bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormone replacement therapy and periodontitis progression in postmenopausal women: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Man Ying , Zhang Cui , Cheng Cheng , Yan Laiqi , Zong Min , Niu Feifei
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the responses of periodontal environment to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in postmenopausal women with or without periodontitis.

Background

HRT is a common and effective strategy for controlling menopausal symptoms, while the changes of periodontal environment under it, particularly in postmenopausal women with periodontitis, remain unclear.

Methods

As a prospective cohort study, a total of 97 postmenopausal women receiving HRT were screened, including 47 with and 50 without periodontitis. Correspondingly, 97 women did not receiving HRT were screened as controls during the same period. The full‐mouth sulcus bleeding index (SBI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured using periodontal probes. The levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in the gingival crevicular fluid were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. In addition, cone beam computed tomography was performed to measure the alveolar bone height (ABH) and bone mineral density (BMD).

Results

In postmenopausal women without periodontitis, no significantly changes on periodontal parameters were observed after HRT. In women with stage II periodontitis, SBI, BOP, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were significant decreased after one year and two years of HRT. Compared to the controls, women with stage II periodontitis who underwent HRT had significantly lower CAL and ABH and higher BMD in the second year. The incidence of at least one site with CAL increase ≥1 mm between baseline and 2 years was significantly lower in the HRT group than in the control group in women with stage II periodontitis. In addition, HRT was significantly associated with a decrease in SBI, BOP, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in the first year and with a decrease in CAL, SBI, BOP, IL‐6, and ABH and an increase in BMD in the second year.

Conclusions

In postmenopausal women with stage II periodontitis, HRT is associated with the alleviation of inflammation within two years and the remission of alveolar bone loss in the second year. HRT appears to decrease the incidence of CAL increase ≥1 mm within 2 years in women with periodontitis by inhibiting inflammation and alveolar bone loss.
Bridging the innovation gap: Why organizational climate matters for leveraging innovation from supply networks
Authors: Son Byung‐Gak , Ries Jörg M. , Subramanian Nachiappan , Kim Seongtae
Published: March 2024

Recent studies have provided empirical evidence that innovation performance is related to the way a firm is embedded in its supply network, specifically the centrality of its network position, but it remains unclear why some firms can use inputs from suppliers better than others, despite having comparable structural characteristics in their supply networks. Drawing on theories of social networks and organizational climate, this study examines the role of buying firms' organizational climate for innovation. It uses several structured and unstructured datasets for S&P 500 firms and applies count regression models to test hypotheses. Supply network data from FactSet were analyzed to determine the degree centrality of a buying firm. Computer‐aided content analysis was used to capture the organizational climate of buying firms based on online employee reviews collected from Glassdoor. The results suggest a positive relationship between the degree centrality and the innovation performance of buying firms. Moreover, certain facets of the organizational climate related to learning, including rewards and career progress, as well as work pressure management, affect the link between the degree centrality of a buying firm and its innovation performance. In conclusion, this study enhances the understanding of the connection between supply networks and innovation. It highlights the crucial role of a firm‐level factor, specifically the influential facets of organizational climate for learning, in determining innovation performance.
Labor market monopsony power in the manufacturing sector of four Sub‐Saharan African countries
Authors: Haque Samiul , Delgado Micheal S.
Published: March 2024

We estimate labor market monopsony power among manufacturing firms in four Sub‐Saharan African countries using a parametric production function approach on panel dataset. Pooled estimate suggests that wages are approximately 38 percent of the marginal revenue product of labor, implying a labor supply elasticity of 0.62. Nonparametric robustness checks indicate these results are robust to concerns over parametric model misspecification. Departure from competitive labor market leads to approximately 50.80 percent higher employer rent, 75.61 percent lower employee rent, and 15.95 percent deadweight loss. Overall, our results are suggestive of monopsonistic labor markets.
The transcription factor bZIP44 cooperates with MYB10 and MYB72 to regulate the response of Arabidopsis thaliana to iron deficiency stress
Authors: Wu Xi , Jia Yafeng , Ma Qian , Wang Tingting , Xu Jiena , Chen Hongli , Wang Mingxia , Song Hui , Cao Shuqing
Published: March 2024

Nicotianamine (NA) plays a crucial role in transporting metal ions, including iron (Fe), in plants; therefore, NICOTIANAMINE SYNTHASE (NAS) genes, which control NA synthesis, are tightly regulated at the transcriptional level. However, the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms of NAS genes require further investigations.

In this study, we determined the role of bZIP44 in mediating plant response to Fe deficiency stress by conducting transformation experiments and assays.

bZIP44 positively regulated the response of Arabidopsis to Fe deficiency stress by interacting with MYB10 and MYB72 to enhance their abilities to bind at NAS2 and NAS4 promoters, thereby increasing NAS2 and NAS4 transcriptional levels and promote NA synthesis.

In summary, the transcription activities of bZIP44, MYB10, and MYB72 were induced in response to Fe deficiency stress, which enhanced the interaction between bZIP44 and MYB10 or MYB72 proteins, synergistically activated the transcriptional activity of NAS2 and NAS4, promoted NA synthesis, and improved Fe transport, thereby enhancing plant tolerance to Fe deficiency stress.
Mucoadhesive delivery systems for oral candidiasis treatment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sugio Carolina Yoshi Campos , Garcia Amanda Aparecida Maia Neves , Kitamoto Klaryssa Akemi de Araujo , Santiago Júnior Joel Ferreira , Soares Simone , Porto Vinicius Carvalho , Urban Vanessa Migliorini , Ferrari Priscileila Colerato , Fernandes Maria Helena , Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical and mycological effectiveness of mucoadhesives as vehicles for drugs or natural products in the treatment of oral candidiasis.

Materials and methods

The search for articles was carried out in the Medline/PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and SciELO databases before August 2023. We selected the studies, extracted the data, evaluated the study quality, graded the evidence, performed the risk of bias, and carried out meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 389 potentially relevant articles were identified, and 11 studies (1869 participants) met the inclusion criteria of the systematic review. The overall risk of bias was considered low. The most common presentation of mucoadhesives was tablets, with miconazole being the most frequently drug used in the delivery system. Mucoadhesives demonstrated comparable efficacy with topical or systemic antifungal agents, with no significant differences between treatments in terms of clinical (RR = 0.907; 95CI = 0.3–1.297; p = 0.591; I2 = 64.648) or mycological (RR = 0.95; 95CI = 0.667–1.360; p = 0.789; I2 = 73.271) efficacy.

Conclusions

Mucoadhesives may be a suitable alternative to conventional treatments, with the advantage of reducing the frequency of application by up to 5 times and the daily dosage by up to 20 times.
Halotolerant Pseudomonas koreensisS4T10 mitigate salt and drought stress in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Kalleku Justine Nathanael , Ihsan Samsoor , Al‐Azzawi Tiba Nazar Ibrahim , Khan Murtaza , Hussain Adil , Chebitok Felistus , Das Ashim Kumar , Moon Yong‐Sun , Mun Bong‐Gyu , Lee In‐Jung , Ali Sajid , Yun Byung‐Wook
Published: March 2024

Salt and drought are documented among the most detrimental and persistent abiotic stresses for crop production. Here, we investigated the impact of Pseudomonas koreensis strain S4T10 on plant performance under salt and drought stress. Arabidopsis thaliana Col‐0 wild type and atnced3 mutant plants were inoculated with P. koreensis or tap water and exposed to NaCl (100 mM) for five days and drought stress by withholding water for seven days. P. koreensis significantly enhanced plant biomass and photosynthetic pigments under salt and drought stress conditions. Moreover, P. koreensis activated the antioxidant defence by modulating glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities to scavenge the reactive oxygen species produced due to the stress. In addition, the application of P. koreensis upregulated the expression of genes associated with antioxidant responses, such as AtCAT1, AtCAT3, and AtSOD. Similarly, genes linked to salt stress, such as AtSOS1, AtSOS2, AtSOS3, AtNHX1, and AtHKT1, were also upregulated, affirming the positive role of P. koreensis S4T10 in streamlining the cellular influx and efflux transport systems during salt stress. Likewise, the PGPB inoculation was observed to regulate the expression of drought‐responsive genes AtDREB2A, AtDREB2B, and ABA‐responsive genes AtAO3, AtABA3 indicating that S4T10 enhanced drought tolerance via modulation of the ABA pathway. The results of this study affirm that P. koreensis S4T10 could be further developed as a biofertilizer to mitigate salt and drought stress at the same time.
What can nurses learn from patient's needs and wishes when developing an evidence‐based quality improvement learning culture? A qualitative study
Authors: Giesen Jeltje , Timmerman Ilse , Bakker‐Jacobs Annick , Berings Marjolein , Huisman‐de Waal Getty , Van Vught Anneke , Vermeulen Hester
Published: March 2024

Background

Patient participation is fundamental in nursing care and has yielded benefits for patient outcomes. However, despite their compassionate care approach, nurses do not always incorporate patients' needs and wish into evidence‐based practice, quality improvement or learning activities. Therefore, a shift to continuous quality improvement based on evidence‐based practice is necessary to enhance the quality of care. The patient's opinion is an essential part of this process. To establish a more sustainable learning culture for evidence‐based quality improvement, it is crucial that nurses learn alongside their patients. However, to promote this, nurses require a deeper understanding of patients' care preferences.

Objective

To explore patients' needs and wishes towards being involved in care processes that nurses can use in developing an evidence‐based quality improvement learning culture.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted in two hospital departments and one community care team. In total, 18 patients were purposefully selected for individual semi‐structured interviews with an average of 15 min. A framework analysis based on the fundamental of care framework was utilised to analyse the data deductively. In addition, inductive codes were added to patients' experiences beyond the framework. For reporting this study, the SRQR guideline was used.

Results

Participants needed a compassionate nurse who established and sustained a trusting relationship. They wanted nurses to be present and actively involved during the care delivery. Shared decision‐making improved when nurses offered fair, clear and tailored information. Mistrust or a disrupted nurse–patient relationship was found to be time‐consuming and challenging to restore.

Conclusions

Results confirmed the importance of a durable nurse–patient relationship and showed the consequences of nurses' communication on shared decision‐making. Insights into patients' care preferences are essential to stimulate the development of an evidence‐based quality improvement learning culture within nursing teams and for successful implementation processes.
Long‐ and short‐term frequent attenders' perceptions of patient‐centredness in Finnish primary healthcare: A cross‐sectional survey and the equivalence of the factor structure of the 36‐item patient‐centred primary care instrument
Authors: Moona Huhtakangas , Mimmi Tolvanen , Helvi Kyngäs , Outi Kanste
Published: March 2024

Aim

The study aimed to compare long‐ and short‐term frequent attenders' (FAs) perceptions of patient‐centredness and to assess the equivalence of the factor structure of patient‐centred primary care (PCPC) instrument for long‐ and short‐term FAs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of long‐term (n = 234) and short‐term (n = 261) FAs within the primary healthcare of one city in Finland. The data collected in January–July 2020 via ‘the 36‐item PCPC instrument’ were analysed using Pearson's chi‐squared test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, Cronbach's alpha, and multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA).

Results

Long‐term FAs had worse perceptions of patient‐centredness than short‐term FAs across all subscales: patients’ preferences, physical comfort, coordination of care, continuity and transition, emotional support, access to care, information and education, and family and friends. The MGCFA indicated a good fit for the predicted eight‐factor model.

Conclusions

Long‐term FAs’ care needs are currently not being met, indicating the need for considering how the way healthcare services are arranged and care is provided affects prolonged and high care needs. Various dimensions of patient‐centredness need to be addressed when developing not only FAs’ care but also wider service paths. A distinction should be made between long‐ and short‐term frequent attendance when identifying and addressing FAs’ service needs.
A novel HLA‐C*01 variant, HLA‐C*01:02:01:70, identified in a healthy individual from Greece
Authors: Kouniaki Diamanto , Tsirogianni Alexandra
Published: March 2024

HLA‐C*01:02:01:70 differs from the HLA‐C*01:02:01:01 allele by one nucleotide substitution in the intron 4.
Presentation, management, and outcomes of norovirus in adult and pediatric solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients: A multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: Callegari Michelle , Danziger‐Isakov Lara A. , Rose Anne , Kaul Daniel , Shaffer Kelly , Chong Pearlie P. , Florescu Diana , German Kaci , Avery Robin , Nguyen M. Hong , Wildfeuer Brett , Michaels Marian G. , Green Michael , Guo Kexin , Zhao Lihui , Daud Amna , Ison Michael G.
Published: March 2024

Background

Norovirus (NoV) can cause chronic relapsing and remitting diarrhea in immunocompromised patients.  Few multicenter studies have described the clinical course, outcomes, and complications of chronic NoV in transplant recipients.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study of adult and pediatric SOT and HSCT recipients diagnosed with NoV between November 1, 2017, and February 28, 2021. Data were obtained from electronic medical records (EMR) and entered into a central REDCap database. Descriptive statistics were calculated.

Results

A total of 280 NoV+ patients were identified across eight sites. The majority were adults (74.1%) and SOT recipients (91.4%). Initial diagnosis of NoV occurred a median of 36 months post‐Tx (IQR [15.0, 90.0]). Most NoV cases had >3 diarrheal episodes daily (66.0%), nausea and vomiting (60.1%). Duration of diarrhea varied greatly (median = 10 days, mean = 85.9 days, range (1, 2100)). 71.3% were hospitalized. Adjustment of immunosuppression, including reduction and discontinuation of mToR inhibitor, CNI, and/or MMF, was the most common management intervention for NoV. Other therapies resulted only in temporary improvement. Four patients died within 30 days and three others died by 180 days postdiagnosis. Clinically significant renal dysfunction was observed in 12.5% by 30 days and 21.4% by 180 days post‐NoV diagnosis.

Conclusion

In HSCT and SOT patients, NoV frequently resulted in severe symptoms, prolonged diarrhea (30% persistent with diarrhea for >30 days), and clinically significant renal dysfunction (up to 21% of patients). Utilized therapies did not reliably result in the resolution of infection demonstrating the need for more effective treatment.

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First investigation into the genetic control of meiosis in sugarcane
Authors: Reis Soares Nina , Costa Zirlane Portugal , Marques João Paulo Rodrigues , Garsmeur Olivier , Sampaio Carneiro Monalisa , Monteiro Vitorello Cláudia Barros , D'Hont Angélique , Vieira Maria Lucia Carneiro
Published: March 2024

The sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) genome is one of the most complex of all. Modern varieties are highly polyploid and aneuploid as a result of hybridization between Saccharum officinarum and S. spontaneum. Little research has been done on meiotic control in polyploid species, with the exception of the wheat Ph1 locus harboring the ZIP4 gene (TaZIP4‐B2) which promotes pairing between homologous chromosomes while suppressing crossover between homeologs. In sugarcane, despite its interspecific origin, bivalent association is favored, and multivalents, if any, are resolved at the end of prophase I. Thus, our aim herein was to investigate the purported genetic control of meiosis in the parental species and in sugarcane itself. We investigated the ZIP4 gene and immunolocalized meiotic proteins, namely synaptonemal complex proteins Zyp1 and Asy1. The sugarcane ZIP4 gene is located on chromosome 2 and expressed more abundantly in flowers, a similar profile to that found for TaZIP4‐B2. ZIP4 expression is higher in S. spontaneum a neoautopolyploid, with lower expression in S. officinarum, a stable octoploid species. The sugarcane Zip4 protein contains a TPR domain, essential for scaffolding. Its 3D structure was also predicted, and it was found to be very similar to that of TaZIP4‐B2, reflecting their functional relatedness. Immunolocalization of the Asy1 and Zyp1 proteins revealed that S. officinarum completes synapsis. However, in S. spontaneum and SP80‐3280 (a modern variety), no nuclei with complete synapsis were observed. Importantly, our results have implications for sugarcane cytogenetics, genetic mapping, and genomics.
Prediction of the antigenic regions in eight RhD variants identified by computational biology
Authors: Trueba‐Gómez Rocio , Rosenfeld‐Mann Fany , Estrada‐Juárez Higinio
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives

Changes in RHD generate variations in protein structure that lead to antigenic variants. The classical model divides them into quantitative (weak and Del) and qualitative (partial D). There are two types of protein antigens: linear and conformational. Computational biology analyses the theoretical assembly of tertiary protein structures and allows us to identify the ‘topological’ differences between isoforms. Our aim was to determine the theoretical antigenic differences between weak RhD variants compared with normal RhD based on structural analysis using bioinformatic techniques.

Materials and Methods

We analysed the variations in secondary structures and hydrophobicity of RHD*01, RHD*01W.1, W2, W3, RHD*09.03.01, RHD*09.04, RHD*11, RHD*15 and RHD*21. We then modelled the tertiary structure and calculated their probable antigenic regions, intra‐protein interactions, displacement and membrane width and compared them with Rhce.

Results

The 10 proteins are similar in their secondary structure and hydrophobicity, with the main differences observed in the exofacial coils. We identified six potential antigenic regions: one that is unique to RhD (R3), one that is common to all D (R6), three that are highly variable among RhD isoforms (R1, R2 and R4), one that they share with Rhce (R5) and two that are unique to Rhce (Ra and Rbc).

Conclusion

The alloimmunization capacity of these subjects could be explained by the variability of the antigen pattern, which is not necessarily recognized or recognized with lower intensity by the commercially available antibodies, and not because they have a lower protein concentration in the membrane.
Barriers toward xenotransplantation in Arab World
Authors: Ghazi Maya , Saleh Aalaa , Abdallah Malak , El Masri Diala , El Masri Jad , El Ayoubi Lemir Majed , Hawi Jihad , Jurjus Abdo
Published: March 2024

Organ transplant is a crucial therapeutic strategy offering a life‐saving and transformative medical intervention. It provides an opportunity to improve their quality of life and increase their lifespan. The shortage of organs remains a critical global challenge, leading to a prolonged waiting times for organ receivers, which contributes to an increase in morbidity and mortality rates. Hence, xenotransplantation offered a promising solution to the global shortage of organs through the use of animal organs, leading to an increase in donor availability, reducing waiting times, minimizing organ trafficking, improving genetic engineering advancements, and driving scientific innovation. Even though xenotransplantation has many benefits in the clinical setting, it has many barriers that are hindering its achievements and constraining its occurrence. Some barriers to xenotransplant are general, such as the immunological barrier, while others are specific to certain regions due to local causes. The Arab region exhibits disparities in clinical settings compared to the global context, marked by the huge economic crisis and a shortage of trained healthcare professionals. Considering the huge resources and advancements needed in the field of xenotransplantation, this review aims to explore the specific barriers toward xenotransplantation in the Arab countries, highlighting the challenges to overcome these barriers.
Elliptic Rigid Inclusion in Soft Materials of Harmonic Type
Authors: Miao Kui , Dai Ming , Gao Cun-Fa
Published: March 2024

We investigate finite plane deformations of an elliptic rigid inclusion embedded in a soft matrix that is made of a particular class of harmonic-type hyperelastic materials. The inclusion is assumed to be perfectly bonded to the matrix, which is subjected to a constant remote in-plane loading. Utilizing the Cauchy integral techniques associated with conformal mappings, we derive closed-form solutions for the full-field deformation, Piola stress, and Cauchy stress in the entire matrix. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the current solutions in comparison with those established from linear elasticity theory. We find that in terms of the Cauchy stress around the inclusion, the maximum normal stress component always appears at the endpoints of the major axis of the inclusion, irrespective of the magnitude of the remote loading, while the maximum hoop stress component occurs not exactly at the above-mentioned endpoints when the remote loading exceeds a certain value. In particular, we identify an exact explicit formula for determining the relative rotation of the inclusion during deformation induced by a remote uniaxial loading of arbitrarily given magnitude and direction.
Updated antimicrobial dosing recommendations for obese patients
Authors: Castro-Balado Ana , Varela-Rey Iria , Mejuto Beatriz , Mondelo-García Cristina , Zarra-Ferro Irene , Rodríguez-Jato Teresa , Fernández-Ferreiro Anxo
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of obesity has increased considerably in the last few decades. Pathophysiological changes in obese patients lead to pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) alterations that can condition the correct exposure to antimicrobials if standard dosages are used. Inadequate dosing in obese patients can lead to toxicity or therapeutic failure. In recent years, additional antimicrobial PK/PD data, extended infusion strategies, and studies in critically ill patients have made it possible to obtain data to provide a better dosage in obese patients. Despite this, it is usually difficult to find information on drug dosing in this population, which is sometimes contradictory. This is a comprehensive review of the dosing of different types of antimicrobials (antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and antituberculosis drugs) in obese patients, where the literature on PK and possible dosing strategies in obese adults was critically assessed.
Constraining activity and growth substrate of fungal decomposers via assimilation patterns of inorganic carbon and water into lipid biomarkers
Authors: Jabinski Stanislav , d. M. Rangel Wesley , Kopáček Marek , Jílková Veronika , Jansa Jan , Meador Travis B.
Published: March 2024

Fungi are among the few organisms on the planet that can metabolize recalcitrant carbon (C) but are also known to access recently produced plant photosynthate. Therefore, improved quantification of growth and substrate utilization by different fungal ecotypes will help to define the rates and controls of fungal production, the cycling of soil organic matter, and thus the C storage and CO
2
buffering capacity in soil ecosystems. This pure-culture study of fungal isolates combined a dual stable isotope probing (SIP) approach, together with rapid analysis by tandem pyrolysis-gas chromatography-isotope ratio mass spectrometry to determine the patterns of water-derived hydrogen (H) and inorganic C assimilated into lipid biomarkers of heterotrophic fungi as a function of C substrate. The water H assimilation factor (
α
W
) and the inorganic C assimilation into C
18:2
fatty acid isolated from five fungal species growing on glucose was lower (0.62% ± 0.01% and 4.7% ± 1.6%, respectively) than for species grown on glutamic acid (0.90% ± 0.02% and 7.4% ± 3.7%, respectively). Furthermore, the assimilation ratio (R

IC/
α
W

) for growth on glucose and glutamic acid can distinguish between these two metabolic modes. This dual-SIP assay thus delivers estimates of fungal activity and may help to delineate the predominant substrates that are respired among a matrix of compounds found in natural environments.

IMPORTANCE

Fungal decomposers play important roles in food webs and nutrient cycling because they can feed on both labile and more recalcitrant forms of carbon. This study developed and applied a dual stable isotope assay (
13
C-dissolved inorganic carbon/
2
H) to improve the investigation of fungal activity in the environment. By determining the incorporation patterns of hydrogen and carbon into fungal lipids, this assay delivers estimates of fungal activity and the different metabolic pathways that they employ in ecological and environmental systems.
Characterization of humoral and cellular immunologic responses to an mRNA-based human cytomegalovirus vaccine from a phase 1 trial of healthy adults
Authors: Wu Kai , Hou Yixuan Jacob , Makrinos Dan , Liu Runxia , Zhu Alex , Koch Matthew , Yu Wen-Han , Paila Yamuna D. , Chandramouli Sumana , Panther Lori , Henry Carole , DiPiazza Anthony , Carfi Andrea
Published: March 2024

mRNA-1647 is an investigational mRNA-based vaccine against cytomegalovirus (CMV) that contains sequences encoding the CMV proteins glycoprotein B and pentamer. Humoral and cellular immune responses were evaluated in blood samples collected from healthy CMV-seropositive and CMV-seronegative adults who participated in a phase 1 trial of a three-dose series of mRNA-1647 (NCT03382405). Neutralizing antibody (nAb) titers against fibroblast and epithelial cell infection in sera from CMV-seronegative mRNA-1647 recipients were higher than those in sera from control CMV-seropositive samples and remained elevated up to 12 months after dose 3. nAb responses elicited by mRNA-1647 were comparable across 14 human CMV (HCMV) strains. Frequencies of antigen-specific memory B cells increased in CMV-seropositive and CMV-seronegative participants after each mRNA-1647 dose and remained elevated for up to 6 months after dose 3. mRNA-1647 elicited robust increases in frequencies and polyfunctionality of CD4
+
T helper type 1 and effector CD8
+
T cells in samples from CMV-seronegative and CMV-seropositive participants after stimulation with HCMV-specific peptides. The administration of three doses of mRNA-1647 to healthy adults elicited high nAb titers with wide-breadth, long-lasting memory B cells, and strong polyfunctional T-cell responses. These findings support further clinical development of the mRNA-1647 vaccine against CMV.

IMPORTANCE

Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus that can infect people of all ages, may lead to serious health problems in unborn babies and those with a weakened immune system. Currently, there is no approved vaccine available to prevent CMV infection; however, the investigational messenger RNA (mRNA)–based CMV vaccine, mRNA-1647, is undergoing evaluation in clinical trials. The current analysis examined samples from a phase 1 trial of mRNA-1647 in healthy adults to better understand how the immune system reacts to vaccination. Three doses of mRNA-1647 produced a long-lasting immune response, thus supporting further investigation of the vaccine in the prevention of CMV infection.

CLINICAL TRIALS

Registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (
NCT03382405
).
Draft genome sequence of
Pediococcus acidilactici
3G3 isolated from Philippine fermented pork
Authors: Lara Zachary B. , Amoranto Mia Beatriz C. , Elegado Francisco B. , Dalmacio Leslie Michelle M. , Balolong Marilen Parungao
Published: March 2024

Pediococcus acidilactici
is a well-studied fermentative bacterium reported to have potential probiotic properties. Here, we report the draft genome of
P. acidilactici
3G3 previously isolated from
burong babi
, a Philippine fermented pork dish. The 3G3 draft genome has 1,886,498 bp, a GC content of 42.27%, and a completeness of 99.38%.
Choriocapillaris flow features in children with myopic anisometropia
Authors: Jiang Zhihao , Bo Wu , Yang Zhengfei , Luo Xiaoling , Ni Yao , Zeng Junwen
Published: March 2024

Aims

To examine differences between the eyes in choriocapillaris perfusion and choroidal thickness in children with myopic anisometropia.

Methods

In this observational and prospective study, 46 children with myopic anisometropia were enrolled. Choriocapillaris perfusion parameters, including the percentage of flow voids, the total number of flow voids and the average flow void area were obtained by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). The OCTA image was divided into a 1 mm-diameter central circle (C1) and a 2.5 mm-diameter annulus (without the inner central 1 mm circle, C1-2.5). Both C1 and C1-2.5 are centred on the foveola. The C1-2.5 was divided into nasal (N1-2.5), temporal (T1-2.5), inferior (I1-2.5) and superior (S1-2.5) areas. Differences in these parameters in different regions between eyes were analysed.

Results

There were no significant differences in the percentage of flow voids and the average flow void area between the fellow eyes. The total number of signal voids was significantly higher in the less myopic eyes in C1-2.5 (p=0.032), S1-2.5 (p=0.008) and N1-2.5 (p=0.019). Changes in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length were both correlated with the changes in the total number of flow voids in N1-2.5 (R=−0.431, p=0.03; R=−0.297, p=0.047).

Conclusions

The choroid in the macular region becomes thinner and the total number of flow voids in the nasal macular region decreased with the amplitude of myopia. This suggests that a decrease in total number of flow voids may indicate an early change in myopia.
Fostering relational autonomy in end-of-life care: a procedural approach and three-dimensional decision-making model
Authors: Foo Kar-Fai , Lin Ya-Ping , Lin Cheng-Pei , Chen Yu-Chun
Published: March 2024

Respect for patient autonomy is paramount in resolving ethical tensions in end-of-life care. The concept of relational autonomy has contributed to this debate; however, scholars often use this concept in a fragmented manner. This leads to partial answers on ascertaining patients’ true wishes, meaningfully engaging patients’ significant others, balancing interests among patients and significant others, and determining clinicians’ obligations to change patients’ unconventional convictions to enhance patient autonomy. A satisfactory solution based on relational autonomy must incorporate patients’ competence (apart from decisional capacity), authenticity (their true desires or beliefs) and the involvement level of their significant others. To that end, we argue that John Christman’s procedural approach to relational autonomy provides critical insights, such as the diachronic or socio-historical personhood, sustained critical reflection and his recent explication of the nature of asymmetrical relationships and helpful interlocutors. This study reviews Christman’s account, proposes minor modifications and advocates for an integrated three-dimensional model for medical decision-making. Clarifying the relationship among the three elements promotes an ethical framework with a coherent understanding of relational autonomy. This model not only provides a descriptive and normative framework for end-of-life care practice but also reconsiders the nature of the clinician–patient relationship and its normative implications. We further present a case study to illustrate the merits of our proposed model. Altogether, our proposal will help navigate complex medical decision-making, foster trust and negotiate shared values between patients and their significant others, particularly in end-of-life care.
A coupled-fluid approach to explore bounce and inflationary cosmology with Barrow holographic as the driving dark fluid
Authors: Saha Sanghati , Chattopadhyay Surajit , Güdekli Ertan
Published: March 2024

Assuming that viscous fluid in the form of Barrow holographic dark energy (BHDE) (a particular case of more generalized version of HDE elaborated in Nojiri et al. in Phys Lett B 825:136844, 2022; Symmetry 13(6):928, 2021) and pressure-less dark matter are present across the flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker universe, we find the precise solutions of viscous BHDE models in non-interacting and interacting scenarios for different choices of scale factor. We show the evolution of the EoS parameters in the viscous non-interacting and interacting situations together with the deceleration parameters for observing the transition time frame. Afterwards, we investigate a bounce inflation model using the analytical results of model’s slow-roll parameters, scalar spectral index, and tensor-to-scalar ratio. We investigated an association between BHDE and scalar field models since inflation is typically attributed to the existence of scalar fields. The evolution of the generated potential from the scalar fields are plotted against time. Finally, we investigated the GSL of the thermodynamics.
Gravitational slip parameter and gravitational waves in Einstein–Cartan theory
Authors: Ranjbar Maryam , Akhshabi Siamak , Shadmehri Mohsen
Published: March 2024

We study the evolution of scalar and tensor cosmological perturbations in the framework of the Einstein–Cartan theory of gravity. The value of the gravitational slip parameter which is defined as the ratio of the two scalar potentials in the Newtonian gauge, can be used to determine whether or not the gravity is modified. We calculate the value of slip parameter in the Einstein–Cartan cosmology and show that it falls within the observed range. We also discuss the evolution of the cosmic gravitational waves as another measure of the modification of gravity.
Cycle discrete-time quantum walks on a noisy quantum computer
Authors: Wadhia Vivek , Chancellor Nicholas , Kendon Viv
Published: March 2024

The rapid development of quantum computing has led to increasing interest in quantum algorithms for a variety of different applications. Quantum walks have also experienced a surge in interest due to their potential use in quantum algorithms. Using the qiskit software package, we test how accurately the current generation of quantum computers provided by IBM can simulate a cycle discrete-time quantum walk. Implementing an 8-node, 8-step walk and a simpler 4-node, 4-step discrete-time quantum walk on an IBM quantum device known as , the results for each step of the respective walks are presented. A custom noise model is developed in order to estimate that noise levels in the quantum device would need to be reduced by at least 94% in order to execute a 16-node, 16-step cycle discrete-time quantum walk to a reasonable level of fidelity.

Graphic abstract
New angular momentum coherent states via the nonlinear Bose SU(2) generators and their nonclassical behaviors
Authors: Wu Wei-Feng
Published: March 2024

I theoretically construct a kind of new angular momentum coherent states by virtue of the nonlinear Bose SU(2) generators, and investigate their nonclassicality by analyzing the sub-Poissonian distributions, photon number distributions, entanglement entropy and Wigner phase-space distributions. The results show that the new states always have the sub-Poissonian distributions for all of the photon number sum [Formula: see text] of two modes, the photon number distributions are subjected to the parameter q, and the entanglement always increases quickly and then decreases slowly with increasing [Formula: see text], and the new states for odd q possess more stronger nonclassicality than for even q.
Lump–kink and hybrid solutions of the extended (3+1)-dimensional potential KP equation in fluid mechanics
Authors: Hu Hengchun , Tian Yunman
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the extended (3+1)-dimensional potential KP equation in fluid mechanics is studied through Hirota bilinear method. Many types of hybrid solutions, such as the lump–kink solution, lump-two kink solution and periodic lump solution are obtained by assuming different functions in the bilinear equation. The interaction solution between lump and triangular periodic wave is also derived by combining sine and cosine functions with quadratic functions. Dynamical structures of these exact solutions are depicted by presenting the corresponding three-dimensional, two-dimensional structures and density graphs. These diverse interaction solutions could be helpful for understanding physical phenomena in fluid mechanics.
MICRO-EDD OF INCONEL 800 USING ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: MUKHOPADHYAY P. , BISWAS D. , SARKAR B. R. , DOLOI B. , BHATTACHARYYA B.
Published: March 2024

Micro-electro-discharge drilling ([Formula: see text]EDD) is a type of non-traditional machining process used for drilling micro-holes of desired dimensions with a high aspect ratio. But, there are no such research works that could have explained the desired accurate circular shape of micro-holes. The need for a more advanced hybrid machining process to improve the overall efficiency in terms of mainly desired circular shape and radial overcut is evolved. In this research work, an electromagnetic field force-assisted micro-EDM process has been carried out on Inconel 800 with a copper tool of 450[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m. Experimental results showed that measured metal removal rate and tool wear rate decreased for ascending values of magnetic flux density, peak current and gap voltage, whereas circularity increases linearly with an increase in magnetic flux density and also the effects of magnetic field on circularity of micro-holes on Inconel 800 are more predominant than other parameters.
Multiple Exploitation of a Renewable Resource — Optimal Solution of a Deterministic Singular Control Model
Authors: Jean-Marie Alain , Tidball M.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we consider a singular control optimization problem which generalizes the Gordon–Schaefer model. A population of individuals with endogenous growth is harvested by two independent agents, and their joint profit is maximized. We show that adding a second control to the standard model greatly complicates the standard solution, which is a Most Rapid Approach. We prove that no solution where both controls are singular can exist. Using numerical experiments, we exhibit situations where the optimal steady state corresponds to one of the controls singular, and the other one is equal to one of its specific bounds. In some cases, the optimal path resembles the one-control solution, but with an additional threshold on the population beyond which both controls must be used. However, in other cases, the optimal control has more switching points and is not monotonous. We even exhibit cases where the optimal policy admits two steady states.
Substance P promotes transforming growth factor-β-induced collagen synthesis in human corneal fibroblasts
Authors: Sugioka Koji , Nishida Teruo , Murakami Junko , Itahashi Motoki , Yunoki Mai , Kusaka Shunji
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the role of substance P (SP) in collagen metabolism mediated by human corneal fibroblasts in culture. We found that, although SP alone had no effect on collagen synthesis or degradation by corneal fibroblasts, it promoted the stimulatory effect of transforming growth factor-β on collagen type I synthesis without affecting that of interleukin-1β on the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1.
The role of nanosystems in the delivery of glucose-lowering drugs for the preemption and treatment of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis
Authors: Conroy Luke James , McCann Alyssa , Zhang Nan , de Gaetano Monica
Published: March 2024

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. In recent decades, type-2 diabetes has become increasingly common, particularly in younger individuals. Diabetes leads to many vascular complications, including atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease characterized by lipid-rich plaques within the vasculature. Plaques develop over time, restricting blood flow, and can, therefore, be the underlying cause of major adverse cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. Diabetes and atherosclerosis are intrinsically linked. Diabetes is a metabolic syndrome that accelerates atherosclerosis and increases the risk of developing other comorbidities, such as diabetes-associated atherosclerosis (DAA). Gold standard antidiabetic medications focus on attenuating hyperglycemia. Though recent evidence suggests that glucose-lowering drugs may have broader applications, beyond diabetes management. This review mainly evaluates the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), such as liraglutide and semaglutide in DAA. These drugs mimic gut hormones (incretins), which inhibit glucagon secretion while stimulating insulin secretion, thus improving insulin sensitivity. This facilitates delayed gastric emptying and increased patient satiety; hence, they are also indicated for the treatment of obesity. GLP-1 RAs have significant cardioprotective effects, including decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides levels. Liraglutide and semaglutide have specifically been shown to decrease cardiovascular risk. Liraglutide has displayed a myriad of antiatherosclerotic properties, with the potential to induce plaque regression. This review aims to address how glucose-lowering medications can be applied to treat diseases other than diabetes. We specifically focus on how nanomedicines can be used for the site-specific delivery of antidiabetic medicines for the treatment of diabetes-associated atherosclerosis.
Skeletal muscle fiber type and TMS-induced muscle relaxation in unfatigued and fatigued knee-extensor muscles
Authors: Barbi Chiara , Temesi John , Giuriato Gaia , Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Martignon Camilla , Moro Tatiana , Schena Federico , Venturelli Massimo , Vernillo Gianluca
Published: March 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)-induced muscle relaxation reflects intrinsic muscle contractile properties by interrupting the drive from the central nervous system during voluntary muscle contractions. We showed that fiber type I proportional area influences the TMS-induced muscle relaxation, suggesting that TMS could be used for the noninvasive estimation of muscle relaxation in unfatigued and fatigued human muscles when the feasibility of more direct method to study relaxation properties (i.e., muscle biopsy) is restricted.
Novel Synonymous and Deep Intronic Variants Causing Primary and Secondary Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficiency
Authors: Bruhn Helene , Naess Karin , Ygberg Sofia , Peña-Pérez Lucía , Lesko Nicole , Wibom Rolf , Freyer Christoph , Stranneheim Henrik , Wedell Anna , Wredenberg Anna
Published: March 2024

Pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency (PDCD) is a defect of aerobic carbohydrate metabolism that causes neurological disorders with varying degrees of severity. We report the clinical, biochemical, and molecular findings in patients with primary and secondary PDCD caused by novel atypical genetic variants. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) identified the synonymous variants c.447A>G, p.(Lys149=) and c.570C>T, p.(Cys190=) in pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 subunit alpha 1 (PDHA1), the deep intronic variants c.1023+2267G>A and c.1023+2302A>G in pyruvate dehydrogenase complex component X (PDHX), and c.185+15054G>A in thiamine pyrophosphokinase (TPK1). Analysis by Sanger and RNA sequencing of cDNA from patient blood and/or cultured fibroblasts showed that the synonymous variants in PDHA1 lead to aberrant splicing and skipping of exons 5 and 5-6 in one of the patients and transcripts lacking exon 6 in the other. The deep intronic variants in PDHX and TPK1 lead to insertion of intronic sequence in the corresponding transcripts. The splice defects in PDHA1 were more pronounced in cultured fibroblasts than in blood. Our findings expand the spectrum of pathogenic variants causing PDCD and highlight the importance of atypical variants leading to aberrant splicing. The severity of the splice defects and resulting biochemical dysfunction varied between tissues, stressing the importance of performing biochemical and transcript analysis in affected tissues. The two males with hemizygous synonymous PDHA1 variants have a mild phenotype and higher PDH enzyme activity than expected, which is consistent with aberrant but leaky splicing with a proportion of the transcripts remaining correctly spliced.
Screening for Atrial Fibrillation by Digital Health Technology in Older People in Homecare Settings: A Feasibility Trial
Authors: Sandberg Edvard Liljedahl , Halvorsen Sigrun , Berge Trygve , Grimsmo Jostein , Atar Dan , Grenne Bjørnar Leangen , Jortveit Jarle
Published: March 2024

Aims. Users of homecare services are often excluded from clinical trials due to advanced age, multimorbidity, and frailty. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common and frequently undiagnosed arrhythmia in the elderly and is associated with severe mortality, morbidity, and healthcare costs. Timely identification prevents associated complications through evidence-based treatment. This study is aimed at assessing the feasibility of AF screening using new digital health technology in older people in a homecare setting. Methods. Users of homecare services≥65 years old with at least one additional risk factor for stroke in two Norwegian municipalities were assessed for study participation by nurses. Participants performed a continuous prolonged ECG recording using a patch ECG device (ECG247 Smart Heart Sensor). Results. A total of 144 individuals were assessed for study participation, but only 18 (13%) were included. The main reasons for noninclusion were known AF and/or anticoagulation therapy (25%), severe cognitive impairment (26%), and lack of willingness to participate (36%). The mean age of participants performing the ECG test was 81 (SD±7) years, and 9 (50%) were women. All ECG tests were interpretable; the mean ECG monitoring time was 104 hours (IQR 34-338 hours). AF was detected in one individual (6%). Conclusion. This feasibility study highlights the challenges of enrolling older people receiving homecare services in clinical trials. However, all included participants performed an interpretable and prolonged continuous ECG recording with a digital ECG patch device. This trial is registered with NCT04700865.