German border and non‐border residents, analysing several factors that could impact attachment to Europe in these regions. Our results indicate that living in a border region is unrelated to increased attachment to Europe. This finding casts doubt on the thesis of border regions as hot spots of an emerging European identity.
Factors associated with dietitian referrals to support long‐term care residents advancing towards the end of life
Authors: Morrison‐Koechl Jill , Heckman George , Banerjee Albert , Keller Heather
Published: March 2024

Background

Dietitians are central members of the multidisciplinary long‐term care (LTC) healthcare team. The overall aim of this current investigation is to gain a better understanding of dietitian involvement in LTC resident's end‐of‐life care via referrals.

Methods

Retrospective chart reviews for 164 deceased residents (mean age = 88.3 ± 7.3; 61% female) in 18 LTC homes in Ontario, Canada, identified dietitian referrals and documented eating challenges recorded over 2‐week periods at four time points (i.e., 6 months, 3 months, 1 month and 2 weeks) prior to death. Nutrition care plans at the beginning of these time points were also noted. Logistic mixed effects regression models identified time‐varying predictors of dietitian referrals. Bivariate tests identified associations between nutrition orders and dietitian referrals that occurred in the last month of life.

Results

Nearly three‐quarters (73%) of participants had at least one dietitian referral across the four observations. Referrals increased significantly with proximity to death; 45% of residents had a referral documented in the last 2 weeks of life. Dietitian referrals were associated with the number of eating challenges (odds ratio [OR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27, 1.58). Comfort‐focused nutrition care orders were significantly more common when a dietitian was referred (25%) compared with when a dietitian was not referred (12%) in the final month of life (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that dietitians are involved in end‐of‐life and comfort‐focused nutrition care initiatives, yet they are not engaged consistently for this purpose. This presents a significant opportunity for dietitians to upskill and champion palliative approaches to nutrition care within the multidisciplinary LTC team.
Price Squeezes as an Exploitative Abuse*
Authors: Chen Zhijun
Published: March 2024

The exclusionary theory of price squeezes, commonly debated in courts and among legal scholars, faces significant challenges. This paper introduces an exploitative rationale for price squeezes. A vertically integrated firm can exploit efficiency gains from a downstream competitor, thereby earning more than the monopoly profit, and price squeezing emerges as a necessary condition for such exploitation. Prohibiting price squeezes benefits the competitor and improves production efficiency, but may also lead to unintended, perverse effects. This paper lays an economic foundation for analyzing price squeeze cases and contributes to reconciling the divergence in the case laws between the United States and the European Union.
Distribution and diversity of emergent Banana bunchy top virus infecting banana and plantain in Cameroon, Central Africa
Authors: Ngatat Sergine , Hanna Rachid , Doumtsop Fotio Armand R. P. , Lienou Jules A. , Nanga Nanga Samuel , Fotso Kuate Apollin , Osundahunsi Bolaji , Fiaboe Komi K. M. , Ndemba Bertrand , Dossa Gerbert S. , Alabi Tunrayo , Kumar P. Lava
Published: March 2024

Invasions of arthropod vectors and viruses are the main factors associated with emerging plant viral diseases. The presence of the Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV, genus Babuvirus), an aphid‐transmitted virus responsible for the banana bunchy top disease (BBTD), was first confirmed in 2008 in the South region of Cameroon. This study reports on surveys over 14 years to determine the status of BBTV spread and virus diversity in Cameroon. A total of 544 fields extending through 81 districts in 7 regions were surveyed in 5 phases: (1) 2009–10, (2) 2012, (3) 2013–14, (4) 2016–17, and (5) 2022. BBTV was detected in 36 sites, all located in the Ambam district in the South region, with an incidence in the virus‐affected fields ranging from 5% to 40%, with an average incidence of 14.8%. The findings indicate BBTV expansion from the location of first detection in 2008 to about 4–25 km in all directions, with the virus spread range of about 700 km2, as of the last survey in 2022. Phylogenetic analysis using complete nucleotide sequences of the BBTV‐R and BBTV‐S gene aligned Cameroon isolates with the sub‐Saharan Africa subgroup of the Pacific‐Indian Oceans (PIO) group of BBTV isolates, suggesting a likely virus invasion from neighbouring central African countries where BBTV presence had been reported in the 1980s. Knowledge of BBTV distribution provided through the detection and delimiting surveys has contributed to the efficient targeting of interventions to limit the expansion of an emerging virus threat to banana production in Cameroon.
Transcriptional responses to salinity‐induced changes in cell wall morphology of the euryhaline diatom Pleurosira laevis
Authors: Kamakura Shiho , Bilcke Gust , Sato Shinya
Published: March 2024

Diatoms are unicellular algae with morphologically diverse silica cell walls, which are called frustules. The mechanism of frustule morphogenesis has attracted attention in biology and nanomaterials engineering. However, the genetic regulation of the morphology remains unclear. We therefore used transcriptome sequencing to search for genes involved in frustule morphology in the centric diatom Pleurosira laevis, which exhibits morphological plasticity between flat and domed valve faces in salinity 2 and 7, respectively. We observed differential expression of transposable elements (TEs) and transporters, likely due to osmotic response. Up‐regulation of mechanosensitive ion channels and down‐regulation of Ca2+‐ATPases in cells with flat valves suggested that cytosolic Ca2+ levels were changed between the morphologies. Calcium signaling could be a mechanism for detecting osmotic pressure changes and triggering morphological shifts. We also observed an up‐regulation of ARPC1 and annexin, involved in the regulation of actin filament dynamics known to affect frustule morphology, as well as the up‐regulation of genes encoding frustule‐related proteins such as BacSETs and frustulin. Taken together, we propose a model in which salinity‐induced morphogenetic changes are driven by upstream responses, such as the regulation of cytosolic Ca2+ levels, and downstream responses, such as Ca2+‐dependent regulation of actin dynamics and frustule‐related proteins. This study highlights the sensitivity of euryhaline diatoms to environmental salinity and the role of active cellular processes in controlling gross valve morphology under different osmotic pressures.
The rough Hawkes Heston stochastic volatility model
Authors: Bondi Alessandro , Pulido Sergio , Scotti Simone
Published: March 2024

We study an extension of the Heston stochastic volatility model that incorporates rough volatility and jump clustering phenomena. In our model, named the rough Hawkes Heston stochastic volatility model, the spot variance is a rough Hawkes‐type process proportional to the intensity process of the jump component appearing in the dynamics of the spot variance itself and the log returns. The model belongs to the class of affine Volterra models. In particular, the Fourier‐Laplace transform of the log returns and the square of the volatility index can be computed explicitly in terms of solutions of deterministic Riccati‐Volterra equations, which can be efficiently approximated using a multi‐factor approximation technique. We calibrate a parsimonious specification of our model characterized by a power kernel and an exponential law for the jumps. We show that our parsimonious setup is able to simultaneously capture, with a high precision, the behavior of the implied volatility smile for both S&P 500 and VIX options. In particular, we observe that in our setting the usual shift in the implied volatility of VIX options is explained by a very low value of the power in the kernel. Our findings demonstrate the relevance, under an affine framework, of rough volatility and self‐exciting jumps in order to capture the joint evolution of the S&P 500 and VIX.
Long‐term Outcome of Isobar TTL System for the Treatment of Lumbar Degenerative Disc Diseases
Authors: Li Junhu , Li Qiujiang , Deng Zhipeng , Wang Linnan , Wang Lei , Song Yueming
Published: March 2024

Objective

The Isobar TTL dynamic fixation system has demonstrated favorable outcomes in the short‐term treatment of lumbar degenerative disc diseases (LDDs). However, there is a paucity of extensive research on the long‐term effects of this system on LDDs. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with LDDs who underwent treatment utilizing the Isobar TTL dynamic fixation system.

Methods

The study analyzed the outcomes of 40 patients with LDDs who underwent posterior lumbar decompression and received single‐segment Isobar TTL dynamic internal fixation at our hospital between June 2010 and December 2016. The evaluation of clinical therapeutic effect involved assessing postoperative pain levels using the visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI), both before surgery, 3 months after, and the final follow‐up. To determine the preservation of functional motion in dynamically stable segments, we measured the range of motion (ROM) and disc height of stabilized and adjacent segments preoperatively and during the final follow‐up. Additionally, we investigated the occurrence of adjacent segment degeneration (ASD).

Results

Forty patients were evaluated, with an average age of 44.65 years and an average follow‐up period of 79.37 months. Fourteen patients belonged to the spondylolisthesis group, while the remaining 26 were categorized under the stenosis or herniated disc group. The preoperative ROM of the stabilized segment exhibited a significant reduction from 8.15° ± 2.77° to 5.00° ± 1.82° at the final follow‐up (p < 0.001). In contrast, there was a slight elevation in the ROM of the adjacent segment during the final follow‐up, increasing from 7.68° ± 2.25° before surgery to 9.36° ± 1.98° (p < 0.001). The intervertebral space height (IH) in the stabilized segment exhibited a significant increase from 10.56 ± 1.99 mm before surgery to 11.39 ± 1.90 mm at the one‐week postoperative follow‐up (p < 0.001). Conversely, there was a notable decrease in the IH of the adjacent segment from 11.09 ± 1.82 mm preoperatively to 10.86 ± 1.79 mm at the one‐week follow‐up after surgery (p < 0.001). The incidence of ASD was 15% (6/40) after an average follow‐up period of 79.37 months, with a rate of 15.38% (4/26) in the stenosis or herniated disc group and 14.29% (2/14) in the spondylolisthesis group; however, no statistically significant difference was observed in the occurrence of ASD among these groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The Isobar TTL dynamic fixation system is an effective treatment for LDDs, improving pain relief, quality of life (QoL) and maintaining stabilized segmental motion. It has demonstrated excellent long‐term clinical and radiographic results.
Leaf day respiration involves multiple carbon sources and depends on previous dark metabolism
Authors: Abadie Cyril , Lalande Julie , Dourmap Corentin , Limami Anis M. , Tcherkez Guillaume
Published: March 2024

Day respiration (Rd) is the metabolic, nonphotorespiratory process by which illuminated leaves liberate CO2 during photosynthesis. Rd is used routinely in photosynthetic models and is thus critical for calculations. However, metabolic details associated with Rd are poorly known, and this can be problematic to predict how Rd changes with environmental conditions and relates to night respiration. It is often assumed that day respiratory CO2 release just reflects ‘ordinary’ catabolism (glycolysis and Krebs ‘cycle’). Here, we carried out a pulse‐chase experiment, whereby a 13CO2 pulse in the light was followed by a chase period in darkness and then in the light. We took advantage of nontargeted, isotope‐assisted metabolomics to determine non‐‘ordinary’ metabolism, detect carbon remobilisation and compare light and dark 13C utilisation. We found that several concurrent metabolic pathways (‘ordinary’ catabolism, oxidative pentose phosphates pathway, amino acid production, nucleotide biosynthesis and secondary metabolism) took place in the light and participated in net CO2 efflux associated with day respiration. Flux reconstruction from metabolomics leads to an underestimation of Rd, further suggesting the contribution of a variety of CO2‐evolving processes. Also, the cornerstone of the Krebs ‘cycle’, citrate, is synthetised de novo from photosynthates mostly in darkness, and remobilised or synthesised from stored material in the light. Collectively, our data provides direct evidence that leaf day respiration (i) involves several CO2‐producing reactions and (ii) is fed by different carbon sources, including stored carbon disconnected from current photosynthates.
The metabolism of melanin synthesis—From melanocytes to melanoma
Authors: Snyman Marelize , Walsdorf Rachel Elizabeth , Wix Sophia Nicole , Gill Jennifer Gibson
Published: March 2024

Melanin synthesis involves the successful coordination of metabolic pathways across multiple intracellular compartments including the melanosome, mitochondria, ER/Golgi, and cytoplasm. While pigment production offers a communal protection from UV damage, the process also requires anabolic and redox demands that must be carefully managed by melanocytes. In this report we provide an updated review on melanin metabolism, including recent data leveraging new techniques, and technologies in the field of metabolism. We also discuss the many aspects of melanin synthesis that intersect with metabolic pathways known to impact melanoma phenotypes and behavior. By reviewing the metabolism of melanin synthesis, we hope to highlight outstanding questions and opportunities for future research that could improve patient outcomes in pigmentary and oncologic disease settings.
Oral sirolimus for the treatment of juvenile xanthogranuloma: Report of two pediatric cases
Authors: Toker Michelle , Hassonjee Fatema Esaa , Amodio John , Edelman Morris C. , Emeghebo Kristina I. , Levy Carolyn Fein , Shaigany Sheila
Published: March 2024

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) with extensive cutaneous or visceral organ involvement is often associated with high morbidity and treatment commonly involves surgical excision, radiotherapy, systemic steroids, or chemotherapy. Sirolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, is an oral antitumor and immunosuppressive therapy used to treat various neoplastic disorders, including histiocytic disorders. We report two pediatric cases of JXG successfully treated with oral sirolimus monotherapy, and postulate that sirolimus may induce rapid disease resolution and long‐term remission for patients with both skin‐limited and multisystemic JXG. Our findings warrant further investigation of the relationship between the mTOR pathway and JXG.
The TSANZ and Lung Foundation Australia 2023 landscape survey of lung cancer care across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Nash Jessica , Leong Tracy , Dawkins Paul , Stone Emily , Marshall Henry , Brims Fraser ,   the LUCAP investigator team
Published: March 2024

Background and Objective

Unwarranted variations in lung cancer care have been well described in both Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand, with shortfalls in hospital‐based workforce and infrastructure previously demonstrated. A survey of lung cancer clinicians was performed to gain an updated understanding of current workforce and infrastructure.

Methods

An online Qualtrics survey included questions on institutional demographics, estimated lung cancer case load, multidisciplinary team (MDT) characteristics including workforce and local infrastructure. We sought to obtain one response from every institution treating lung cancer in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.

Results

Responses were received from 89 institutions, estimated to include 85% centres treating lung cancer in Australia and 100% of public hospitals in Aotearoa New Zealand. Lung cancer nurse specialist and Nuclear Medicine are poorly represented in multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) with just 34/88 (38%) institutions fulfilling recommended core workforce for MDT meetings. Case presentation is low with 32/88 (36%) regularly discussing all lung cancer patients at MDT. Metropolitan institutions appear to have a more comprehensive range of services on site, compared to non‐metropolitan institutions. Few (4/88) institutions have embedded smoking cessation services. Compared to the previous 2021 Landscape Survey, thoracic surgery representation and core MDT workforce have improved, with modest change in specialist nurse numbers.

Conclusion

This wide‐reaching survey has identified persistent deficiencies and variations in lung cancer workforce and gaps in infrastructure. Multidisciplinary collaboration and care coordination are needed to ensure all patients can access timely and equitable lung cancer care.

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An Improvised Cost‐Effective Repair Technique for Management of Broken Luer Connections of Tunneled Dialysis Catheter and Salvage Existing Catheter
Authors: Behera Vineet , Gireesh Reddy Giddaluru , Shreedhara C. G. , Kishan A. , Kalra Kapil , Ananthakrishnan R. , Subramaniam J. , Balasubramaniam J.
Published: March 2024

Mechanical problems like break or crack in Luer connectors or hubs, clamps, and tubings are common non‐infectious complications of tunneled dialysis catheters (TDC), which may lead to other TDC complications and the need to insert a new catheter. These can be tackled using TDC repair kits or spare parts, which are often not available, resulting in the insertion of a new TDC that increases morbidity, TDC‐related procedures, and healthcare costs. We discuss two cases of broken Luer connections of TDC, which were managed by exchanging the broken Luer connector of TDC with the similar Luer connector of a temporary dialysis catheter. Both the repaired TDCs are thereafter functioning well. This improvised technique provides an easy, effective, long‐lasting option that salvages the existing TDC and reduces the cost factor.
Determining who military service members deem credible to discuss firearm safety for suicide prevention
Authors: Bond Allison E. , Moceri‐Brooks Jayna , Bandel Shelby L. , Crifasi Cassandra , Bryan Craig J. , Capron Daniel W. , Bryan Annabelle O. , Anestis Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To examine rankings of credible sources for discussing secure storage within a representative sample of firearm‐owning service members, and examine how combinations of demographic variables impact the ranking of credible sources.

Methods

The probability‐based sample was collected with the help of Ipsos. Participants were US service members who owned a firearm at the time of the survey (n = 719).

Results

The total sample ranked service members, Veterans, and members of law enforcement as the most credible sources and faith leaders, casual acquittances, and celebrities as the least credible sources. Black men ranked the NRA as a highly credible source whereas Black females ranked the NRA as one of the least preferred sources. Regardless of political preference, those who lived in non‐metropolitan rural environments ranked members of law enforcement as highly credible sources. Those who lived in non‐metropolitan rural and urban settings and identified as liberal ranked the National Shooting Sports Foundation as a highly credible source.

Conclusions

Law enforcement officers, military members, and Veterans are ranked as highly credible sources by most subgroups of firearm‐owning service members. Leveraging these voices in firearm safety conversations is necessary, may increase adherence to secure storage recommendations, and ultimately reduce suicide.
Reorienting the Orient: Expanding upon Anti‐Asian Racism Scholarship through the Lens of Colorism Theory
Authors: Engel Rachel
Published: March 2024

This article challenges scholars to broaden their definition of anti‐Asian racism and whiteness through the lens of colorism theory. Existing literature on Asian Americans finds that the racial category is unique in its high percentage of foreign‐born individuals, yet little attention has been paid to how systems of discrimination and social stratification relevant in the Asian regional context have translated to or are relevant in the U.S. context. Through a systematic review of Asian American racialization literature, this article interrogates how the literature has continued to operate within a Black‐White binary and why the challenge to break out of said binary remains a timely one. Ultimately, this article encourages scholars to consider Global South perspectives on colorism and racism, thereby challenging scholars to orient away from Whiteness as it is understood in the limited U.S. racial context, and instead contend with the status of whiteness as it is understood in the Asian regional context. Such a theoretical reorientation promises to advance scholarly knowledge of intricate Asian American intra‐group dynamics and contribute to the growing literature on transnational anti‐Asian racism.
Disordered spatial pattern of redness signal on facial skin and visual perception of health, stress, and hidden aging
Authors: Omotezako Tatsuya , Neo Eleanor , Zhu Hong , Ehrman Matthew
Published: March 2024

Background

Well‐being is commonly communicated across industries; however, experimental understanding how human perceive skin health and skin stresses are not sufficient.

Materials and Methods

Image analysis algorithm, a* gradient, was developed to evaluate spatial pattern and shape of red signal on skin. Human perception for skin health and stresses were compared with technical measurements in two visual perception studies.

Results

a* gradient correlated with perceived Inflamed Skin (R = 0.73, p < 0.01), Stressed Skin (R = 0.79, p < 0.01), Sensitive Skin (R = 0.75, p < 0.01), Healthy Skin (R = ‐0.83, p < 0.01), and Start Aging (R = 0.75, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Disordered spatial pattern of redness signal drives human perception of skin health, stress, and aging. This new skin index of redness signal shows higher correlation with those human perception than basal a* mean, unevenness of a*, and other conventional skin color attributes.
Effect of biochar addition on water–salt distribution and growth of winter wheat in coastal saline‐alkali soils under brackish water irrigation
Authors: Wu Wei , Chai Hongxing , Gao Peiling , Gao Penghao , Zhang Xue , Li Mengzhao , Guo Xianglin , Lv Qingxin
Published: March 2024

To investigate water‐saving and yield‐enhancing improvement programmes suitable for saline‐alkali soils in the Yellow River Delta region, this study conducted outdoor pot experiments utilizing local moderately saline‐alkali soils as research subjects. The primary focus was to examine the impact of biochar addition on water and salt distribution in saline‐alkali soils and its effect on winter wheat growth under brackish water irrigation conditions. The study design established three different irrigation water mineral concentrations (0, 2 and 4 g L−1) during the research. Two types of biochar, wheat straw biochar (WB) and corn straw biochar (CB), were used with four different applications (0, 5, 10 and 20 t ha−1). There were 21 treatments; each replicated three times. These findings demonstrated that brackish water irrigation and biochar application contributed to a notable increase in soil water content (SWC), with increases ranging from 12.8 to 83.9% across treatments. Using brackish water for irrigation increases soil salt content (SSC) and exacerbates soil salinization. However, the application of biochar counteracts this effect by reducing soil salinity and mitigating the degree of salinization. Treatments applying biochar mostly increased SSC, but proper application had a salinity‐reducing effect, reducing SSC by up to 15.2%. And biochar reduced the soil sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), mitigating the adverse effects of high salinity on winter wheat. Finally, the application of biochar promoted the growth of winter wheat and increased yield, with the treatment applying 10 t ha−1 of CB (K2Y10) producing the greatest yield under brackish water irrigation conditions and increased by 18% compared with the treatment without biochar (CK0). In summary, considering the aspects of water conservation, salt reduction and yield increase, the most effective saline land improvement programme for this region involved using 2 g L−1 brackish water for irrigation in combination with applying K2Y10. This approach balances addressing soil salinity, enhancing water conservation and maximizing crop yields.