bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation genomics assessment of Tharp's bluestar (Amsonia tharpii) with comparisons to widespread (A. longilora) and narrowly endemic (A. fugatei) congeners
Authors: Cohen Dylan H. , Fant Jeremie B. , Skogen Krissa A.
Published: June 2024

Land‐use change and habitat fragmentation are threats to biodiversity. The decrease in available habitat, increase in isolation, and mating within populations can lead to elevated inbreeding, lower genetic diversity, and poor fitness. Here we investigate the genetics of two rare and threatened plant species, Amsonia tharpii and A. fugatei, and we compare them to a widespread congener A. longiflora. We also report the first phylogenetic study of the genus Amsonia (Apocynaceae), including 10 of the 17 taxa and multiple sampling locations, to understand species relationships. We used a double digest restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) approach to investigate the genetic diversity and gene flow of each species and to create a maximum likelihood phylogeny. The ddRADseq data was mapped to a reference genome to separate out the chloroplast and nuclear markers for population genetic analysis. Our results show that genetic diversity and inbreeding were low across all three species. The chloroplast and nuclear dataset in A. tharpii were highly structured, whereas they showed no structure for A. fugatei, while A. longiflora lacked structure for nuclear data but not chloroplast. Phylogenetic results revealed that A. tharpii is distinct and sister to A. fugatei, and together they are distantly related to A. longiflora. Our results demonstrated that evolutionary history and contemporary ecological processes largely influences genetic diversity within Amsonia. Interestingly, we show that in A. tharpii there was significant structure despite being pollinated by large, bodied hawkmoths that are known to be able to carry pollen long distances, suggesting that other factors are contributing to the structure observed among A. tharpii populations. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting all of the A. tharpii populations, as they contain unique genetic diversity, and a protection plan for A. fugatei needs to be established due to its limited distribution.
A unique morpho‐feature extraction algorithm for medicinal plant identification
Authors: Dubey Ashwani Kumar , Thanikkal Jibi G. , Sharma Puneet , Shukla Manoj Kumar
Published: June 2024

An image is a set of numbers arranged in matrix form. The image feature extraction algorithm converts the input image into different numerical forms to extract the useful information from the input image and the selection of appropriate feature extraction algorithm is crucial for medicinal plant identification. In medicinal plants, the leaves are an available important resource of morphological features. Botanists use these morphological features of leaf images for medicinal plant identification. The existing leaf‐based medicinal plant identification strategies include shape, colour and texture features. In these methods, environmental factors directly influence the features and hence, the impact can be observed in the accuracy of the result. To overcome these limitations, we have proposed a unique morpho‐feature extraction algorithm (UMFEA) for accurate identification of medicinal plants. The UMFEA includes three sub‐algorithms for shape, apex, base, and vein features extraction. The proposed UMFEA is tested over Flavia, Swedish, Leaf and our databases. The performance comparison of UMFEA is done on different databases and the results obtained were remarkably good.
Staff perspectives on transformational needs at a South African higher education institution
Authors: Magida Nontembiso , Yazbek Mariatha , Thambura Julius
Published: June 2024

Transformation reflects the government's engagement and policies in restructuring higher education to cultivate the country's communal economy. Higher education is challenged in providing tertiary education to students from diverse environments, and staff transformation is needed. This cross‐sectional study establishes the staff's perception of transformation in the School of Healthcare Sciences of a selected South African university. Staff were purposively sampled and were surveyed using an electronic questionnaire. The survey included aspects of equity, transformation, management, recognition, the social environment, the physical environment and general satisfaction. Demographic variables, including the perspective on transformation in the institution, the student body and transformation management, were descriptively analysed. Most staff members perceived the university as committed to transformation despite racial tensions and past injustices. Over two‐thirds of the staff support the university's goal of increasing a diverse student body. Additionally, the management is comfortable with diversity and demonstrates equity for all. The implementation of transformation was actively considered and aligned with policies.
THE OPENING OF HISTORICAL FUTURES*
Authors: Simon Zoltán Boldizsár , Tamm Marek
Published: June 2024

With a touch of irony, the project‐closing piece of the “Historical Futures” collective research endeavor pulls together the threads of its four years of explorative work by showcasing an opening of historical futures. Against the persisting myth of the closure of the future in contemporary societies, it claims that, as long as the future remains contested by virtue of the multiplicity of historical futures that societal practices and discourses entail or advocate, there can be no closure of the future. In support of this claim, the project‐closing piece outlines the reasons why the future is more radically open than ever and surveys the findings of the project contributions with the frame provided by the contemporary opening of historical futures.
Modelling thermal characteristics of cocoa butter using a feed‐forward artificial neural network based on multilayer perceptron
Authors: Rostami Omid , Saberi Farzad , Mohammadi Amirreza , Kamalirousta Leila , Rosell Cristina M. , Gasparre Nicola
Published: June 2024

Cocoa butter is the most important ingredient of chocolate, which determines its melting behaviour. Variations in the melting characteristics of cocoa butter can profoundly affect the performance and suitability for their industrial utilisation. Over time, researchers have been attempting to establish a logical relationship between cocoa butter's unique thermal properties and the amount of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids in mono, di and triglycerides, and fatty acids (as major components), and free fatty acids, soap, primary oxidation products, minerals, moisture, phospholipids, tocopherols, unsaponifiable matters and metals (as minor components) found in cocoa butter. In this research, the thermal behaviours of thirteen samples of cocoa butter with different origins were investigated using isothermal differential scanning calorimetry. The cocoa butters starting temperature of crystallisation, temperature of maximum heat release, temperature of completed crystallisation and the enthalpy of heat release during recrystallisation were evaluated. In addition, the chemical composition (moisture, acidity, peroxide, minerals and soap content), fatty acid and triacylglycerol composition were used to establish an MLP‐ANN with fourteen input neurons connected by two flexible, sigmoid activation function layers. The back‐propagation was used to train the artificial neural network (ANN) structure and optimise the error of prediction. The study showed that the MLP algorithm can predict the thermal behaviour of CB samples with trace error, regardless of plant growth and extract process condition.
High‐resolution HLA sequencing and hypocretin receptor 2 autoantibodies in narcolepsy type 1 and type 2
Authors: Hamdan Samia , Wasling Pontus , Lind Alexander
Published: June 2024

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder caused by an apparent degeneration of orexin/hypocretin neurons in the lateral hypothalamic area and a subsequent decrease in orexin/hypocretin levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. Narcolepsy is classified into type 1 (NT1) and type 2 (NT2). While genetic associations in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) region and candidate autoantibodies have been investigated in NT1 to imply an autoimmune origin, less is known about the pathogenesis in NT2. Twenty‐six NT1 and 15 NT2 patients were included, together with control groups of 24 idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) patients and 778 general population participants. High‐resolution sequencing was used to determine the alleles, the extended haplotypes, and the genotypes of HLA‐DRB3, ‐DRB4, ‐DRB5, ‐DRB1, ‐DQA1, ‐DQB1, ‐DPA1, and ‐DPB1. Radiobinding assay was used to determine autoantibodies against hypocretin receptor 2 (anti‐HCRTR2 autoantibodies). NT1 was associated with HLA‐DRB5*01:01:01, ‐DRB1*15:01:01, ‐DQA1*01:02:01, ‐DQB1*06:02:01, ‐DRB5*01:01:01, ‐DRB1*15:01:01, ‐DQA1*01:02:01, ‐DQB1*06:02:01 (odds ratio [OR]: 9.15; p = 8.31 × 10−4) and HLA‐DRB5*01:01:01, ‐DRB1*15:01:01, ‐DQA1*01:02:01, ‐DQB1*06:02:01, ‐DRB4*01:03:01, ‐DRB1*04:01:01, ‐DQA1*03:02//03:03:01, ‐DQB1*03:01:01 (OR: 23.61; p = 1.58 × 10−4) genotypes. Lower orexin/hypocretin levels were reported in the NT2 subgroup (n = 5) that was associated with the extended HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01 haplotype (p = .001). Anti‐HCRTR2 autoantibody levels were not different between study groups (p = .8524). We confirmed the previous association of NT1 with HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01 extended genotypes. A subgroup of NT2 patients with intermediate orexin/hypocretin levels and association with HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01 was identified, indicating a possible overlap between the two distinct narcolepsy subtypes, NT1 and NT2. Low anti‐HCRTR2 autoantibody levels suggest that these receptors might not function as autoimmune targets in either NT1 or NT2.
The role of split‐thickness skin grafting in the treatment of vasculitic and pyoderma gangrenosum ulcers in a multidisciplinary wound centre
Authors: Suoniemi Laura , Salmi Teea , Huhtala Heini , Kaartinen Ilkka , Kiiski Juha , Kimpimäki Teija
Published: June 2024

Vasculitic and pyoderma gangrenosum ulcers are traditionally treated with immunosuppressants, and the role of surgery in the treatment of these atypical ulcers remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the need for surgical intervention as well as the outcome and safety of skin grafting in the treatment of 46 patients with vasculitic ulcers and 34 with pyoderma gangrenosum ulcers using data recorded in the validated Wound Registry. Of the 80 patients with atypical ulcers, 14% (n = 11) were treated surgically; these patients were older (p = 0.039), had lower mobility status (p = 0.002), and more often pulmonary diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and previous arterial procedures (p = 0.007; p = 0.031; p = 0.031, respectively) than those treated conservatively. Of 181 ulcers, 15% (n = 27) were surgically treated, 78% once and 22% multiple times. During follow‐up, 92.3% of both surgically and conservatively treated ulcers with available data healed. Of the surgically treated ulcers, median healing time after first surgical procedure was 96 days, and post‐surgical complications were considered mild or unrelated to surgery. Our results suggest that if surgery is indicated, skin grafting is a safe and efficient treatment method provided that multidisciplinary approach is applied.
Real‐world evidence demonstrates an appropriate atrial fibrillation population for hybrid convergent approach versus stand‐alone cryoballoon ablation: A long‐term safety and efficacy study
Authors: Lorenzo Christian , Ortiz‐Gonzalez Yahaira , Hill Dustin , Kinaga Jennifer , Filart Lauren , Bello David , Duran Aurelio , Bott Jeffery , Patel Shivangi , Sendin Mary Janette , Filart Roland
Published: June 2024

Introduction

A hybrid convergent approach (endocardial and epicardial ablation) demonstrated superior effectiveness in a recent randomized study for long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF). Yet, there is a lack of real‐world, long‐term evidence as to which patients are best candidates for a hybrid convergent approach compared to standard endocardial cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB PVI).

Methods and Results

This single‐center, retrospective analysis spanning from 2010 to 2015 compared two distinctly different atrial fibrillation (AF) cohorts; one treated with stand‐alone cryoablation and one treated with a hybrid convergent approach. Baseline characteristics described candidates for each approach. The following criteria were utilized to determine CB PVI candidacy: (1) paroxysmal AF (PAF) (stage 3A) with failed class I/III antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) or (2) persistent/LSPAF (stage 3B/3C/3D) with failed class I/III AAD unwilling to undergo hybrid procedure. Selection criteria for the hybrid procedure included: (1) PAF refractory to both class I/III AAD and prior CB PVI (stage 3D) or (2) persistent/LSPAF (stage 3B/3C/3D) with failed class I/III AAD agreeable to hybrid procedure. Prior sternotomy was excluded. Serial electrocardiograms and continuous monitoring evaluated primary efficacy outcome of time‐to‐first recurrence of atrial arrhythmia after a 90‐day blanking period. Secondary outcomes were procedure‐related complications and AAD use (at discharge, 12, and 36 months). Kaplan‐Meier methods evaluated arrhythmia recurrence. Of 276 patients, 197 (64.2 ± 10.6 years old; 66.5% male; 74.1% 3A‐PAF; 18.3% 3B/3D‐persistent AF; 1.0% 3C‐LSPAF; 6.6% undetermined) underwent CB PVI and 79 (61.4 ± 8.1 years old; 83.5% male; 41.8% 3D‐PAF; 45.5% 3B/3D‐persistent AF; 12.7% 3C/3D‐LSPAF) underwent hybrid procedure. Arrhythmia freedom through 36 months was 55.2% for CB PVI and 50.4% for hybrid (p = .32). Class I AAD utilization at discharge occurred in 38 (19.3%) patients in the CB PVI group and 5 (6.3%) patients in the hybrid group (p = .01). CB PVI class I AAD utilization at 12 months occurred in 14 (9.0) patients versus 0 patients for hybrid convergent (p = .004). Patients with one or more adverse event were as follows: two (1.0%) in the CB PVI group (both transient phrenic nerve palsy) and three (3.7%) in the hybrid group (two with significant bleeding and one with wound infection) (p = .14).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that patients with more complex forms of AF (3D‐PAF or 3B/3C/3D‐persistent/LSPAF) could be well managed with a convergent approach. In a real‐world evaluation, outcomes match safety and efficacy thresholds achieved for patients with earlier, less complex AF etiologies treated by CB PVI alone.
Efficacy and safety of same‐day preparation with sodium picosulfate plus magnesium citrate on the day of colonoscopy for bowel preparation: Multicenter, single‐arm, open‐label study
Authors: Hori Hitomi , Ikezawa Nobuaki , Tanaka Shinwa , Ueda Chise , Fujisawa Mizuho , Hoki Shinya , Tanabe Hiroshi , Ishida Ryosuke , Okamoto Norihiro , Takayama Hiroshi , Miyazaki Haruka , Sakaguchi Hiroya , Kinoshita Masato , Abe Hirofumi , Yoshizaki Tetsuya , Ooi Makoto , Takao Madoka , Morita Yoshinori , Toyonaga Takashi , Kodama Yuzo
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

Sodium picosulfate plus magnesium citrate (SP + MC) is a well‐tolerated bowel preparation agent. However, Japan currently approves only two methods of taking SP + MC: the day‐before and split‐dose preparation, without approval of same‐day preparations. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of same‐day SP + MC preparations.

Methods

This was a multicenter, single‐arm, nonrandomized, open‐label study. We enrolled 145 Japanese patients between June and December 2023. The patients received two sachets of SP + MC dissolved in 300 ml of water and 1200 mL or more of clear liquid on the day of colonoscopy. Bowel cleansing efficacy, adverse events (AEs), and patient satisfaction were evaluated.

Results

Of the enrolled patients, 137 underwent colonoscopy according to our protocol. Bowel preparation was adequate in 133 patients (97.1%). The mean total Boston Bowel Preparation Score was 8.3 ± 1.2. Five patients experienced AEs (3.6%): two (1.5%), abdominal pain; one (0.73%), ischemic enteritis; one (0.73%), vomiting or nausea; and one (0.73%), headache. All AEs were treated conservatively. None of the patients exhibited abnormal blood test results or clinical symptoms after receiving SP + MC. Regarding patient satisfaction, all patients were able to take SP + MC as directed; 136 (99.2%) expressed a preference for this bowel preparation for future colonoscopies.

Conclusion

The same‐day SP + MC preparation showed high bowel‐cleansing efficacy and satisfaction in Japanese patients without serious AEs.
Epifluorescence microscopy study of a quadruple node of triple junctions of grain boundaries in a Eu2+‐decorated highly textured composite of (Cl, Br)(K, Rb) and I(K, Rb) solid solutions
Authors: Cordero‐Borboa A. E. , Unda‐Angeles R.
Published: June 2024

The structural nature and geometry, as well as the lattice‐relative orientation, of an arrangement of crystal defects in a highly textured Eu2+‐doped composite of two alkali‐halide solid solutions was studied by epifluorescence microscopy (EFM) using the doping ion as a fluorochrome. A three‐dimensional reconstruction and a skeleton type model, as built from a sequence of EFM images of different optical cross‐sections of this arrangement, are presented. Structurally, this arrangement is a quadruple node (QN) of triple junctions of grain boundaries. The QN core geometry is that of a tetragonal tristetrahedron (TTTH), centred at the QN site, whose tetrahedron vertices and edges are on the QN triple junctions and grain boundaries, respectively, whereas the tristetrahedron tetragonal axis is nearly parallel to the lattice [001]‐axis. The measured values of the angles between triple junctions and between the grain boundaries forming them are reported. The distinct chemical compositions of the composite solid solutions are discussed to be responsible, in last instance, for the tristetrahedron departure from a cubic configuration. Collaterally, certain families of translationally periodic almost‐parallel (TPAP)‐wall‐like regions which consist of TPAP‐columns of TPAP‐spindle‐like singularities, as well as certain zigzag arrays of columns of this like, existing into the QN grains, are reported to be observed. Three‐dimensional reconstructions of typical individuals of these families and arrays as well as of their constituent parts are presented and geometrically analysed. These families and arrays are discussed to be families of tilt subboundaries, whose constituent dislocations are decorated by cylindrical second‐phase europium di‐halide precipitates, and regularly faceted tilt subboundaries, respectively. Crystal growing and sample preparation, composite structural characterisation by powder and single‐slab X‐ray diffraction (PXRD and SSXRD, respectively), microscopy and fluorescence‐cube unit optics, image processing, electronic three‐dimensional reconstruction and measuring methodologies, are all described in detail.
Investigating the impact of botulinum toxin type a on the migration of normal human dermal fibroblasts: An in vitro wound healing assay
Authors: Thanasarnaksorn Wilai , Pomsoong Cherrin , Kanjanasirirat Phongthon , Jearawuttanakul Kedchin , Borwornpinyo Suparerk , Hongeng Suradej , Ratanapokasatit Yanisa , Rattananukrom Teerapong
Published: June 2024

Background

Botulinum toxin A (BoNT‐A) is widely utilized in the management of hypertrophic and keloid scars. One proposed mechanism for scar prevention involves the inhibition of fibroblast migration in scars by BoNT‐A. However, the data regarding the effect of BoNT‐A on the migration of normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) is limited.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of different types and dilutions of BoNT‐A on the migration of NHDF.

Methods

In vitro scratch wound assay, NHDF cells were cultured, incubated, and subjected to scratching using a sterile tip. Subsequently, the scratched NHDF monolayer was treated with different types of BoNT‐A, including onabotulinumtoxinA (ONA), incobotulinumtoxinA (INCO), prabotulinumtoxinA (PRABO), or letibotulinumtoxinA (LETI), at varying concentrations of 10, 20, 25, 40, 50, and 100 units/milliliter (U/mL). Additionally, abobotulinumtoxinA (ABO) was administered at concentrations of 33, 50, 66, 71, 100, 150, 300, and 500 U/mL. Normal saline solution (NSS) served as a negative control. The extent of NHDF migration was evaluated by comparing each dilution of BoNT‐A with the controls using high‐content imaging at the 48‐h time point. Furthermore, the viability of the of NHDF was assessed.

Results

The concentrations of 25, 40, and 50 U/mL of ONA (p < 0.001) and 25 U/mL of LETI (p < 0.05) demonstrated significantly inhibited NHDF migration in comparison to the control group. Conversely, all dilutions of PRABO, INCO, and ABO exhibited comparable NHDF migration to that of the control group. Regarding NHDF viability, no significant decrease was observed across any of the BoNT‐A types and dilutions.

Conclusion

Different types and dilutions of BoNT‐A demonstrated variable inhibitory effects on NHDF migration in vitro. The selection of BoNT‐A formulation may significantly impact the clinical outcome of scar prevention related to fibroblast migration.
Implementing purpose‐studies: A humanising approach for bridging the spaces between writers, their worlds and the test
Authors: Land Charlotte L. , Elliot Alison Eike , McKinnon Barbara
Published: June 2024

Teachers of young writers often feel pressure to focus on narrow, tested conventions, forms and processes of writing. These pressures can contribute to instruction that does not consider students' interests, experiences, language or cultures, but rather can further deficit views of students whose backgrounds do not closely align with those making decisions about what counts as writing in schools. This paper explores purpose‐studies—an alternative to genre‐studies—Barbara, a fourth‐grade teacher, and Alison, a ninth‐grade teacher, used to help balance the needs of their students, position students as strong and capable writers and prepare students to write for the test and the world beyond the school walls.
The impact of space, host dissimilitude, and environment on prokaryotic communities of golf ball sponges
Authors: Cleary Daniel F. R. , de Voogd Nicole J.
Published: June 2024

Golf ball sponges are small, sometimes inconspicuous, sponges. They can be found across a range of habitats varying from perturbed and pristine coral reefs to harbours and marine lakes and from the deep sea to shallow waters. They can be difficult to distinguish in the field and have presented some problems with taxonomists lumping and splitting species due to the difficulty in defining clear species boundaries. In the present study, we sampled golf ball sponges from Indo‐Pacific and Caribbean locations and used 16S gene amplicon sequencing to study their prokaryotic communities. We show that golf ball sponges harbour a wide variety of prokaryotic communities. Among the most prevalent operational taxonomic units (OTUs), several belonged to a range of taxa, including the bacterial AqS1 and EC94 groups, which have been associated with genes known to facilitate interactions between hosts and microbes. Certain host taxa were enriched with OTUs classified to the SAR202 clade of Chloroflexi. Our findings show that prokaryotic dissimilarity varied as a function of space (geographical distance) and host dissimilitude. The importance of space and host dissimilitude, however, varied depending on the data transformation with host dissimilitude a more important predictor of untransformed data whereas space was a more important predictor of log‐transformed data. Given that log‐transformation downscales the influence of abundant taxa, we interpret these results by the tendency of closely related host organisms to host similar sets of abundant symbiotic microorganisms; distantly sampled specimens, in contrast, tend to harbour less abundant prokaryotic microorganisms found in the surrounding environment (e.g., seawater or sediment).
On the philosophical proofs of absolute death by schizophrenia
Authors: Li Kuo
Published: June 2024

This paper begins by elucidating two common features in the application from spirit to the material world of objective idealism: first, all main representatives take the Absolute as the way to think about the inner negative foundation of spirit and, second, the Absolute has a self‐negation processual structure, which exits itself and then returns to itself. The paper points out that the exit‐return model can explain the objective world very well and meanwhile maintain the integrity of the spiritual ontology, in which the return to the Absolute is crucial. After the scientific revolution, the Enlightenment, and two world wars, however, followed by the development of irrational thinking, positivism, and practical philosophy, the Absolute ceased to be the foundation of spiritual functioning. The return to the Absolute points to emptiness, and exit without return creates persistent schizophrenia, while subverting the ontological foundation of concepts and language, objects and humankind.
„Nichts verlangte er von seiner Umwelt, außer dass er sie provozieren und vor den Kopf stoßen durfte“: Jesus‐Figuren in der modernen deutschsprachigen und polnischen Literatur
Authors: Jakubów Marek
Published: June 2024

Die zahlreichen Romane in der deutschsprachigen und polnischen Literatur, die in den letzten, durch die Säkularisierungsprozesse geprägten Jahrzehnten erschienen sind und die Figur Jesu thematisieren, bilden kein einheitliches Phänomen und ergeben aus komparatistischer Sicht erhebliche Differenzen. Sie sind auf die andersartigen Deutungsmuster der romantischen Tradition zurückzuführen. Wenn sich im deutschsprachigen Raum in der der Konstruktion der Jesus‐Figur die Tendenz zur Überschreitung des durch die Sprache bestimmten Erkenntnisradius manifest macht, gilt sie bei den polnischen Autoren als überlieferter und ständig präsenter Teil des Bewusstseins, der in kritischer Hinterfragung seine Wandlungsetappen nach der Wendezeit markiert.
Integrating GWAS, RNA‐Seq and functional analysis revealed that BnaA02.SE mediates silique elongation by affecting cell proliferation and expansion in Brassica napus
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Yang Bo , Li Xiaodong , Chen Si , Zhang Chao , Xiang Sirou , Sun Tingting , Yang Ziyan , Kong Xizeng , Qu Cunmin , Lu Kun , Li Jiana
Published: June 2024

Rapeseed (Brassica napus) silique is the major carbohydrate source for seed development, and the final silique length has attracted great attention from breeders. However, no studies had focused on the dynamic character of silique elongation length (SEL). Here, the dynamic SEL investigation in a natural population including 588 lines over two years indicate that dynamic SEL during 0–20 days after flowering was the most essential stage associated with seed number per silique (SPS) and thousand seed weight (TSW). Then, nine loci were identified to be associated with SEL based on GWAS analysis, among which five SNPs (over 50%) distributed on the A02 chromosome within 6.08 to 6.48 Mb. Subsequently, we screened 5078 differentially expressed genes between two extreme materials. An unknown protein, BnaA02.SE, was identified combining with GWAS and RNA‐Seq analysis. Subcellular localization and expression profiles analysis demonstrated that BnaA02.SE is a chloroplast‐ and nucleus‐localized protein mainly expressed in pericarps and leaves. Furthermore, transgenic verification and dynamic cytological observation reveal that overexpressed BnaA02.SE can promote silique elongation by regulating JA and IAA contents, affecting cell proliferation and expansion, respectively, and finally enhance seed yield by influencing SPS and TSW. Haplotype analysis reveal that the homologs of BnaA02.SE may also be involved in silique elongation regulation. Our findings provided comprehensive insights into a newly SEL trait, and cloned the first gene (BnaA02.SE) controlling silique elongation in B. napus. The identified BnaA02.SE and its homologs can offer a valuable target for improving B. napus yield.
Children's injuries in legislated types child‐care institutions
Authors: Kataoka Sachiko Yamamoto , Nozawa Sachiko , Mishina Hiroki , Kataoka Yuki , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Nakayama Takeo
Published: June 2024

Background

Severe injuries in child‐care institutions are an important social issue. However, no reports on this matter have been made in Japan. This study examined trends in severe injuries at child‐care institutions, including the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a serial cross‐sectional study and interrupted time‐series (ITS) analysis with a linear regression model to assess trends in the incidence rate of severe injuries using Japanese national open data between January or April 2017 and December 2021. Participants were individuals utilizing legislated types child‐care institutions. The outcomes were annual and monthly incidence rates of severe injuries in legislated types child‐care institutions.

Results

The number of legislated types child‐care institutions increased from 32,793 facilities in 2017 to 38,666 facilities in 2021, and the number of participants rose from 2,802,228 in 2017 to 3,059,734 in 2021. The annual incidence rate of severe injuries in 2021 was 58.3 cases per 100,000 person‐years, which is twofold higher than that in 2017. The ITS for the monthly incidence rate demonstrated an increasing trend before the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Before the COVID‐19 pandemic, the monthly incidence rate of severe injuries in legislated types child‐care institutions increased. The annual incidence rate in Japan may have also increased during the observation period.
Reduced Intratendinous Sliding in Achilles Tendinopathy During Active Plantarflexion Regardless of Horizontal Foot Position
Authors: Lecompte Laura , Crouzier Marion , Bogaerts Stijn , Scheys Lennart , Vanwanseele Benedicte
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The Achilles tendon consists of three subtendons with the ability to slide relative to each other. As optimal intratendinous sliding is thought to reduce the overall stress in the tendon, alterations in sliding behavior could potentially play a role in the development of Achilles tendinopathy. The aims of this study were to investigate the difference in intratendinous sliding within the Achilles tendon during isometric contractions between asymptomatic controls and patients with Achilles tendinopathy and the effect of changing the horizontal foot position on intratendinous sliding in both groups.

Methods

Twenty‐nine participants (13 Achilles tendinopathy and 16 controls) performed isometric plantarflexion contractions at 60% of their maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), in toes‐neutral, and at 30% MVC in toes‐neutral, toes‐in, and toes‐out positions during which ultrasound images were recorded. Intratendinous sliding was estimated as the superficial‐to‐middle and middle‐to‐deep relative displacement.

Results

Patients with Achilles tendinopathy present lower intratendinous sliding than asymptomatic controls. Regarding the horizontal foot position in both groups, the toes‐out foot position resulted in increased sliding compared with both toes‐neutral and toes‐out foot position.

Conclusion

We provided evidence that patients with Achilles tendinopathy show lower intratendinous sliding than asymptomatic controls. Since intratendinous sliding is a physiological feature of the Achilles tendon, the external foot position holds promise to increase sliding in patients with Achilles tendinopathy and promote healthy tendon behavior. Future research should investigate if implementing this external foot position in rehabilitation programs stimulates sliding within the Achilles tendon and improves clinical outcome.
Computing the shape of planet Earth
Authors: Norton Stephen J.
Published: June 2024

It is often noted that the Earth is slightly oblate rather than spherical, but the calculation of the Earth's eccentricity can be challenging. Here, we calculate it by minimizing the sum of the Earth's gravitational potential energy and its centrifugal potential energy. The Earth's gravitational potential energy can be derived with the help of the Green's function of the Laplace operator in oblate spheroidal coordinates. Under the assumption of a homogeneous planet, we obtain an analytic relationship for the Earth's eccentricity that was first derived by Maclaurin in 1742 and is about 13 percent larger than the observed value. Better agreement with observation is obtained by assuming that the Earth's core is about twice the density of the mantle, which reduces the Earth's moment of inertia. This exercise can provide practice in analyzing gravitational systems in spheroidal coordinates; the problem may also be relevant for other gravitating and rotating bodies, such as stars and galaxies.
“There’s a Lifestyle, an Appreciation, a Beauty”: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of Masters Rowers
Authors: Rich Jason , Beach Pamela , Byrne Heidi K.
Published: June 2024

Masters rowing has seen a measurable increase in participation, with masters rowers engaged in the sport for competition, health, and recreation reasons. Unlike other masters sports, masters rowing has a unique high level of synchronous, cooperative, and interdependent elements. To better understand the benefits and challenges of participation in competitive masters rowing, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of competitive masters rowers. Twelve competitive masters rowers were recruited and interviewed. Utilizing an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach to guide data collection, analysis, and interpretation, the analysis revealed four major themes: navigating community relationships, finding a reason to row, growing opportunities, and seeking considerate coaches. Utilizing self-determination theory as a framework for interpreting the findings, the identified themes illustrate the varying motivations, needs, and preferences of competitive masters rowers, as well as how their experiences are influenced by their coaches and peers. Efforts should be made by masters rowing coaches and administrators to better understand the needs of their athletes to ensure the maximum benefits of participation, commitment, and enjoyment of the sport.
Breast cancer exploits neural signaling pathways for bone-to-meninges metastasis
Authors: Whiteley Andrew E. , Ma Danhui , Wang Lihua , Yu Seok-Yeong , Yin Claire , Price Trevor T. , Simon Brennan G. , Xu Katie R. , Marsh Kathleen A. , Brockman Maegan L. , Prioleau Tatiana M. , Zhou Katherine I. , Cui Xiuyu , Fecci Peter E. , Jeck William R. , McCall Chad M. , Neff Jadee L. , Sipkins Dorothy A.
Published: June 2024

The molecular mechanisms that regulate breast cancer cell (BCC) metastasis and proliferation within the leptomeninges (LM) are poorly understood, which limits the development of effective therapies. In this work, we show that BCCs in mice can invade the LM by abluminal migration along blood vessels that connect vertebral or calvarial bone marrow and meninges, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. This process is dependent on BCC engagement with vascular basement membrane laminin through expression of the neuronal pathfinding molecule integrin α6. Once in the LM, BCCs colocalize with perivascular meningeal macrophages and induce their expression of the prosurvival neurotrophin glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Intrathecal GDNF blockade, macrophage-specific GDNF ablation, or deletion of the GDNF receptor neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) from BCCs inhibits breast cancer growth within the LM. These data suggest integrin α6 and the GDNF signaling axis as new therapeutic targets against breast cancer LM metastasis.
Selective directional liquid transport on shoot surfaces of
Crassula muscosa
Authors: Yang Ling , Li Wei , Lian Jiaoyuan , Zhu Hengjia , Deng Qiyu , Zhang Yiyuan , Li Jiaqian , Yin Xiaobo , Wang Liqiu
Published: June 2024

Directional liquid transport has been widely observed in various species including cacti, spiders, lizards, the pitcher plant
Nepenthes alata
, and
Araucaria
leaves. However, in all these examples the liquid transport for a specific liquid is completely restricted in a fixed direction. We demonstrate that
Crassula muscosa
shoot surfaces have the ability to transport a specific liquid unidirectionally in either direction. This is accomplished through the presence of asymmetric reentrant leaves with varying reentrant angles, which yields the variation in liquid meniscus heterogeneity. These findings enable engineered biomimetic structures capable of selective directional liquid transport, with functions such as intelligent flow direction switching, liquid distribution, and mixing.
High-resolution electron cryomicroscopy of V-ATPase in native synaptic vesicles
Authors: Coupland Claire E. , Karimi Ryan , Bueler Stephanie A. , Liang Yingke , Courbon Gautier M. , Di Trani Justin M. , Wong Cassandra J. , Saghian Rayan , Youn Ji-Young , Wang Lu-Yang , Rubinstein John L.
Published: June 2024

Intercellular communication in the nervous system occurs through the release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft between neurons. In the presynaptic neuron, the proton pumping vesicular- or vacuolar-type ATPase (V-ATPase) powers neurotransmitter loading into synaptic vesicles (SVs), with the V
1
complex dissociating from the membrane region of the enzyme before exocytosis. We isolated SVs from rat brain using SidK, a V-ATPase–binding bacterial effector protein. Single-particle electron cryomicroscopy allowed high-resolution structure determination of V-ATPase within the native SV membrane. In the structure, regularly spaced cholesterol molecules decorate the enzyme’s rotor and the abundant SV protein synaptophysin binds the complex stoichiometrically. ATP hydrolysis during vesicle loading results in a loss of the V
1
region of V-ATPase from the SV membrane, suggesting that loading is sufficient to induce dissociation of the enzyme.
Mapping urban haze
Authors: Karl Thomas
Published: June 2024

Direct airborne measurements of emission fluxes reveal major sources over California
An unexpected corridor to brain metastasis
Authors: Monteran Lea , Erez Neta
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer cells migrate from the bone marrow to the leptomeninges
Membrane and organelle rearrangement during ascospore formation in budding yeast
Authors: Neiman Aaron M.
Published: June 2024

In ascomycete fungi, sexual spores, termed ascospores, are formed after meiosis. Ascospore formation is an unusual cell division in which daughter cells are created within the cytoplasm of the mother cell by
de novo
generation of membranes that encapsulate each of the haploid chromosome sets created by meiosis. This review describes the molecular events underlying the creation, expansion, and closure of these membranes in the budding yeast,
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. Recent advances in our understanding of the regulation of gene expression and the dynamic behavior of different membrane-bound organelles during this process are detailed. While less is known about ascospore formation in other systems, comparison to the distantly related fission yeast suggests that the molecular events will be broadly similar throughout the ascomycetes.
Genomes of diverse Clostridia isolated from a spore forming community in mice that were associated with protection against metabolic syndrome and obesity
Authors: Weis Allison M. , Klag Kendra A. , Bell Rickeshia , Stephens W. Zac , Round June L.
Published: June 2024

Clostridia are common mammalian gut commensals with emerging roles in human health. Here, we describe 10 Clostridia genomes from a consortium of spore forming bacteria, shown to protect mice from metabolic syndrome. These genomes will provide valuable insight on the beneficial role of spore forming bacteria in the gut.
Supplemental Material: High-precision U-Pb geochronology for the Miocene Climate Optimum and a novel approach for calibrating age models in deep-sea sediment cores
Authors: Kasbohm Jennifer , al. et
Published: June 2024

 Materials, methods, and data (Tables S1–S4).  
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data from the NEOLEV1 and NEOLEV2 studies
Authors: Sharpe Cynthia , Yang Derek Z , Haas Richard H , Reiner Gail E , Lee Lilly , Capparelli Edmund V
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To confirm that levetiracetam (LEV) demonstrates predictable pharmacokinetics(PK) at higher doses and to study the pharmacodynamics(PD) of LEV.

Design

Pharmacokinetic data from the NEOLEV1 and NEOLEV2 trials were analysed using a non-linear mixed effects modelling approach. A post hoc analysis of the effect of LEV on seizure burden was conducted.

Setting

Neonatal intensive care unit.

Patients

Term neonates with electrographically confirmed seizures.

Interventions

In NEOLEV1, neonates with seizures persisting following phenobarbital (PHB) received LEV 20 or 40 mg/kg bolus followed by 5 or 10 mg/kg maintenance dose(MD) daily. In NEOLEV2, patients received a 40 mg/kg intravenous LEV load, followed by 10 mg/kg doses 8 hourly. If seizures persisted, a further 20 mg/kg intravenous load was given. If seizures persisted, PHB was given. PK data were collected from 16 NEOLEV1 patients and 33 NEOLEV2 patients. cEEG data from 48 NEOLEV2 patients were analysed to investigate onset of action and seizure burden reduction.

Main outcome measures

Clearance (CL) and volume of distribution (Vd) were determined. Covariates that significantly affected LEV disposition were identified.

Results

Primary outcome: The median initial LEV level was 57 µg/mL (range 19–107) after the first loading dose and at least 12 µg/mL at 48 hours in all infants. CL and Vdwere estimated to be 0.0538 L/hour and 0.832 L, respectively. A direct relationship between postnatal age and CL was observed. The final population pharmacokinetic(PopPK) model described the observed data well without significant biases. CL and Vdwere described as CL (L/hour)=0.0538×(weight in kg/3.34)0.75×(postnatal age in days/5.5) 0.402 and Vd(L)=0.832×(weight in kg/3.34).

Seizure burden reduced within 30 min of LEV administration. 28% of patients were completely seizure free after LEV. In an additional 25% of patients, seizure burden reduced by 50%.

Conclusions

LEV pharmacokinetics remained predictable at higher doses. Very high-dose LEV can now be studied in neonates.

Trial registration number

NCT01720667.
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with Zinner syndrome: a coincidence or a consequence?
Authors: Shah Ravi , Mukherjee Soham , Bhadada Sanjay Kumar , Walia Rama
Published: June 2024

This case report describes a man in his 20s presenting with bilateral crypto-orchidism, micropenis and underdeveloped secondary sexual characteristics. The patient also exhibited hyposmia, eunuchoid stature and gynecomastia. Biochemical investigations revealed low levels of testosterone, luteinising hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. Hence, he was diagnosed with Kallmann syndrome. Imaging studies showed an absent right kidney and cystic dilatation of the distal ureteric bud, seminal vesicle and absent/hypoplastic ejaculatory duct. The association of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with Zinner syndrome, a rare condition characterised by renal agenesis, seminal vesicle cyst and ejaculatory duct obstruction, was noted.
Brachial plexopathy as a complication of axillary artery aneurysm in a case of Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Siddiqui Anjum , Vijayvergia Parag , Kishor Kriti , Kumar Puneet
Published: June 2024

Takayasu arteritis is an inflammatory disease of unknown aetiology affecting large vessels. Medium vessel involvement is also well documented; however, neuropathy as a presenting manifestation is rare. In this case report, a young woman in her 20s presented with an 8-month history of intermittent claudication in the right upper limb progressing to rest pain with allodynia in C5–C8 distribution and painless right axillary mass. On examination, she had absent pulses in the right radial, brachial and subclavian artery with audible bruit in the right subclavian and abdominal aorta. CT angiogram showed features suggestive of Takayasu arteritis with a partially thrombosed aneurysm arising from the right axillary artery leading to compression of the right brachial plexus. This patient received treatment with methotrexate and oral corticosteroids. At 3 months follow-up, there was a reduction in the size of the aneurysm, resolution of compressive symptoms and normalisation of inflammatory markers.
Cohort profile: the Johns Hopkins COVID Long Study (JHCLS)—a US nationwide prospective cohort study
Authors: Wentz Eryka , Ni Zhanmo , Yenokyan Karine , Vergara Candelaria , Pahwa Jessica , Kammerling Thea , Xiao Pu , Duggal Priya , Lau Bryan , Mehta Shruti H
Published: June 2024

Purpose

COVID-19 continues to affect millions of individuals worldwide, both in the short and long term. The post-acute complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection, referred to as long COVID, result in diverse symptoms affecting multiple organ systems. Little is known regarding how the symptoms associated with long COVID progress and resolve over time. The Johns Hopkins COVID Long Study aims to prospectively examine the short-term and long-term consequences of COVID-19 in individuals both with and without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection using self-reported data collected in an online survey.

Participants

16 764 adults with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and 799 adults without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection who completed an online baseline survey.

Findings to date

This cohort profile describes the baseline characteristics of the Johns Hopkins COVID Long Study. Among 16 764 participants with a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and defined long COVID status, 75% reported a very good or excellent health status prior to infection, 99% reported experiencing at least one COVID-19 symptom during the acute phase of infection, 9.9% reported hospitalisation and 63% were defined as having long COVID using the WHO definition.

Future plans

Analysis of longitudinal data will be used to investigate the progression and resolution of long COVID symptoms over time.
Development and evaluation of an algorithm for peripheral venous catheter placement (ALCOV): protocol for a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Slosse Côme , Manneville Florian , Ricci Laetitia , Ostermann Amandine , Klein Sylvie , Bouaziz Hervé , Ambroise-Grandjean Gaëlle
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Multiple punctures during peripheral venous catheter (PVC) placement increase the risk of complications. Scoring for adult difficult intravenous access (A-DIVA Scale) exists but has never been assessed in the framework of a care algorithm (scoring associated with a new decision-making tree for puncture conditions, the A-DIVA Tree). We seek to implement an catheter placement algorithm to decrease the mean number of punctures per patient. The algorithm will be adjusted based on obstacles and levers revealed by the analysis of clinical data. The benefits of the algorithm will be assessed using a step-by-step implementation of the approach.

Methods and analysis

794 PVC placements will be recorded in two inclusion centres (50%/50%). In phase I, 297 PVC placements will be collected, and 16 individual semistructured interviews will be conducted to evaluate the centres’ practices. In phase II, 200 PVC placements will be recorded to assess the impact of the A-DIVA Scale alone. The interphase will allow preliminary results based development of the A-DIVA Tree. In phase III, 297 PVC placements will be recorded to assess the impact of the algorithm on the mean number of punctures per patient.

Ethics and dissemination

The study and related consent forms were approved by an institutional review board (Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud-Méditerranée I) on 25 April 2023 under reference number 2023-A00223-42. The results will be disseminated in the form of original articles, presentations and guidelines.

Trial registration number

NCT05935228.