bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting time‐at‐depth weighted biodiversity patterns for sharks of the North Pacific
Authors: Siders Zachary A. , Trotta Lauren B. , Patrone William , Caltabellotta Fabio P. , Loesser Katherine B. , Baiser Benjamin
Published: April 2024

Depth is a fundamental and universal driver of ocean biogeography but it is unclear how the biodiversity patterns of larger, more mobile organisms change as a function of depth. Here, we developed a predictive biogeography model to explore how information of mobile species' depth preferences influence biodiversity patterns. We employed a literature review to collate shark biotelemetry studies and used open‐access tools to extract 283 total records from 119 studies of 1133 sharks from 35 species. We then matched field guide reported depth ranges and IUCN habitat associations for each shark species to use as covariates in a hurdle variant of ensemble random forests. We successfully fit this model (R2 = 0.63) to the noisy time‐at‐depth observations and used it to predict the time budgets of the northeast Pacific shark regional pool (n = 52). We then assessed how occurrence diversity patterns, informed by minimum and maximum depth of occurrence, compared to time‐at‐depth weighted diversity patterns. Time‐at‐depth weighted richness was highest between 0 and 25 m and at the upper part of the mesopelagic zone, 250–300 m; resulting in little similarity to common depth or elevational biodiversity patterns while the occurrence‐weighted richness pattern was similar to the ‘low‐plateau' pattern. In the phylogenetic and functional dimensions of biodiversity and over three different distance metrics, we found strong but haphazard differences between the occurrence‐ and time‐at‐depth weighted biodiversity patterns. The strong influence of time budgets on biodiversity led us to conclude that occurrence data alone are likely insufficient or even misleading in terms of the depth‐driven biogeographic patterns in the open ocean. Utilizing the increasing amount of time‐at‐depth information from biotelemetry studies in predictive biogeographic models may be critical for capturing the preferences of pelagic, mobile species occupying the largest biome on the planet.
Real‐life effectiveness 1 year after switching to avalglucosidase alfa in late‐onset Pompe disease patients worsening on alglucosidase alfa therapy: A French cohort study
Authors: Tard Céline , Bouhour Françoise , Michaud Maud , Beltran Stephane , Fournier Maxime , Demurger Florence , Lagrange Emmeline , Nollet Sylvain , Sacconi Sabrina , Noury Jean‐Baptiste , Magot Armelle , Cintas Pascal , Renard Dimitri , Deibener‐Kaminsky Joëlle , Lefeuvre Claire , Davion Jean‐Baptiste , Salort‐Campana Emmanuelle , Arrassi Azzeddine , Taouagh Nadjib , Spinazzi Marco ,   Pompe Study Group, Attarian Shahram , Laforêt Pascal
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD) is characterized by a progressive myopathy resulting from a deficiency of acid α‐glucosidase enzyme activity. Enzyme replacement therapy has been shown to be effective, but long‐term treatment results vary. Avalglucosidase alfa demonstrated non‐inferiority to alglucosidase alfa in a phase 3 study, allowing in France compassionate access for advanced LOPD patients unresponsive to alglucosidase alfa.

Methods

Data from the French Pompe registry were analyzed for patients who benefited from a switch to avalglucosidase alfa with at least 1 year of follow‐up. Respiratory (forced vital capacity [FVC]) and motor functions (Six‐Minute Walk Test [6MWT]) were assessed before and 1 year after switching. Individual changes in FVC and 6MWT were expressed as slopes and statistical analyses were performed to compare values.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were included (mean age 56 years, 11 years of prior treatment). The FVC and 6MWT values remained stable. The individual analyses showed a stabilization of motor worsening: –1 m/year on the 6MWT after the switch versus –63 m/year the year before the switch (i.e., a worsening of 33%/year before vs. an improvement of 3%/year later). Respiratory data were not statistically different.

Discussion

At the group level, gait parameters improved slightly with a stabilization of previous worsening, but respiratory parameters showed limited changes. At the individual level, results were discordant, with some patients with a good motor or respiratory response and some with further worsening.

Conclusion

Switching to avalglucosidase alfa demonstrated varied responses in advanced LOPD patients with failing alglucosidase alfa therapy, with a general improvement in motor stabilization.
Identification of a mosaic MTOR variant in purified neuronal DNA in a patient with focal cortical dysplasia using a novel depth electrode harvesting technique
Authors: Klein Karl Martin , Mascarenhas Rumika , Merrikh Daria , Khanbabaei Maryam , Maroilley Tatiana , Kaur Navprabhjot , Liu Yiping , Soule Tyler , Manalo Minette , Tamura Goichiro , Jacobs Julia , Hader Walter , Pfeffer Gerald , Tarailo‐Graovac Maja
Published: April 2024

Objective

Recent studies have identified brain somatic variants as a cause of focal epilepsy. These studies relied on resected tissue from epilepsy surgery, which is not available in most patients. The use of trace tissue adherent to depth electrodes used for stereo electroencephalography (EEG) has been proposed as an alternative but is hampered by the low cell quality and contamination by nonbrain cells. Here, we use our improved depth electrode harvesting technique that purifies neuronal nuclei to achieve molecular diagnosis in a patient with focal cortical dysplasia (FCD).

Methods

Depth electrode tips were collected, pooled by brain region and seizure onset zone, and nuclei were isolated and sorted using fluorescence‐activated nuclei sorting (FANS). Somatic DNA was amplified from neuronal and astrocyte nuclei using primary template amplification followed by exome sequencing of neuronal DNA from the affected pool, unaffected pool, and saliva. The identified variant was validated using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

An 11‐year‐old male with drug‐resistant genetic–structural epilepsy due to left anterior insula FCD had seizures from age 3 years. Stereo EEG confirmed seizure onset in the left anterior insula. The two anterior insula electrodes were combined as the affected pool and three frontal electrodes as the unaffected pool. FANS isolated 140 neuronal nuclei from the affected and 245 neuronal nuclei from the unaffected pool. A novel somatic missense MTOR variant (p.Leu489Met, CADD score 23.7) was identified in the affected neuronal sample. Droplet digital PCR confirmed a mosaic gradient (variant allele frequency = .78% in affected neuronal sample; variant was absent in all other samples).

Significance

Our findings confirm that harvesting neuronal DNA from depth electrodes followed by molecular analysis to identify brain somatic variants is feasible. Our novel method represents a significant improvement compared to the previous method by focusing the analysis on high‐quality cells of the cell type of interest.
Horse owner experiences and observations with the use of SGLT2i for the management of equine metabolic syndrome and hyperinsulinaemia‐associated laminitis
Authors: Sundra Tania , Kelty Erin , Rossi Gabriele , Lester Guy , Rendle David
Published: April 2024

Background

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are being used increasingly in equine practice. While there is emerging clinical evidence of the safety and efficacy of these drugs, there are currently no reports to document owner experiences with treatment.

Objective

The objective of the study was to report owner experiences and observations following treatment with SGLT2i in horses.

Study design

A cross‐sectional online survey.

Methods

Horse owners were recruited via social media, online forums and their veterinarians to participate in an anonymous online survey to document their experiences and observations when treating their horses with SGLT2i.

Results

Three hundred forty‐two responses met the inclusion criteria. Ertugliflozin was the most commonly prescribed SGLT2i (79.8%), and the most common reasons for treatment were high insulin concentrations (84.2%) and active laminitis (59.7%). 85.3% of owners reported their horses had an improved quality of life after commencing treatment, while 9.4% reported no change and 5.3% reported a worsening of clinical signs. Of owners who had considered euthanasia prior to treatment (n = 77), 80.5% reported their horse's level of pain to be either mild or absent after 30 days of treatment and 94.8% reported their horse's quality of life to be improved. Most owners (n = 220, 64.7%) reported they were either extremely satisfied or somewhat satisfied (n = 72, 21.2%) with treatment. Treatment concerns included safety/side effects, medication cost, availability and long‐term efficacy. 114 owners (33.3%) reported one or more initial adverse effects upon induction onto the medication, particularly excessive urination (n = 70, 20.5%), excessive drinking (n = 38, 11.1%), excessive weight loss (n = 34, 9.9%) and dullness (n = 26, 7.6%).

Main limitation

Sampling bias through social media and veterinary practices and reliance on subjective owner reports.

Conclusion

The use of SGLT2i in horses was associated with excellent rates of owner satisfaction and owner‐reported improved quality of life for the horse; however, some adverse effects were observed.
Condylar fracture location is correlated to exercise history in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Bergstrom Thomas C. , Spriet Mathieu , Carpenter Ryan S. , Jacques Kevin L. , Stover Susan M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Condylar fractures are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Thoroughbred racehorses. Condylar fractures have a variety of fracture configurations that suggest there may be differences in aetiopathogenesis.

Objective

To determine if exercise history differs with condylar fracture location in a population of Thoroughbred racehorses.

Study design

Retrospective analysis of clinical and exercise data.

Methods

Exercise history of Thoroughbred racehorses that had condylar fracture repair between 1 January 2018 and 28 February 2021 was compared between racehorses that had fractures located radiographically either within the parasagittal groove (PSG) or abaxial to the PSG (non‐PSG). Age, sex, and last event (race, timed work) matched control groups were compared between the PSG and non‐PSG groups. Additionally, exercise history variables of both groups were each compared with a group‐specific control population, each consisting of three control racehorses of equivalent age and sex matched to each affected racehorse by last event (race or official timed work) before fracture.

Results

Eighty‐two horses with 84 fractures (45 PSG, 39 non‐PSG) met inclusion criteria. Age was not different between groups (PSG: 3.4 ± 1.3 years [mean ± SD], non‐PSG: 3.7 ± 1.3, p = 0.3). Number of races (PSG: 5.3 ± 7.1, non‐PSG: 11.4 ± 8.9, p < 0.001), total race furlongs (PSG: 38.2 ± 54.7, non‐PSG: 79.2 ± 64, p = 0.003), and number of active days (PSG: 304 ± 224, non‐PSG: 488 ± 314, p = 0.003) before fracture were greater; while mean number of layups was fewer (PSG: 1.0 ± 1.2, non‐PSG: 0.5 ± 0.7, p = 0.02) in horses with non‐PSG fracture. Horses with non‐PSG fracture had more differences compared with their respective control group than horses with PSG fractures. Outcomes following fracture repair were not different between groups.

Main limitations

Retrospective study, one regional racehorse population, two‐dimensional imaging and potential inherent bias for fracture localisation, low statistical power for return to performance analysis.

Conclusions

Thoroughbred racehorses with non‐PSG condylar fractures have a more extensive exercise history than horses with PSG condylar fractures, suggesting differences in fracture aetiopathogenesis.
Proteolytic cleavage of the TGFβ co‐receptor CD109 changes its conformation, resulting in protease inhibition via activation of its thiol ester, and dissociation from the cell membrane
Authors: Jensen Kathrine Tejlgård , Nielsen Nadia Sukusu , Viana Almeida Ana , Thøgersen Ida B. , Enghild Jan J. , Harwood Seandean Lykke
Published: April 2024

The glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)‐anchored protein cluster of differentiation 109 (CD109) is expressed on many human cell types and modulates the transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) signaling network. CD109 belongs to the alpha‐macroglobulin family of proteins, known for their protease‐triggered conformational changes. However, the effect of proteolysis on CD109 and its conformation are unknown. Here, we investigated the interactions of CD109 with proteases. We found that a diverse selection of proteases cleaved peptide bonds within the predicted bait region of CD109, inducing a conformational change that activated the thiol ester of CD109. We show CD109 was able to conjugate proteases with this thiol ester and decrease their activity toward protein substrates, demonstrating that CD109 is a protease inhibitor. We additionally found that CD109 has a unique mechanism whereby its GPI‐anchored macroglobulin 8 (MG8) domain dissociates during its conformational change, allowing proteases to release CD109 from the cell surface by a precise mechanism and not unspecific shedding. We conclude that proteolysis of the CD109 bait region affects both its structure and location, and that interactions between CD109 and proteases may be important to understanding its functions, for example, as a TGF‐β co‐receptor.
Characterization of the iron–sulfur clusters in the nitrogenase‐like reductase CfbC/D required for coenzyme F430 biosynthesis
Authors: Vazquez Ramos José , Kulka‐Peschke Catharina J. , Bechtel Dominique F. , Zebger Ingo , Pierik Antonio J. , Layer Gunhild
Published: April 2024

Coenzyme F430 is a nickel‐containing tetrapyrrole, serving as the prosthetic group of methyl‐coenzyme M reductase in methanogenic and methanotrophic archaea. During coenzyme F430 biosynthesis, the tetrapyrrole macrocycle is reduced by the nitrogenase‐like CfbC/D system consisting of the reductase component CfbC and the catalytic component CfbD. Both components are homodimeric proteins, each carrying a [4Fe‐4S] cluster. Here, the ligands of the [4Fe‐4S] clusters of CfbC2 and CfbD2 were identified revealing an all cysteine ligation of both clusters. Moreover, the midpoint potentials of the [4Fe‐4S] clusters were determined to be −256 mV for CfbC2 and −407 mV for CfbD2. These midpoint potentials indicate that the consecutive thermodynamically unfavorable 6 individual “up‐hill” electron transfers to the organic moiety of the Ni2+‐sirohydrochlorin a,c‐diamide substrate require an intricate interplay of ATP‐binding, hydrolysis, protein complex formation and release to drive product formation, which is a common theme in nitrogenase‐like systems.
Microwave dielectric properties of V2O5/CeO2 doped (Mg0.95Ca0.05)TiO3‐MgO and their application to a dielectric filter
Authors: Shan Yiting , Lu Yang , Guo Xiang , Zhou Hongqing
Published: April 2024

The phase composition, microstructure, sintering characteristics, and microwave dielectric properties of nonstoichiometric MgTiO3‐CaTiO3 ceramics containing an additional 0.2 mol MgO, compositely doped with various amounts of V2O5 and CeO2 additives, were studied. The results revealed that adding an optimum amount of V2O5 and CeO2 could effectively impede second‐phase formation in Mg0.95Ca0.05TiO3‐MgO. High amounts of Mg2+ can react with MgTi2O5 to reduce the content of the secondary phase. The addition facilitated the densification of the microstructure and reduction of sintering temperature. Moreover, the dielectric performances of the material were significantly influenced by V2O5 and CeO2. Mg0.95Ca0.05TiO3‐MgO doped with 0.75 wt% CeO2 exhibited excellent frequency and temperature stabilities. In particular, when co‐doped with 0.5 wt% V2O5 and 0.75 wt% CeO2, Mg0.95Ca0.05TiO3‐MgO exhibited optimum properties after sintering at 1300°C for 2 h; a dielectric constant εr ∼ 19.92 (7 GHz),a Q×f value ∼ 65,236 GHz, and a τf value ∼ −2.03 ppm/°C. This indicates the potential of the material for microwave communication applications. Finally, a dielectric filter with a center frequency of 11.55 GHz was successfully designed and fabricated using a Mg0.95Ca0.05TiO3‐MgO sample co‐doped with 0.5 wt% V2O5 and 0.75 wt% CeO2.The filter exhibited excellent performance with a bandwidth of less than 1.5 is about 40 MHz, the loss at the center frequency point was 0.7 dB, and the 3‐dB bandwidth exceeded 200 MHz, which holds a significant practical value.
Understanding family dynamics of obesity: Do parents and children lose and gain weight together?
Authors: Chan Karina M. , Rahem Sarra M. , Teo Hugo O. , Curcio Joan , Mushiyev Savi , Faillace Robert , Bochner Risa , Bargman Renee , Raiszadeh Farbod
Published: April 2024

Background

Obesity is prevalent among children and adults. Yet, understanding the relationship between parent and child weight trajectories is limited.

Objective

(1) Examine the association between parent/child undesirable body mass index (BMI) category change. (2) Assess whether parental BMI category predicts child modified BMI z‐score (mBMIz) annual change.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of weight trajectories of 3821 parent–child dyads between March 2020 and December 2021 within the NYC Health + Hospitals system. Undesirability of child and parental BMI category change and the magnitude of mBMIz change by parental BMI are analysed.

Results

Of 3821 children (mean [SD] baseline age, 9.84 [3.51]), 1889 were female. Of the 3220 parents (mean [SD] baseline age, 39.9 [8.51]), 2988 were female. Most children (53.52%) and parents (81.94%) presented with overweight and obesity. Undesirable BMI change in children was associated with concordant change in parents (adjusted OR: 1.7, 95% CI [1.45, 2.01], adjusted p < 0.001). Children of parents with obesity (adjusted coef: 0.076, 95% CI [0.004, 0.147], p < 0.038) and severe obesity (adjusted coef: 0.1317, 95% CI [0.024, 0.239], adjusted p < 0.016) demonstrated greater change in mBMIz than those of parents with normal weight or underweight.

Conclusion

Parents and children have concordant weight trajectories, and public health interventions targeting both populations are essential.
Study on the risk factors of postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture
Authors: Xiao Ben , Lu Meng , Chen Xiaobin , Qiu Daojing , He Yuanming , Li Xuejun
Published: April 2024

Wound complications after surgery for ankle fractures can lead to catastrophic consequences. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk factors of postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture and to determine their effects on prognosis. 200 patients with ankle fracture treated in our hospital from October 2021 to December 2023 were analysed retrospectively. The total incidence of postoperative wound complications was 19% (38/200). Type of complications: wound edge necrosis 15 cases (39.47%), dehiscence (reopening of wound) 13 cases (34.21%), delayed healing (>30 days) 10 cases (26.32%); Univariate analysis showed that patients' age, body mass index (BMI), current smoking, alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, injury mechanism, open fracture, wound classification, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score and operation time were all associated with postoperative wound complications. Multivariate Logistic regression model shows: age ≥60 years old OR3.671 (1.875–5.937), BMI OR1.198 (1.143–1.324), current smoking OR2.727 (1.251–5.602), alcoholism OR1.143 (1.034–1.267), complicated with diabetes OR2.763 (1.236–4.852), injury mechanism (high vs. low and medium energy) OR2.437 (1.238–4.786), open fracture OR1.943 (1.8262.139), wound classification (II vs. I) OR4.423 (1.73511.674), ASA score (III–IV vs. I–II) OR1.307 (1.113–2.194) was an independent risk factor for postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fracture. Further, ROC curves showed that these nine independent influences had high accuracy and validity in predicting postoperative wound complications in patients with ankle fractures. In conclusion, independent risk factors for postoperative complications of ankle fracture were age >60 years, BMI, injury mechanism, open fracture, wound classification (II vs. I), ASA score, current smoking, and alcoholism. The wound classification (II vs. I) has the highest diagnostic value.
The effects of systemic diseases, genetic disorders and lifestyle on keloids
Authors: Xia Guangpeng , Dohi Teruyuki , Abdelhakim Mohamed , Tosa Mamiko , Ogawa Rei
Published: April 2024

Keloid are a fibroproliferative disorder caused by abnormal healing of skin, specifically reticular dermis, when subjected to pathological or inflammatory scars demonstrating redness, elevation above the skin surface, extension beyond the original wound margins and resulting in an unappealing cosmetic appearance. The severity of keloids and risk of developing keloids scars are subjected to elevation by other contributing factors such as systemic diseases, general health conditions, genetic disorders, lifestyle and natural environment. In particular, recently, daily physical work interpreted into mechanical force as well as the interplay between mechanical factors such as stress, strain and stiffness have been reported to strongly modulate the cellular behaviour of keloid formation, affect their location and shape in keloids. Herein, we review the extensive literature on the effects of these factors on keloids and the contributing predisposing mechanisms. Early understanding of these participating factors and their effects in developing keloids may raise the patient awareness in preventing keloids incidence and controlling its severity. Moreover, further studies into their association with keloids as well as considering strategies to control such factors may help clinicians to prevent keloids and widen the therapeutic options.
Transforming outcome expectations into retention among hospital nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Huang Tzu‐Ling , Chang Hao‐Yuan , Huang Min , Wong Alice May‐Kuen , Yu Wen‐Pin , Cheng T. C. E. , Teng Ching‐I
Published: April 2024

Aim

To examine the main effects and interaction effects of outcome expectations (e.g., anticipated satisfactory salary and benefits), nurse identity (a sense of membership in the nursing profession), and information‐access efficiency of the electronic medical record system (how the system enables nurses to quickly retrieve the needed information) on nurses' retention.

Design

This study uses a cross‐sectional survey and adopts proportionate random sampling to recruit a representative sample of nurses of a medical centre in Taiwan.

Methods

This study successfully obtained completed questionnaires from 430 nurses during December 2021 to January 2022. Data are analysed by using hierarchical regressions.

Results

Positive outcome expectations and identification as a member in the nursing profession are associated with retention. Information‐access efficiency strengthens the link between outcome expectations and retention, while nurse identity weakens this link.

Conclusion

Outcome expectations can help retain nurses, particularly those who perceive high levels of information‐access efficiency and possess weak nurse identity. That is, outcome expectations have a complementary role with nurse identity in retaining nurses.

Implications for the Profession

Nurse managers should devise means to build positive outcome expectations for nurses. In addition, either strengthening nurses' identification with the nursing profession or improving the information‐access efficiency of the electronic medical system may also help retain nurses.

Impact

This study examined how to transform outcome expectation to nurse retention, offering nurse managers to devise new means to retain nurses.

Reporting Method

STROBE statement was chosen as EQUATOR checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Virtually meeting “The Intouchables”: Online contact, sense of community, and prejudice toward people with a disability
Authors: Cocco Veronica M. , Lucarini Alice , White Fiona A. , Vezzali Loris
Published: April 2024

Prejudice toward people with a disability remains an unchallenged global problem. This cross‐sectional study investigated online intergroup contact involving university students without disability (N = 107), participating within a social program aimed at fostering the social inclusion of people with a disability. We tested two separate path models, where positive and negative online contact were the predictors (controlling for positive and negative offline contact), sense of community was the mediator, while social distance from, and attitudes toward people with disability, were the outcome variables. Results showed that greater positive (but not negative) online contact was associated with more positive evaluations and lower social distance toward people with a disability, via heightened sense of community.
GHITM regulates malignant phenotype and sensitivity to PD‐1 blockade of renal cancer cells via Notch signalling
Authors: Huang Shiyu , Liu Jiachen , Hu Juncheng , Hou Yanguang , Hu Min , Zhang Banghua , Luo Hongbo , Fu Shujie , Chen Yujie , Liu Xiuheng , Chen Zhiyuan , Wang Lei
Published: April 2024

Growth hormone inducible transmembrane protein (GHITM), one member of Bax inhibitory protein‐like family, has been rarely studied, and the clinical importance and biological functions of GHITM in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) still remain unknown. In the present study, we found that GHITM was downregulated in KIRC. Aberrant GHITM downregulation related to clinicopathological feature and unfavourable prognosis of KIRC patients. GHITM overexpression inhibited KIRC cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, GHITM overexpression could induce the downregulation of Notch1, which acts as an oncogene in KIRC. Overexpression of Notch1 effectively rescued the inhibitory effect induced by GHITM upregulation. More importantly, GHITM could regulate PD‐L1 protein abundance and ectopic overexpression of GHITM enhanced the antitumour efficiency of PD‐1 blockade in KIRC, which provided new insights into antitumour therapy. Furthermore, we also showed that YY1 could decrease GHITM level via binding to its promoter. Taken together, our study revealed that GHITM was a promising therapeutic target for KIRC, which could modulate malignant phenotype and sensitivity to PD‐1 blockade of renal cancer cells via Notch signalling pathway.
Analysis of the occurrence of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, in the winter season on the southwestern islands of Japan using the insect's strontium radiogenic isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr)
Authors: Hidaka Naoya , Sanada‐Morimura Sachiyo , Akiduki Gaku , Oyadomari Takashi , Higa Shinta , Kinjo Kunio , Ikenoue Yuuki , Shin Ki‐Cheol , Tayasu Ichiro , Otuka Akira
Published: April 2024

Spodoptera frugiperda, an invasive pest insect that targets maize and other crops, first arrived in Japan in the summer of 2019. This species occurs year‐round in East Asian subtropical regions such as southern mainland China and the island of Taiwan, where the mean air temperature in the coldest month is above 10°C. Adults are similarly found throughout the year on the southwestern islands of Japan. Trap monitoring there showed continuous or intermittent S. frugiperda catches in the three winter seasons since 2019. However, it was difficult to distinguish between immigrants arriving from these neighbouring areas and local individuals occurring on each Japanese island. In this study, the possible natal origin of captured insects on five small islands (Yonagunijima, Taramajima, Okinawajima, Amamioshima and Tanegashima) was determined by investigating the strontium radiogenic isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr) and comparing them with those of reference hosts and insects. Since trapping data and the 87Sr/86Sr values of trapped insects didn't support S. frugiperda's winter breeding on the northernmost island, Tanegashima, further analysis was limited to the four southern islands. The 87Sr/86Sr values of reference host plants and reared insects on the four islands ranged from 0.70929 to 0.71009, while those of catch insects ranged from 0.70885 to 0.71090. The 87Sr/86Sr values of the catch insects and the reference on the four islands did not differ significantly. In addition, the monthly averages of daily mean air temperature in January and February 2020–2022 were above 10°C, and the wind direction at the surface was mostly from the northeast or northwest. These pieces of evidence, together with winter host availability, suggested that S. frugiperda occurs year‐round on the islands. In other words, the year‐round occurrence area of S. frugiperda in East Asia extends to the Japanese southwestern islands below Amamioshima Island.
Betamethasone transdermal administration combined with fractional Er:YAG lasers or microplasma radiofrequency technology improved hypertrophic scars: A retrospective study
Authors: Liu Liu , Li Huizheng , Zhang Wen , Cao Mo , Yu Lisha , Cheng Xingjian
Published: April 2024

Objective

This retrospective study aims to compare the efficacy rates in treating hypertrophic scars among four distinct groups of patients who either underwent fractional Erbium: yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Er:YAG) laser or microplasma radiofrequency technology as standalone treatments or in combination with compound betamethasone transdermal administration.

Method

The study retrospectively examined 208 patients treated at our institution from April 2011 to December 2022 for hypertrophic scars, receiving no less than three treatments (with an interval of 8 weeks between each). The patients were categorized into four groups: the F group (treated with fractional Er:YAG laser), the F + B group (treated with fractional Er:YAG laser combined with compound betamethasone transdermal administration), the P group (treated with microplasma radiofrequency technology), and the P + B group (treated with microplasma radiofrequency technology combined with compound betamethasone transdermal administration). The therapeutic effects were evaluated based on the changes in the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores before and after treatment in these groups.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the VSS scores among the four groups before treatment. After undergoing three sessions of the aforementioned four types of treatment, all groups showed a decrease in VSS scores, with average posttreatment VSS scores for the F group scored 5.15 ± 2.084, F + B group scored 3.7 ± 1.781, P group scored 4.41 ± 1.933, and P + B group scored 3.16 ± 1.775, respectively. With an increasing number of treatments, the total effective rate gradually increased in all four groups, and the combination treatment using compound betamethasone transdermal administration proved more effective than the standalone treatment.

Conclusion

All four treatments yielded favorable outcomes, with the combined therapy involving compound betamethasone transdermal administration proving more effective than the standalone treatments, meriting further clinical attention.
What do repatriation and reclamation sound like? Two examples from the Hopi Cultural Preservation Office
Authors: McElgunn Hannah
Published: April 2024

When the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) was passed in 1990, it marked an important shift in relations between tribal communities and non‐tribal museums in the United States. By listening to how different speakers at the Hopi Cultural Preservation Office talk about repatriation and reclamation, we can see that these processes involve more than the return of ancestors and belongings; they also influence how people speak about and express group identity. In discussions about repatriation, Hopi community members frequently talk to outsiders and adjust to their ways of speaking, if only temporarily. I compare two instances in which speakers creatively used possessive constructions to convey different scales of identity and argue that Bakhtin's concept of “addressivity” illuminates connections between the two. More broadly, I suggest that this concept is useful for thinking about how relationships between tribal and non‐tribal institutions might continue to be transformed in ways that are responsive to contemporary Indigenous claims and presence.
Melatonin receptor structure and signaling
Authors: Okamoto Hiroyuki H. , Cecon Erika , Nureki Osamu , Rivara Silvia , Jockers Ralf
Published: April 2024

Melatonin (5‐methoxy‐N‐acetyltryptamine) binds with high affinity and specificity to membrane receptors. Several receptor subtypes exist in different species, of which the mammalian MT1 and MT2 receptors are the best‐characterized. They are members of the G protein‐coupled receptor superfamily, preferentially coupling to Gi/o proteins but also to other G proteins in a cell‐context‐depending manner. In this review, experts on melatonin receptors will summarize the current state of the field. We briefly report on the discovery and classification of melatonin receptors, then focus on the molecular structure of human MT1 and MT2 receptors and highlight the importance of molecular simulations to identify new ligands and to understand the structural dynamics of these receptors. We then describe the state‐of‐the‐art of the intracellular signaling pathways activated by melatonin receptors and their complexes. Brief statements on the molecular toolbox available for melatonin receptor studies and future perspectives will round‐up this review.
Fasting and digestion exert opposite effects on collective behavior in goldfish across contexts
Authors: Zeng L.‐Q. , Fu S.‐J.
Published: April 2024

Animal groups are often composed of individuals with differences in their phenotypes (e.g. body size, personality, or internal nutritional state). Such differences in phenotypes between group mates can have significant consequences for the collective movement and behavior of a group. Here, we examined the effects of nutritional state and ecological context on the individual‐ and group‐level behaviors of groups of shoaling goldfish (Carassius auratus) across an open water environment, an environment with food, and an environment with food and refuge. Fish were randomly manipulated to be in one of three nutritional states (control: fasted for 24 h, fasting: fasted for 1 week, and digestion: 2 h after feeding) and comprised five group compositions: the all‐control (6 control fish), all‐fasting (6 fasted fish), all‐digestion (6 digesting fish), mixed con–fas (3 control fish and 3 fasted fish), and mixed con–dig treatment (3 control fish and 3 digesting fish). We found that compared to the control and fasted treatments, the fish in the digestion treatment had lower individual swimming speeds and nearest neighbor distances. However, group polarization was lower in the fasted treatment than in both the control and digestion treatments. For the two mixed treatments, individual and collective behaviors of the fish seemed to be intermediate in comparison to those of either the fasted or digestion treatments. Moreover, group‐level differences in collective behaviors were maintained across different contexts. All five treatments exhibited considerable context‐associated changes in collective behaviors, but behavioral repeatability was dependent on the nutritional state of the group composition. Our results suggest that nutritional state and ecological context influence both individual and collective behaviors and that fasting and digestion exert opposite effects on collective behaviors across ecological contexts.
Macrophage activation markers are associated with infection and mortality in patients with acute liver failure
Authors: Cavazza Anna , Triantafyllou Evangelos , Savoldelli Roberto , Mujib Salma , Jerome Ellen , Trovato Francesca M. , Artru Florent , Sheth Roosey , Huang Xiao Hong , Ma Yun , Dazzi Francesco , Pirani Tasneem , Antoniades Charalambos G. , Lee William M. , McPhail Mark J. , Karvellas Constantine J. ,   the US Acute Liver Failure Study Group
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Acute liver failure is a multisystem disorder with a high mortality and frequent need for emergency liver transplantation. Following massive innate immune system activation, soluble markers of macrophage activation are released during liver damage and their association with disease severity and prognosis requires exploration.

Methods

Patients ALF from the United States Acute Liver Failure Study Group (USALFSG, n = 224) and King's College Hospital (n = 40) together with healthy controls (HC, n = 50) were recruited. Serum from early (Days 1–3) and late (>Day 3) time points were analysed for MAMs by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay correlated to markers of illness severity and 21‐day spontaneous survival. Surface expression phenotyping was performed via Flow Cytometry on CD14+ monocytes.

Results

All MAMs serum concentrations were significantly higher in ALF compared to controls (p < .0001). sCD206 concentration was higher in early and late stages of the disease in patients with bacteraemia (p = .002) and infection in general (p = .006). In MELD‐adjusted multivariate modelling, sCD206 and sCD163 were independently associated with mortality. CD14+ monocyte expression of CD206 (p < .001) was higher in patients with ALF compared with controls and correlated with SOFA score (p = .018). sCD206 was independently validated as a predictor of infection in an external cohort.

Conclusions

sCD206 is increased in serum of ALF patients with infections and poor outcome and is upregulated on CD14+ monocytes. Later measurements of sCD163 and sCD206 during the evolution of ALF have potential as mechanistic predictors of mortality. sCD206 should be explored as a biomarker of sepsis and mortality in ALF.
Are fishers captive labourers in reservoir fisheries? Examining governance models and economics in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, India
Authors: Bunkar Khemraj , Pachampalayam Shanmugam Ananthan , Qureshi Neha Wajahat , Chandrasekaran Sundaramoorthy , Sharma Laxmi Lal
Published: April 2024

Inland fisheries are a source of fish as well as livelihoods for as many as 82% of the total 28 million engaged in the Indian fisheries sector. Reservoir fisheries are a significant component but remain largely untapped, both as a potential resource for development as well as a site of academic interest. The importance of institutional arrangements in governing natural resources is fairly recognized. However, empirical examination of how governance regimes interact with and impact the economic benefits from natural resource extraction for its principal actors is less explored, at least in the Indian context. Through case studies of two uniquely located and differently governed fisheries of Gandhi Sagar (GS, Madhya Pradesh) and Rana Pratap Sagar (RPS, Rajasthan) reservoirs in the Chambal River valley, it investigates the (in)equity in benefit sharing among labour (fishers), capital (fishing contractor), and the management (custodian‐state). Neither a purely revenue model of reservoir fisheries governance in RPS nor a seemingly revenue cum welfare model in GS has enhanced the income of nearly 2590 small‐scale fishers above their subsistence levels, though the latter provides welfare benefits to its 2209 dependent fishers through cooperatives. Of the gross annual income of INR 13,874/ha in GS and INR 16,126/ha in RPS, the fishers have only one‐third share in both cases, while the fishing contractors have 22% (GS) and 34% (RPS), and the resource managers have 29% (GS) and 15% (RPS) share, with the remaining 15% (GS) and 18% (RPS) accounted for by other costs, making the benefit sharing arrangement inequitable for fishers. Two key reforms, immediate market‐linked upward revision of sale‐price at which fish caught by fishers are collected by the contractors (from INR 33/kg to INR 65/kg), and long‐term organization of fisher cooperatives as empowered collectives able to exercise their agency and co‐manage the resource, are essential to ensure the fishers do not become captive labourers.
Incidence and risk factors of reflux esophagitis after peroral endoscopic myotomy
Authors: Wessels Elise M. , Masclee Gwen M. C. , Bastiaansen Barbara A. J. , Fockens Paul , Bredenoord Albert J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an effective and safe treatment for achalasia, but often leads to posttreatment gastroesophageal reflux disease. The aim of this study was to examine the incidence and severity of reflux esophagitis after POEM and to identify associated predictive factors.

Methods

Patients who underwent POEM between August 2011 and December 2022 were included. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess predictive factors for reflux esophagitis after POEM.

Key Results

In total, 252 patients were included; of which, 46% were female and age ranged between 18 and 87 years. Reflux esophagitis within 1 year after POEM was observed in 131 patients (52%), which was severe in 29 patients (LA grade C/D, 12%). Length of full‐thickness myotomy (cm; OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21), Eckardt scores before POEM (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74–0.96), previous pneumatic dilation (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.29–0.91), and previous laparoscopic Heller myotomy (LHM; OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.23–0.86) were associated with reflux esophagitis after POEM. Alcohol use (none vs > 7 units per week; OR 3.51, 95% CI 1.35–9.11) and overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m2; OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.17–6.09) were positive predictive factors and previous LHM (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02–0.95) was a negative predictive factor for severe reflux esophagitis after POEM (LA grade C/D).

Conclusion

About half of the patients develop reflux esophagitis after POEM and 12% is graded as severe. Recognizing predictive factors of reflux esophagitis after POEM treatment leads to better patient selection before POEM and provides an opportunity to take preventive measures or start preemptive treatment.
Activating plant immunity: the hidden dance of intracellular Ca2+ stores
Authors: Wang Qi , Cang Xiaoyan , Yan Haiqiao , Zhang Zilu , Li Wei , He Jinyu , Zhang Meixiang , Lou Laiqing , Wang Ran , Chang Ming
Published: April 2024

Calcium ion (Ca2+) serves as a versatile and conserved second messenger in orchestrating immune responses. In plants, plasma membrane‐localized Ca2+‐permeable channels can be activated to induce Ca2+ influx from extracellular space to cytosol upon pathogen infection. Notably, different immune elicitors can induce dynamic Ca2+ signatures in the cytosol. During pattern‐triggered immunity, there is a rapid and transient increase in cytosolic Ca2+, whereas in effector‐triggered immunity, the elevation of cytosolic Ca2+ is strong and sustained. Numerous Ca2+ sensors are localized in the cytosol or different intracellular organelles, which are responsible for detecting and converting Ca2+ signals. In fact, Ca2+ signaling coordinated by cytosol and subcellular compartments plays a crucial role in activating plant immune responses. However, the complete Ca2+ signaling network in plant cells is still largely ambiguous. This review offers a comprehensive insight into the collaborative role of intracellular Ca2+ stores in shaping the Ca2+ signaling network during plant immunity, and several intriguing questions for future research are highlighted.
ACL5 acquired strict thermospermine synthesis activity during the emergence of vascular plants
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihiro
Published: April 2024

Norspermine (Nspm), one of the uncommon polyamines (PAs), was detected in bryophytes and lycophytes; therefore, the aminopropyltransferases involved in the synthesis of Nspm were investigated.

The enzymatic activity was evaluated by the transient high expression of various aminopropyltransferase genes in Nicotiana benthamiana, followed by quantification of PA distribution in the leaves using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry.

The bryophyte orthologues of ACL5, which is known to synthesise thermospermine (Tspm) in flowering plants, were found to have strong Nspm synthesis activity. In addition, two ACL5 orthologous with different substrate specificities were conserved in Selaginella moellendorffii, one of which was involved in Tspm synthesis and the other in Nspm synthesis. Therefore, further detailed analysis using these two factors revealed that the β‐hairpin structural region consisting of β‐strands 1 and 2 at the N‐terminus of ACL5 is involved in substrate specificity.

Through functional analysis of a total of 40 ACL5 genes in 33 organisms, including algae, it was shown that ACL5 has changed its substrate specificity several times during plant evolution and diversification. Furthermore, it was strongly suggested that ACL5 acquired strict Tspm synthesis activity during the emergence of vascular plants, especially through major changes around the β‐hairpin structural region.
Isoform‐resolved genome annotation enables mapping of tissue‐specific betalain regulation in amaranth
Authors: Winkler Tom S. , Vollmer Susanne K. , Dyballa‐Rukes Nadine , Metzger Sabine , Stetter Markus G.
Published: April 2024

Betalains are coloring pigments produced in some families of the order Caryophyllales, where they replace anthocyanins as coloring pigments. While the betalain pathway itself is well studied, the tissue‐specific regulation of the pathway remains mostly unknown.

We enhance the high‐quality Amaranthus hypochondriacus reference genome and produce a substantially more complete genome annotation, incorporating isoform details. We annotate betalain and anthocyanin pathway genes along with their regulators in amaranth and map the genetic control and tissue‐specific regulation of the betalain pathway.

Our improved genome annotation allowed us to identify causal mutations that lead to a knock‐out of red betacyanins in natural accessions of amaranth. We reveal the tissue‐specific regulation of flower color via a previously uncharacterized MYB transcription factor, AhMYB2. Downregulation of AhMYB2 in the flower leads to reduced expression of key betalain enzyme genes and loss of red flower color.

Our improved amaranth reference genome represents the most complete genome of amaranth to date and is a valuable resource for betalain and amaranth research. High similarity of the flower betalain regulator AhMYB2 to anthocyanin regulators and a partially conserved interaction motif support the co‐option of anthocyanin regulators for the betalain pathway as a possible reason for the mutual exclusiveness of the two pigments.
Is RNA editing truly absent in the complex thalloid liverworts (Marchantiopsida)? Evidence of extensive RNA editing from Cyathodium cavernarum
Authors: Shen Chao , Xu Hao , Huang Wen‐Zhuan , Zhao Qiong , Zhu Rui‐Liang
Published: April 2024

RNA editing is a crucial modification in plants' organellar transcripts that converts cytidine to uridine (C‐to‐U; and sometimes uridine to cytidine) in RNA molecules. This post‐transcriptional process is controlled by the PLS‐class protein with a DYW domain, which belongs to the pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) protein family. RNA editing is widespread in land plants; however, complex thalloid liverworts (Marchantiopsida) are the only group reported to lack both RNA editing and DYW‐PPR protein.

The liverwort Cyathodium cavernarum (Marchantiopsida, Cyathodiaceae), typically found in cave habitats, was newly found to have 129 C‐to‐U RNA editing sites in its chloroplast and 172 sites in its mitochondria.

The Cyathodium genus, specifically C. cavernarum, has a large number of PPR editing factor genes, including 251 DYW‐type PPR proteins. These DYW‐type PPR proteins may be responsible for C‐to‐U RNA editing in C. cavernarum.

Cyathodium cavernarum possesses both PPR DYW proteins and RNA editing. Our analysis suggests that the remarkable RNA editing capability of C. cavernarum may have been acquired alongside the emergence of DYW‐type PPR editing factors. These findings provide insight into the evolutionary pattern of RNA editing in land plants.