bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable offsets and processing of implicit forms toward the adaptive synthesis and analysis of heterogeneous conforming microstructure
Authors: Hong Q. Y. , Antolin P. , Elber G. , Kim M.‐S.
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of porous, lattice, or microstructure geometries has captured the attention of many researchers in recent years. Implicit forms, such as triply periodic minimal surfaces (TPMS) has captured a significant attention, recently, as tiles in lattices, partially because implicit forms have the potential for synthesizing with ease more complex topologies of tiles, compared to parametric forms. In this work, we show how variable offsets of implicit forms could be used in lattice design as well as lattice analysis, while graded wall and edge thicknesses could be fully controlled in the lattice and even vary within a single tile. As a result, (geometrically) heterogeneous lattices could be created and adapted to follow analysis results while maintaining continuity between adjacent tiles. We demonstrate this ability on several 3D models, including TPMS.
Bride kidnapping and informal governance institutions
Authors: Porreca Zachary
Published: October 2024

Bride kidnapping, a forced marriage practice, has surged in post‐Soviet Kyrgyzstan alongside a revival of traditional values. The central government has empowered councils of elders, or aksakals, to handle local disputes based on cultural norms, including bride kidnapping. This study uses data from a national survey and a latent class nested logit model to examine how aksakal governance influences men's decisions to kidnap brides. Findings indicate that living under aksakal governance makes men 9% more likely to obtain a wife through bride capture, with men substituting kidnapping for choice marriage modalities such as elopement and standard love marriages.
Non‐Native, Non‐Naturalised Plants Suffer Less Herbivory Than Native Plants Across European Botanical Gardens
Authors: Ivison Katy , van Kleunen Mark , Speed James D. M. , Vange Vibekke , Pujara Sonia , Boch Steffen , Enters Dirk , Groom Quentin , Janovský Zdeněk , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Joshi Jasmin , Kolb Annette , Kollmann Johannes , Koubek Tomáš , Lemke Tristan , Matthies Diethart , Raabová Jana , Tielbörger Katja , Dawson Wayne
Published: October 2024

Aim

The enemy release hypothesis states that the invasion success of non‐native species is partly due to their escape from natural enemies, e.g., herbivores. Large‐scale studies of herbivory using multiple species across multiple sites are needed to test the generality of herbivory release in non‐native plants.

Location

Europe.

Methods

We carried out leaf‐herbivory surveys from 2007 to 2021 in 15 botanical gardens ranging in latitude from 47°N (Switzerland) to 63°N (Norway) to investigate how herbivory levels differed between (i) native and non‐native species, and (ii) native and non‐naturalised or naturalised species.

Results

Overall, we found that herbivory levels were lower on non‐native than native species. In addition, we found that non‐naturalised plants suffered less herbivory than natives and that naturalised plants showed similar levels of herbivory to native plants.

Main Conclusions

We find broad support for lower herbivory of non‐native plant species compared to natives. However, the stronger reduction in herbivory for non‐naturalised plants suggests that herbivore release may be transient and less pronounced for naturalised non‐native species that have become abundant and integrated into resident communities. This has implications for the management of naturalised non‐native plants, which are performing well in their non‐native ranges despite suffering comparable herbivory levels to native species.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Children's Persistence in the Context of Diminishing Rewards
Authors: Kim Seokyung , Berry Daniel , Carlson Stephanie M.
Published: October 2024

Persistence on a task is both beneficial and costly, so it is important to understand how children learn to effectively balance between perseverance and seeking alternatives to reach a goal by monitoring their performance and tracking their progress over time (“adaptive persistence”). Typically developing children (N = 136) ages 3–7 years in the Midwest United States were invited to catch pretend fish at 7 ordered ponds with increasing numbers of fish. Unbeknownst to children, however, the probability of catching fish decreased across successive ponds, making it most rational to briefly “explore” new ponds to learn the payoff structure and then to “exploit” the earlier ponds before their chances ended. A latent class analysis of children's choices suggested three distinct patterns: (a) Explorers (55%), who repeatedly explored novel ponds, despite their lower rewards, (b) Exploiters (24%), who rapidly returned to earlier, more lucrative ponds, and (c) Balancers (21%), who began by exploring novel ponds but later returned to exploit the earlier, more lucrative ponds. Older children showed a greater probability of being classified as Exploiters or Balancers over Explorers. Controlling for age, children with higher executive function and metacognition tended to be classified as Balancers or Exploiters rather than Explorers. These findings suggest that self‐regulation is a potential target for interventions aiming to support children's effective and fulfilling decisions.
Cost‐utility analysis of once‐weekly insulin icodec and once‐daily insulin glargine in patients with type 2 diabetes receiving basal‐bolus insulin therapy in China
Authors: Dai Nan , Su Xiaorong , Wang Yong
Published: October 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to explore the rational pricing range for the once‐weekly administration of insulin icodec in the treatment of type 2 diabetes patients in China who have already received basal insulin therapy.

Methods

The data foundation of this study originates from the ONWARDS 4 clinical trial and research materials on Chinese type 2 diabetes patients. By comprehensively applying cost‐utility analysis methods and binary search techniques, the appropriate price positioning of insulin icodec was determined from the perspective of China's healthcare system.

Results

In the long‐term treatment simulation, we found that insulin icodec and insulin glargine performed similarly in terms of quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs), with 10.15 and 10.07 years, respectively. Although the annual cost of insulin icodec was initially assumed to be equivalent to that of insulin glargine, in‐depth analysis revealed that insulin icodec may have higher cost‐effectiveness potential. Further price sensitivity analysis indicated that the reasonable cost range of insulin icodec lies between $851.95 and $1358.25. After fine‐tuning through univariate sensitivity analysis, this cost range was revised to $784.90 to $1145.96, a conclusion that was robustly validated in subsequent probabilistic sensitivity analysis and scenario simulations.

Conclusion

The conclusion drawn from this study is that, with insulin glargine as the cost reference, the economic cost of insulin icodec for Chinese type 2 diabetes patients is expected to range from $784.90 to $1145.96, providing a reference basis for clinical decision‐making and healthcare policy formulation.
The alteration of serotonergic markers in the amygdala and raphe nuclei of oestrogen receptor β knock‐out female mice
Authors: Kalinowski Daniel , Bogus‐Nowakowska Krystyna
Published: October 2024

The amygdala and raphe nuclei, which play crucial roles in mood regulation, are influenced by serotonergic neurotransmission. Alterations in this neurotransmission are associated with mood disorders. Therefore, using immunohistochemistry and quantitative methods this study was designed to evaluate potential alterations in the expression of serotoninergic markers in the amygdala and raphe nuclei of mice with oestrogen receptor β (ERβ) knock out which exhibit increased anxiety as evidenced by reduced locomotion and increased thigmotaxis. These alterations could either contribute to heightened anxiety or serve as a compensatory strategy for reducing it. The results show that in ERβ knock‐out mice, 5‐HT1B expression is significantly increased in the amygdala, while 5‐HTT expression is significantly decreased in both the amygdala and raphe nuclei. Furthermore, ERβ deficiency does not affect TPH2. In conclusion, serotonin signalling is altered in the amygdala and raphe nuclei of ERβ knock‐out females. It seems that an increase in 5‐HTT levels has been associated with reduced anxiety, whereas a decrease in 5‐HT1B receptors may encourage fear. However, further studies are required to determine the exact role of ERβ in anxiety‐related behaviour.
Prevalence and predictors of help‐seeking steps in a nationally representative Dutch sample of romantic couples
Authors: Conradi Henk Jan , Noordhof Arjen , Kamphuis Jan H.
Published: October 2024

Couples appear to frequently experience relationship problems, yet estimates of the prevalence and prediction of three distinct help‐seeking steps, (1) recognition of serious relationship dissatisfaction, (2) considering help, and (3) receiving relationship help, are unknown for representative population samples. This is unfortunate as such knowledge may inform policy makers in the development of strategies to motivate couples to seek help. The prevalence of these steps along with reasons for not acquiring help was studied in a representative population sample of 1014 Dutch heterosexual couples. Multilevel Actor‐Partner Interdependence Modeling (APIM) analyses estimated the extent to which static socio‐demographic factors were predictive of help‐seeking behaviors. Of all partners, 28.6% reported having ever been seriously dissatisfied with their relationship (step 1), of which 86.2% had told their partner they were dissatisfied, on average 1.5 years after onset of the dissatisfaction. Of the seriously dissatisfied partners 36.4% considered professional relationship help (step 2) and 19.5% eventually received help (step 3), on average 3.7 years after the onset of dissatisfaction. Of these, 88.5% consulted a (couple) therapist. Main reasons for not acquiring help were that “things got better” (48.8%) and “the partner did not want relationship help” (35.4%), whereas financial considerations and shame were rarely endorsed. Although serious relationship dissatisfaction was common (i.e., 40.1% of all couples consisted of at least one partner who was ever dissatified), few couples sought help and they did so rather late. Waxing and waning of dissatisfaction often guided the decision to not seek help. Women and younger partners were more proactive in help‐seeking. Marital status, having children, and education were largely unrelated to help‐seeking.
Structural and biophysical characterisation of ubiquitin variants that inhibit the ubiquitin conjugating enzyme Ube2d2
Authors: McAlpine Jeffery M. R. B. , Zhu Jingyi , Pudjihartono Nicholas , Teyra Joan , Currie Michael J. , Tillett Zachary D. , Dobson Renwick C. J. , Sidhu Sachdev S. , Day Catherine L. , Middleton Adam J.
Published: October 2024

The ubiquitin‐conjugating E2 enzymes play a central role in ubiquitin transfer. Disruptions to the ubiquitin system are implicated in multiple diseases, and as a result, molecules that modulate the activity of the ubiquitin system are of interest. E2 enzyme function relies on interactions with partner proteins, and the disruption of these is an effective way to modulate activity. Here, we report the discovery of ubiquitin variants (UbVs) that inhibit the E2 enzyme, Ube2d2 (UbcH5b). The six UbVs identified inhibit ubiquitin chain building, and the structural and biophysical characterisation of two of these demonstrate they bind to Ube2d2 with low micromolar affinity and high specificity. Both characterised UbVs bind at a site that overlaps with E1 binding, while the more inhibitory UbV has an additional binding site that blocks a critical non‐covalent ubiquitin‐binding site on the E2 enzyme. The discovery of novel protein‐based ubiquitin derivatives that inhibit protein–protein interactions is an important step towards discovering small molecules that inhibit the activity of E2 enzymes. Furthermore, the specificity of the UbVs within the Ube2d family suggests that it may be possible to develop tools to selectively inhibit highly related E2 enzymes.
The interplay of resource availability and parent foraging strategies on juvenile sparrow individual specialization
Authors: Ricote Natalia , Weinberger Constanza , Ramírez‐Otarola Natalia , Bustamante Sara , Málaga María Lucía , Barceló Gonzalo , Sabat Pablo , Newsome Seth D. , Maldonado Karin
Published: October 2024

Temporal variation in resource availability, amplified by global change, may have strong impacts on species breeding at temperate and high latitudes that cue their reproduction to exploit seasonal resource pulses. This study examines how resource availability and parental care influence niche partitioning between and within age classes in the rufous‐collared sparrow, which provides extensive parental care. We hypothesized juveniles would exhibit narrower niches focused on high‐quality resources compared to adults, regardless of resource availability. We used stable isotope analysis to quantify individual and population niches in juveniles and adults across the breeding season in two cohorts experiencing contrasting resource landscapes. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, juveniles exhibited greater among‐individual diet variation and smaller total niche widths (i.e. higher levels of individual specialization, IS) during periods of high food availability in comparison to periods of food scarcity. Interestingly, total niche width and IS of adults remained stable across seasons despite a shift in trophic level, highlighting their potential role in providing a consistent diet for their young. These findings reveal a dynamic interplay between resource availability, parental care, and IS, with important implications for understanding population resilience under variable resource scenarios. The study also suggests that adult sparrows modify their provisioning strategies based on resources, potentially buffering offspring from environmental fluctuations. Understanding age‐specific responses to resource variation is crucial for predicting species responses to ecological conditions, particularly in regions like central Chile where seasonal resource limitation is expected to become more variable in response to climate change.
Knowledge, practices and perceptions of energy labelling of nut products among Australian consumers and stakeholders: an online survey
Authors: Nikodijevic Cassandra J. , Probst Yasmine C. , Tan Sze‐Yen , Neale Elizabeth P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Nut consumption in Australia is low, perhaps due to concerns with weight gain. However, nut consumption is not associated with increased weight, in part because of their lower metabolisable energy. Current energy labelling for nuts use Atwater factors, which over‐represent the available energy from nuts. Therefore, this research aimed to examine stakeholders' knowledge, practices and perceptions of displaying true metabolisable energy on nutrition labels and its perceived impact on nut consumption.

Methods

An anonymous and voluntary survey was conducted online. Eligible respondents lived in Australia, were aged 18 years or older and had either no formal nutrition education (consumer group) or had formal training and were working as a stakeholder (stakeholder group; working in nutrition/dietetics, public health, food industry, food regulation or nut growing). Convenience sampling and snowballing were used to recruit respondents primarily via online advertisement.

Results

Three hundred and forty‐eight respondents (63.2% female; 71.0% aged 18–39 years; 69.0% Bachelor's degree or higher) were included in the analyses. A larger proportion of stakeholders agreed that nut consumption assists with weight management (67.9%) compared with consumers (47.6%). Theoretical food packaging showing both Atwater and metabolisable energy in the nutrition information panel was favoured among consumers and stakeholders, though 62.3% of consumers reported that a lower metabolisable energy of nuts would not impact their consumption.

Conclusions

This study indicates a need to further investigate the impact of metabolisable energy labelling on nut intake. Further education about the relationship between nuts and body weight is required for consumers and stakeholders.
Bertiella mucronata in Black‐and‐Gold Howler Monkey (Alouatta caraya) in Minas Gerais State, Brazil
Authors: Debortoli Gabriele Zaine Teixeira , Gomes‐Batista Victor Luiz , Ribeiro Cibelli Silva , Ramos Dirceu Guilherme de Souza , Moraes Iago de Sá , Castilho Maíra Sales , Zanfagnini Leticia Gomes , Dias Neto Ramiro das Neves , Sousa Carlos Augusto dos Santos , Santos‐Doni Thaís Rabelo
Published: October 2024

This is the first reported case of Bertiella mucronata infection in a black‐and‐gold howler monkey (Alouatta caraya) in Brazil. The present study confirms the widespread of B. mucronata in South America and suggest that black‐and‐gold howler monkeys may serve as viable reservoirs for B. mucronata.
The Growth Performance, Haematological Parameters and Serum Biochemistry of the Flathead Grey Mullet Mugil cephalus Under Recirculating Aquaculture System and Traditional Culture Systems
Authors: Badran Mohamed F. , Ali Mervat A. M. , Yusuf Mohamed S.
Published: October 2024

The present investigation explored the growth performance, haematological parameters and serum biochemistry of flathead grey mullet under recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) and traditional culture systems. Nine hundred healthy fish, weighing 43.80 ± 3.55 g and length 16.54 ± 0.82 cm were randomly distributed to three treatments of RAS and traditional culture systems (T1: 20% of water changed daily; T2: once‐through system 250 L/h; T3: RAS—20% of water changed weekly) in nine concrete tanks of 4000 L at stocking density of 100 fish/tank and each treatment had three replicates. Fish were fed (33.1% crude protein, 3 mm pellets) twice a day at a rate of 3% for 12 weeks. These findings suggest that the T3 followed by T2 led to notable improvements in growth performance compared to other culture systems. Significantly elevated values of weight gain, length gain, specific growth rate, average daily gain and survival % were observed in T3. The RBCs exhibited a significant decrease under T2. Haemoglobin concentrations and WBC counts significantly increased under RAS. Significant values of mean cell haemoglobin and mean cell haemoglobin concentration were recorded in T2. Total protein, albumin and globulin enhanced significantly under RAS, whereas the highest values of cortisol were observed in T2 and T3. These findings demonstrate that the RAS followed by once‐through system significantly improve growth performance, feed efficiency and survival, as well as enhancing the haematology and serum biochemical status of flathead grey mullet. In conclusion, RAS provides ideal conditions for optimizing physiological functions, growth performance and fish health.
Restricted Dispersal and Phenotypic Response to Water Depth in a Foundation Seagrass
Authors: Sotka Erik E. , Hughes A. Randall , Hanley Torrance C. , Hays Cynthia G.
Published: October 2024

Species conservation and management benefit from precise understanding of natural patterns of dispersal and genetic variation. Using recent advances in indirect genetic methods applied to both adult plants and dispersed seeds, we find that the mean seed dispersal in a threatened marine foundation plant (the eelgrass Zostera marina) is approximately 100–200 m. This distance is surprisingly more similar to that of wind‐dispersed terrestrial seeds (~10s to 100s of meters) than the passive dispersal of marine propagules via currents (~10s to 100s of kilometres). Because nearshore marine plants like Zostera are commonly distributed across strong selective gradients driven by bathymetry (depth) even within these restricted spatial scales, seeds are capable of dispersing to novel water depths and experiencing profound shifts in light availability, temperature and wave exposure. We documented strong phenotypic variation and genome‐wide differentiation among plants separated by approximately the spatial scale of mean realised dispersal. This result suggests genetic isolation by environment in response to depth‐related environmental gradients as one plausible explanation for this pattern. The ratio of effective to census size (or Ne/Nc) approximated 0.1%, indicating that a fraction of existing plants provides the genetic variation to allow adaptation to environmental change. Our results suggest that successful conservation of seagrass meadows that can adapt to microspatial and temporal variation in environmental conditions will be low without direct and persistent intervention using large numbers of individuals or a targeted selection of genotypes.
Orthopteran Neo‐Sex Chromosomes Reveal Dynamics of Recombination Suppression and Evolution of Supergenes
Authors: Jayaprasad Suvratha , Peona Valentina , Ellerstrand Simon J. , Rossini Roberto , Bunikis Ignas , Pettersson Olga V. , Olsen Remi‐André , Rubin Carl‐Johan , Einarsdottir Elisabet , Bonath Franziska , Bradford Tessa M. , Cooper Steven J. B. , Hansson Bengt , Suh Alexander , Kawakami Takeshi , Schielzeth Holger , Palacios‐Gimenez Octavio M.
Published: October 2024

The early evolution of sex chromosomes has remained obscure for more than a century. The Vandiemenella viatica species group of morabine grasshoppers is highly suited for studying the early stages of sex chromosome divergence and degeneration of the Y chromosome. This stems from the fact that neo‐XY sex chromosomes have independently evolved multiple times by X‐autosome fusions with different autosomes. Here, we generated new chromosome‐level assemblies for two chromosomal races representing karyotypes with and without neo‐sex chromosomes (P24XY and P24X0), and sequence data of a third chromosomal race with a different neo‐XY chromosome system (P25XY). Interestingly, these two neo‐XY chromosomal races are formed by different X‐autosome fusions (involving chr1 and chrB, respectively), and we found that both neo‐Y chromosomes have partly ceased to recombine with their neo‐X counterpart. We show that the neo‐XY chromosomes have diverged through accumulation of SNPs and structural mutations, and that many neo‐Y‐linked genes have degenerated since recombination ceased. However, the non‐recombining regions of neo‐Y chromosomes host non‐degenerated genes crucial for sex determination, such as sex‐lethal and transformer, alongside genes associated with spermatogenesis, fertility, and reproduction, illustrating their integrative role as a masculinizing supergene. Contrary to expectations, the neo‐Y chromosomes showed (slightly) lower density of transposable elements (TEs) compared to other genomic regions. The study reveals the unique dynamics of young sex chromosomes, with evolution of recombination suppression and pronounced decay of (some) neo‐sex chromosome genes, and provides a compelling case illustrating how chromosomal fusions and post‐fusion mutational processes contribute to the evolution of supergenes.
How does religion influence an emerging nationalism? Evidence from the Kurdish context in Turkey
Authors: Caglayan Muttalip
Published: October 2024

Based on qualitative interviews with 66 Sunni Muslim Kurdish elites, this study reveals that Kurdish Islamic circles in Turkey are not monolithic, homogeneous or fixed. Some willingly or unwillingly maintain their Islamic identity as a primary reference point for self‐consciousness, motivation for collective action and political aspirations, often at the expense of ethnopolitical mobilization. Others combine Kurdish national claims with an Islamic orientation, pursuing a path of coexistence between the secular and the religious in the expedition towards nationhood. In the competitive interplay between religion and nationalism, Islam acts as a restraining force on the rise of national sentiment among Muslim Kurds. In the symbiotic interplay, Islam no longer serves as an obstacle to delay Kurdish mobilization but rather accommodates secular norms and values in favour of welcoming national zeals.
Effect of BMI on Caries Assessed by Structural Equation Modelling in an Adult Brazilian Population
Authors: dos Santos Moura Maurício , Rup Ariel Goulart , Jardim Juliana Jobim , Haas Alex Nogueira , Rios Fernando Silva , Costa Ricardo dos Santos Araújo , Alves Luana Severo , Celeste Roger Keller , Maltz Marisa
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Compare different behavioural, environmental and socioeconomic factors for caries with transversal data to decompose the direct and indirect effects of body mass index (BMI) in relation to coronal and root caries.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used a representative sample of 1002 individuals aged ≥ 35 years living in Porto Alegre. Questionnaires recorded age, sex, educational level, tooth brushing frequency and access to dental services. Oral examination assessed gingival bleeding and recession, coronal and root caries. Height and weight were collected to calculate the BMI. The structural equation modelling approach was used, and standardised coefficients (SC) to direct, indirect and total effects were calculated.

Results

The prevalence of excessive body weight was 71.17%, of which 40.09% were overweight and 31.07% were obese. The overall prevalence of coronal and root caries was 99.83 and 36.95, respectively. No direct link between BMI and coronal or root caries was observed. For coronal caries, positive SC was found for age (0.56; p < 0.01) and sex (female) (0.14; p < 0.01). For root caries, positive SC was detected for age (0.34; p < 0.01), smoking exposure (0.17; p < 0.01) and gingivitis (0.08; p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Overweight and obese adults should not be regarded at higher risk for dental caries.
“All the horrible emotions have passed, I still remained, and I was safe”: A qualitative study of Lesbian and Gay people's lived experience of completing a full Dialectical Behaviour Therapy programme
Authors: Harding Charlotte , Pratt Daniel , Lea James
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Lesbian and Gay people (LGP) experience higher rates of mental health difficulties, including self‐harm, suicidal behaviours, as well as inequalities in health care, than their heterosexual peers. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence‐based treatment for self‐harm and suicidal behaviours, though there is little research on LGP's experiences of DBT. This research aims to explore LGP's experiences of completing a full DBT programme.

Design

A qualitative design with semi‐structured individual interviews was utilised. The results were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Methods

Six lesbian and two gay adults, aged between 22 and 47 years, living in the United Kingdom took part. All participants had completed a full programme of DBT within the 2 years prior to the interview.

Results

Four superordinate themes emerged from the data: (1) The DBT journey; (2) Connections and Sense of Community during DBT; (3) Sexuality both visible and invisible in DBT and (4) A Gender, Sexuality and Relationship Diverse (GSRD) affirmative future for DBT.

Conclusions

Several clinical implications are suggested to improve DBT for LGP, for example to consider having other LGP within DBT groups, to create a more GSRD‐affirming DBT (changes to the DBT manual, DBT therapists, DBT programme and physical DBT space), to adapt DBT techniques to manage sexuality‐related difficulties and to adopt a GSRD‐centric framework. Overall, DBT appears to be beneficial for LGP.
Modulation of Terpenoid Indole Alkaloid Biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus by Sphingomonas Sp Y503 via the CrMAPKKK1‐CrMAPKK1/CrMAPKK2‐CrMPK3 Signaling Cascade
Authors: Gao Xiaoxiao , Zhu Xiaona , Wang Zhiqin , Liu Xuejing , Guo Rui , Luan Jing , Liu Zhiwen , Yu Fang
Published: October 2024

Catharanthus roseus is a highly relevant model for investigating plant defense mechanisms and the biosynthesis of therapeutically valuable compounds, including terpenoid indole alkaloids (TIAs). It has been demonstrated that beneficial microbial interactions can regulate TIA biosynthesis in C. roseus, highlighting the need to fully comprehend the molecular mechanisms involved to efficiently implement eco‐friendly strategies. This study explores the effects of a novel microbial strain, Y503, identified as Sphingomonas sp., on TIA production and the underlying mechanisms in C. roseus. Through bioinformatics analysis, we have identified 17 MAPKKKs, 7 MAPKKs, and 13 MAPKs within the C. roseus genome. Further investigation has verified the presence of the MAPK module (CrMAPKKK1‐CrMAPKK1/CrMAPKK2‐CrMPK3) mediating Y503 in regulating TIA biosynthesis in C. roseus. This study provides foundational information for strengthening the plant defense system in C. roseus through advantageous microbial interactions, which could contribute to the sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants such as C. roseus.
UVA Irradiation Promotes Melanoma Cell Proliferation Mediated by OPN3 Independently of ROS Production
Authors: Zhang Yulei , Zeng Wen , Zhang Wei , Wang Yu , Jin Shuqi , Liu Ting , Luo Huanhuan , Lu Hongguang
Published: October 2024

UVA radiation, a primary risk factor in melanoma progression, partly acts through the mediation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The role of ROS in driving cutaneous melanoma toward an invasive phenotype and whether it occurs through opsins (OPNs), which are photosensitive G protein‐coupled receptors, is not fully understood. This study focuses on the impact of UVA radiation on melanoma cell proliferation, with a special emphasis on OPN3. Investigating the biphasic response to various UVA doses (0.75–9 J/cm2) in A375 and MV3 cell lines, and using EdU and CCK‐8 assays, we observed dose‐dependent changes in cell proliferation. Interestingly, UVA irradiation at these doses of 0.75, 1.5 and 3 J/cm2 did not significantly induce ROS production. Our study further delves into the role of OPN3, a photosensitive receptor, in melanoma progression. Following UVA exposure, an increase in OPN3 expression was observed in melanoma cells lines A375 and MV3, indicating its role as a UVA‐sensitive sensor and its influence on cell proliferation. Additionally, UVA‐induced calcium flux in two melanoma cells lines pointed to a calcium‐dependent G protein‐coupled pathway in melanoma proliferation, mediated by OPN3 and not reliant on ROS. This research sheds light on the mechanism of UVA‐induced melanoma progression, underscoring OPN3 as a pivotal regulator and advancing our understanding of UVA's interaction with opsins in melanoma progression.
Metabolite analysis of peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) branches in response to freezing stress
Authors: Li Y. , Wang Y. , Wang Z. , Liu G. , Chang R. , Chen H. , Li J. , Tian Q.
Published: October 2024

Cold resistance in fruit trees has a direct impact on food production and scientific studies. ‘Donghe No.1’ is an excellent cold‐tolerant peach variety. Metabolomic changes under freezing stress were examined to understand the mechanisms of cold adaptation.

The UPLC–MS/MS system was used to identify differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) in branches of ‘Donghe No.1’ under freezing stress for 12 h at −5°C, −20°C, −25°C, or −30°C.

In total, 1096 metabolites and 196 DEMs were obtained at −5°C vs −20°C, −25°C, and − 30°C, while 179 DEMs and eight shared DEMs obtained at −5°C vs −20°C, −20°C vs −25°C, and −25°C vs −30°C. KEGG enrichment identified 196 DEMs associated with amino acid metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, alpha‐linolenic acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis under freezing stress.

A metabolic network in 1‐year‐old peach branches under freezing stress is proposed. Moreover, these results enhance understanding of metabolite responses and mechanisms to freezing stress in peach and will help in future breeding of freezing‐tolerant varieties and investigating tolerance mechanisms.
Mutation of the K+ transporter SlHAK5 of tomato alters pistil morphology, ionome, metabolome and transcriptome in flowers
Authors: Amo Jesús , Jiménez‐Estévez Elisa , Martínez‐Martínez Almudena , Yáñez Adrián , Martínez Vicente , Nieves‐Cordones Manuel , Rubio Francisco
Published: October 2024

K+ accumulation in plant tissues is a crucial factor for plant growth and development. The tomato high‐affinity K+ transporter SlHAK5 is essential for root K+ acquisition from low external concentrations. It is also involved in K+ accumulation in pollen and plant fertility as slhak5 KO plants show a low rate of pollen germination, impaired pollen tube growth and parthenocarpic fruits. Here, we present a thorough analysis of slhak5 flowers, which showed relevant defects at the anatomic, ionomic, metabolomic and transcriptomic levels. First, slhak5 flowers exhibited shorter styles and enlarged ovaries that, together with a low number of seeds in fruits from slhak5 X WT crosses, indicated an effect of the slhak5 mutation on female fertility. Second, a lower accumulation of Ca2+, as well as of several metabolites such as amino acids, citric acid and sugars, was observed in mutant flowers, whereas indole‐3‐acetic acid content was increased when compared to the wild‐type. Third, RNAseq conducted on pistils and stamens of wild‐type and slhak5 plants revealed that transport and signalling pathways are significantly enriched in the gene expression analyses of stamens. Thus, it can be concluded that a functional SlHAK5 transporter is required to maintain appropriate Ca2+, metabolite and gene expression levels in flowers, and its absence leads to important reductions in both male and female fertility.
The Political Influence of Proxy Advisors in Campaigns for Ethical Investment: Guiding the Invisible Hand
Authors: Elbra Ainsley , O'Brien Erin , Boersma Martijn
Published: October 2024

Large, listed companies are under increasing pressure to respond to critical issues such as climate change, modern slavery, and the protection of First Nations' heritage. Much of this pressure is exerted by civil society actors through corporate governance mechanisms, including leveraging shareholder rights to lobby firms. At the heart of this process sit largely understudied actors, proxy advisors, who advise large institutional investors on whether to support civil society's claim‐making on companies. The proxy advising industry is an influential duopoly that advises almost all institutional investors globally. This article advances our understanding of how norms are formed to become established market practices. It maps the relational power structures that govern ethical investment and reveals the capacity of proxy advisors to contribute to the cascading of ethical investment norms. In doing so, we argue that markets are not solely guided by exogenous forces but are reflective of the web of social relations between actors. We conclude that despite historically being seen as neutral experts in their role in advising institutional investors, proxy advisors should be viewed as political actors with significant influence over the outcome of social movement campaigns.
Measuring many mindsets: A systematic review of growth mindset domains, and discussion of domain relationships, with implications for growth mindset interventions
Authors: Kyler E. Nathan , Moscicki Michele K.
Published: October 2024

Research into growth mindset, the belief that attributes are malleable, has increased dramatically in the last 30 years, leading to an explosion in the number of mindset domains studied. Given this plethora of mindset domains, there is comparatively little work investigating mindset domain relationships. Further, with expanding interest in growth mindset has come an increase in mindset interventions aimed at increasing growth mindset beliefs, with mixed results. The mindset domain used in intervention messaging is an understudied potential moderator of intervention efficacy, as few domains have been used in interventions, despite the number of domains studied. In this article we raise three questions: (1) How many mindset domains have been studied and what are those domains?; (2) How are beliefs in different mindset domains related to one another?; and (3) How can we use information about existing mindset domains and their relationships to improve mindset intervention efficacy? To address question one, we systematically reviewed the mindset literature between 1995 and 2022 to document studied mindset domains. We then discuss heterogeneity in mindset domain relationship research and suggest how our review can be used to address gaps in this field. Lastly, we describe heterogeneity in mindset intervention efficacy and suggest how to apply our review of mindset domains to examine the impact of the domain used in intervention messaging on efficacy. We aim to stimulate research into understanding mindset domain relationships and how this insight may be applied to mindset interventions to improve people's lives through effectively enhancing their growth mindset beliefs.
Identifying the gene responsible for non‐photochemical quenching reversal in Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Ware Maxwell A. , Paton Andrew J. , Bai Yu , Kassaw Tessema , Lohr Martin , Peers Graham
Published: October 2024

Algae such as diatoms and haptophytes have distinct photosynthetic pigments from plants, including a novel set of carotenoids. This includes a primary xanthophyll cycle comprised of diadinoxanthin and its de‐epoxidation product diatoxanthin that enables the switch between light harvesting and non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ)‐mediated dissipation of light energy. The enzyme responsible for the reversal of this cycle was previously unknown. Here, we identified zeaxanthin epoxidase 3 (ZEP3) from Phaeodactylum tricornutum as the candidate diatoxanthin epoxidase. Knocking out the ZEP3 gene caused a loss of rapidly reversible NPQ following saturating light exposure. This correlated with the maintenance of high concentrations of diatoxanthin during recovery in low light. Xanthophyll cycling and NPQ relaxation were restored via complementation of the wild‐type ZEP3 gene. The zep3 knockout strains showed reduced photosynthetic rates at higher light fluxes and reduced specific growth rate in variable light regimes, likely due to the mutant strains becoming locked in a light energy dissipation state. We were able to toggle the level of NPQ capacity in a time and dose dependent manner by placing the ZEP3 gene under the control of a β‐estradiol inducible promoter. Identification of this gene provides a deeper understanding of the diversification of photosynthetic control in algae compared to plants and suggests a potential target to improve the productivity of industrial‐scale cultures.
Outcome of 21 dogs treated for the portocaval subtype of extrahepatic portosystemic shunts
Authors: Swieton Natalie , Weisse Chick , Zwingenberger Allison L. , Vilaplana Grosso Frederico R. , Carroll Kenneth A. , Scharf Valery F. , Asano Kazushi , Wallace Mandy L. , Arai Shiori , Lipscomb Victoria J. , Amato Nicole S. , Davidson Jacqueline R. , Aly Ali M.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess outcomes of dogs with side‐to‐side portocaval extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (PC‐EHPSS) and poor portal perfusion to the liver treated with medical management alone (MM) or surgical attenuation (SA).

Study design

Multi‐institutional retrospective study.

Animals

A total of 21 dogs with PC‐EHPSS (14/21 MM and 7/21 SA).

Methods

Medical records were reviewed, and data was collected on dogs <12 kg with PC‐EHPSS treated with MM or SA between June 2008 to June 2021. Signalment, clinical signs, postoperative complications, bloodwork values, long‐term clinical outcome, survival, and owner reported quality of life were recorded.

Results

Of 21 dogs included, 10 were mixed breeds and 14 were females. Median age at time of presenting clinical signs was 163 days. At final follow‐up examination (median 1119 days), all SA and 6/14 MM dogs were alive, with a median survival time of 2138 days following treatment onset. In surviving MM dogs, outcome was fair in 3/6 and poor in 3/6. In SA dogs with long‐term follow‐up, outcome was fair in 5/6, and poor in 1/6. A greater proportion of SA dogs had improved bloodwork parameter values at final follow‐up examination, and the mean relative change in final bloodwork values was higher when compared to MM dogs.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that SA has improved clinical outcomes to MM for PC‐EHPSS; however, SA clinical outcomes appear worse than those previously reported for other EHPSS.

Clinical significance

This information may have implications for expected outcomes in other EHPSS subtypes associated with severely diminished portal perfusion.
Eisenstein cocycles in motivic cohomology
Authors: Sharifi Romyar , Venkatesh Akshay
Published: October 2024

Several authors have studied homomorphisms from first homology groups of modular curves to $K_2(X)$, with $X$ either a cyclotomic ring or a modular curve. These maps send Manin symbols in the homology groups to Steinberg symbols of cyclotomic or Siegel units. We give a new construction of these maps and a direct proof of their Hecke equivariance, analogous to the construction of Siegel units using the universal elliptic curve. Our main tool is a $1$-cocycle from $\mathrm {GL}_2(\mathbb {Z})$ to the second $K$-group of the function field of a suitable group scheme over $X$, from which the maps of interest arise by specialization.
Inhibition of Notch enhances efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Shen Qiang , Murakami Kiichi , Sotov Valentin , Butler Marcus , Ohashi Pamela S. , Reedijk Michael
Published: October 2024

Aberrant Notch, which is a defining feature of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, regulates intercellular communication in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). This includes tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) recruitment through Notch-dependent cytokine secretion, contributing to an immunosuppressive TIME. Despite the low response rate of TNBC to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), here, we report that inhibition of Notch-driven cytokine-mediated programs reduces TAMs and induces responsiveness to sequentially delivered ICB. This is characterized by the emergence of GrB
+
cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in the primary tumor. A more impressive effect of sequential treatment is observed in the lung where TAM depletion and increased CTLs are accompanied by near-complete abolition of metastases. This is due to (i) therapeutic reduction in Notch-dependent, prometastatic circulating factors released by the primary tumor, and (ii) elevated PD ligand 1 (PD-L1) in lung metastases, rendering them profoundly sensitive to ICB. These findings highlight the potential of combination cytokine inhibition and ICB as an immunotherapeutic strategy in TNBC.
A genetically encoded actuator boosts L-type calcium channel function in diverse physiological settings
Authors: del Rivero Morfin Pedro J. , Chavez Diego Scala , Jayaraman Srinidhi , Yang Lin , Geisler Stefanie M. , Kochiss Audrey L. , Tuluc Petronel , Colecraft Henry M. , Marx Steven O. , Liu X. Shawn , Rajadhyaksha Anjali M. , Ben-Johny Manu
Published: October 2024

L-type Ca
2+
channels (Ca
V
1.2/1.3) convey influx of calcium ions that orchestrate a bevy of biological responses including muscle contraction, neuronal function, and gene transcription. Deficits in Ca
V
1 function play a vital role in cardiac and neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we develop a genetically encoded enhancer of Ca
V
1.2/1.3 channels (GeeC
L
) to manipulate Ca
2+
entry in distinct physiological settings. We functionalized a nanobody that targets the Ca
V
complex by attaching a minimal effector domain from an endogenous Ca
V
modulator—leucine-rich repeat containing protein 10 (Lrrc10). In cardiomyocytes, GeeC
L
selectively increased L-type current amplitude. In neurons in vitro and in vivo, GeeC
L
augmented excitation-transcription (E-T) coupling. In all, GeeC
L
represents a powerful strategy to boost Ca
V
1.2/1.3 function and lays the groundwork to illuminate insights on neuronal and cardiac physiology and disease.
Ex vivo modeling of precision immuno-oncology responses in lung cancer
Authors: Alsaed Bassel , Smolander Johannes , Laitinen Hanna , Lin Linh , Bobik Nina , Lahtinen Lilja , Räsänen Mikko , Jansouz Shadi , Peltonen Karita , Jokinen Emmi , Klievink Jay , Ganesh Keerthana , Ainola Mari , Sutinen Eva , Rönty Mikko , Narvi Elli , Thotakura Anil , Saharinen Pipsa , Mustjoki Satu , Ilonen Ilkka , Haikala Heidi M.
Published: October 2024

Despite immunotherapy’s promise in cancer treatment, patient responses vary substantially because of the individual nature of the immune system and the lack of reliable biomarkers. To address this issue, we developed a precision ex vivo platform that integrates patient-specific tumor and immune cells to study the mechanisms of antitumor immune response, predict immunotherapy outcomes, and identify effective treatments. This platform revealed unique single-cell immune response mechanisms and sensitivities to standard-of-care immunotherapies. Furthermore, we were able to identify a synergistic combination of anti–programmed cell death protein 1 (anti–PD-1) together with a Casitas B lineage lymphoma-b inhibitor that overcame anti–PD-1 resistance in selected patient samples. Activation of the interferon-γ–stimulated cytokines predicted combination efficacy, while immunosuppressive cytokines were associated with poor response. Our findings underscore the platform’s potential in tailoring immunotherapies and advancing drug development, offering avenues for personalized cancer treatment.
On the remarkable resistance to oxidation by the Bi
18
−
cluster
Authors: Ma Jun , Chen Teng-Teng , Li Honglin , Bumüller Dennis , Weigend Florian , Jian Tian , Kappes Manfred M. , Schooss Detlef , Li Wan-Lu , Xing Xiao-Peng , Wang Lai-Sheng
Published: October 2024

The reactivity of Bi

n

−
clusters (
n
= 2 to 30) with O
2
is found to display even-odd alternations. The open-shell even-sized Bi

n

−
clusters are more reactive than the closed-shell odd-sized clusters, except Bi
18
−
, which exhibits no observable reactivity toward O
2
. We have investigated the structure and bonding of Bi
18
−
to understand its remarkable resistance to oxidation. We find that the most stable structure of Bi
18
−
consists of two Bi
8
cages linked by a Bi
2
dimer, where each atom is bonded to three neighboring atoms. Chemical bonding analyses reveal that each Bi uses its three 6
p
electrons to form three covalent bonds with its neighbors, resulting in a Bi
18
−
cluster without any dangling bonds. We find that the robust Bi
18
framework along with the totally delocalized unpaired electron is responsible for the surprising inertness of Bi
18
−
toward O
2
. The Bi
18
framework is similar to that in Hittorf’s phosphorus, suggesting the possibility to create bismuth nanoclusters with interesting structures and properties.