bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A holistic view of potato genetics: meta-analysis of QTLs controlling agronomic and morphological traits
Authors: Hajibarat Zahra , Saidi Abbas , Zeinalabedini Mehrshad , Shariati Vahid , Mousapour Gorji Ahmad , Ghaffari Mohammad Reza
Published: October 2024

Context Development of high-yielding potato cultivars represents the most efficient and sustainable strategy to secure global food and nutrition. In the past decades, numerous quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping studies have identified various QTLs associated with morphological traits in potato. However, the varying genetic backgrounds of germplasm and the diverse QTL analysis algorithms restrict the utility of identified QTLs for research. Aims One of the primary objectives of breeders is to identify consistent chromosomal regions linked to economically significant quantitative traits associated with yield through QTL analysis. To achieve this, an investigation was conducted to pinpoint the most stable QTLs for traits such as maturity, harvest index, plant height, stem diameter, tuber starch content, sprouting, and flesh colour. Methods In order to detect stable QTLs for major agronomic traits, metaQTL analysis was performed using 294 QTLs from 14 publications. Key results A total of 10 metaQTLs were found to be associated with seven morphological traits. Meta-analysis was considerably refined as compared to the initial QTLs and provided the closest flanking markers for investigated traits and reduce confidence interval mainly to five folds as compared to the mean confidence interval of initial QTLs. The metaQTLs of morphological traits juxtaposed along Chromosomes II, III, IV, and V from independent studies were considered the most stable QTLs over different field trails and genetic background. Conclusions Ten metaQTLs were identified that contain major consensus QTLs for various morphological traits in potato. Implications This study will enable the integration of QTLs to create new cultivars with targeted quantitative traits, thereby accelerating breeding initiatives.
Coupling of cell growth modulation to asymmetric division and cell cycle regulation in
Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Glenn Skye , Fragasso Alessio , Lin Wei-Hsiang , Papagiannakis Alexandros , Kato Setsu , Jacobs-Wagner Christine
Published: October 2024

In proliferating bacteria, growth rate is often assumed to be similar between daughter cells. However, most of our knowledge of cell growth derives from studies on symmetrically dividing bacteria. In many α-proteobacteria, asymmetric division is a normal part of the life cycle, with each division producing daughter cells with different sizes and fates. Here, we demonstrate that the functionally distinct swarmer and stalked daughter cells produced by the model α-proteobacterium
Caulobacter crescentus
can have different average growth rates under nutrient-replete conditions despite sharing an identical genome and environment. The discrepancy in growth rate is due to a growth slowdown associated with the cell cycle stage preceding DNA replication (the G1 phase), which initiates in the late predivisional mother cell before daughter cell separation. Both progenies experience a G1-associated growth slowdown, but the effect is more severe in swarmer cells because they have a longer G1 phase. Activity of SpoT, which produces the (p)ppGpp alarmone and extends the G1 phase, accentuates the cell cycle-dependent growth slowdown. Collectively, our data identify a coupling between cell growth, the G1 phase, and asymmetric division that
C. crescentus
may exploit for environmental adaptation through SpoT activity. This coupling differentially modulates the growth rate of functionally distinct daughter cells, thereby altering the relative abundance of ecologically important G1-specific traits within the population.
Calcineurin-mediated dephosphorylation stabilizes E2F1 protein by suppressing binding of the FBXW7 ubiquitin ligase subunit
Authors: Sato Yuki , Habara Makoto , Hanaki Shunsuke , Masaki Takahiro , Tomiyasu Haruki , Miki Yosei , Sakurai Masashi , Morimoto Masahiro , Kobayashi Daigo , Miyamoto Tatsuo , Shimada Midori
Published: October 2024

The transcription factor E2F1 serves as a regulator of the cell cycle and promotes cell proliferation. It is highly expressed in cancer tissues and contributes to their malignant transformation. Degradation by the ubiquitin–proteasome system may help to prevent such overexpression of E2F1 and thereby to suppress carcinogenesis. A detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying E2F1 degradation may therefore inform the development of new cancer treatments. We here identified SCF
FBXW7
as a ubiquitin ligase for E2F1 by comprehensive analysis. We found that phosphorylation of E2F1 at serine-403 promotes its binding to FBXW7 (F-box/WD repeat–containing protein 7) followed by its ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, calcineurin, a Ca
2+
/calmodulin-dependent serine-threonine phosphatase, was shown to stabilize E2F1 by mediating its dephosphorylation at serine-403 and thereby preventing FBXW7 binding. Treatment of cells with Ca
2+
channel blockers resulted in downregulation of both E2F1 protein and the expression of E2F1 target genes, whereas treatment with the Ca
2+
ionophore ionomycin induced upregulation of E2F1. Finally, the calcineurin inhibitor FK506 attenuated xenograft tumor growth in mice in association with downregulation of E2F1 in the tumor tissue. Impairment of the balance between the opposing actions of FBXW7 and calcineurin in the regulation of E2F1 abundance may therefore play an important role in carcinogenesis.
Garbage day as dispositive and semiotic landscape
Authors: Pellanda Alessandro
Published: October 2024

For many, garbage day functions as a mundane performance of civic and even national selfhood; yet garbage days are
also practices with complex spatial and semiotic entanglements. To demonstrate this, I present a visual essay which draws on an
ethnographically informed study of garbage day in five Swiss cities. At the intersection of semiotic landscape studies and
dispositive analysis, these banal practices constitute biopolitical forms of governance and control. In this setting, waste
reveals itself as a language-material formation; this interplay of words — both visible and invisible — and things is central to
the distinct meanings and practices of wasting. Rather than approaching garbage bags as passive receptacles or neutral
technologies, therefore, they are best understood as performative regimes by which waste is displaced, public space is ordered,
and particular subjectivities are produced.
Streamer inception probability in air at atmospheric pressure – an experimental and theoretical analysis
Authors: Skirbekk Fanny , Meyer Hans Kristian Hygen , Mauseth Frank , Marskar Robert
Published: October 2024

We consider a self-consistent and probabilistic formulation of the classical Raether–Meek streamer inception model, and compare it with dedicated experiments. Our approach is based on the statistical evaluation of a first critical electron. This is done by evaluating the Raether–Meek integral for arbitrary starting positions of the first electron, and evaluating the size of the region in which the electrons can transition into a streamer. Then, using an ensemble-averaged model for the negative ion distribution which acts as a source of initial electrons, we compute the time-dependent probability of streamer inception. Unlike the standard Meek-based inception model, the experiments show that the generalized formulation is valid for both voltage polarities, but in return it requires knowledge about the initial ion distribution and electron detachment rate.
Ultra-broadband underwater meta-absorber with gradient impedance-matched composite material
Authors: Gan Zeliang , Mo Youyu , Fan Haiyan , Zhu Yifan , Zhang Hui
Published: October 2024

We have developed an underwater acoustic meta-absorber that exhibits ultra-broadband absorption, with most of absorption coefficients exceeding 0.9 across the frequency range of 1 kHz−20 kHz. This performance is achieved through the localized trapping of acoustic waves and efficient energy dissipation, facilitated by local resonances within meticulously designed, impedance-matched composite materials. The designed gradient structure of the absorber allows for a reduced width of 84 mm (0.05λ at 1 kHz) and a customizable length, determined by the number of unit cells, each with a length of 15 mm (0.01λ at 1 kHz). This different design approach yields an ultra-broadband meta-absorber of compact dimensions, offering a promising alternative for the development of underwater absorption metamaterials and their practical applications.
Addressing the non-perturbative regime of the quantum anharmonic oscillator by physics-informed neural networks
Authors: Brevi Lorenzo , Mandarino Antonio , Prati Enrico
Published: October 2024

The use of deep learning in physical sciences has recently boosted the ability of researchers to tackle physical systems where little or no analytical insight is available. Recently, the Physics−Informed Neural Networks (PINNs) have been introduced as one of the most promising tools to solve systems of differential equations guided by some physically grounded constraints. In the quantum realm, such an approach paves the way to a novel approach to solve the Schrödinger equation for non-integrable systems. By following an unsupervised learning approach, we apply the PINNs to the anharmonic oscillator in which an interaction term proportional to the fourth power of the position coordinate is present. We compute the eigenenergies and the corresponding eigenfunctions while varying the weight of the quartic interaction. We bridge our solutions to the regime where both the perturbative and the strong coupling theory work, including the pure quartic oscillator. We investigate systems with real and imaginary frequency, laying the foundation for novel numerical methods to tackle problems emerging in quantum field theory.
Gravitational wave background from primordial black holes in globular clusters
Authors: Vanzan Eleonora , Libanore Sarah , Valbusa Dall'Armi Lorenzo , Bellomo Nicola , Raccanelli Alvise
Published: October 2024

Primordial black holes still represent a viable candidate for a significant fraction, if
not for the totality, of dark matter. If these compact objects have masses of order tens of solar
masses, their coalescence can be observed by current and future ground-based gravitational wave
detectors. Therefore, finding new gravitational wave signatures associated with this dark matter
candidate can either lead to their detection or help constraining their abundance. In this work
we consider the phenomenology of primordial black holes in dense environments, in particular
globular clusters. We model the internal structure of globular clusters in a semi-analytical
fashion, and we derive the expected merger rate. We show that, if primordial black holes are
present in globular clusters, their contribution to the GW background can be comparable to other
well-known channels, such as early- and late-time binaries, thus enhancing the detectability
prospects of primordial black holes and demonstrating that this contribution needs to be taken
into account.
Optimization through response surface modelling, experimental validation on development of nanocellulose for pharmaceutical applications
Authors: Keshavamurthysetty Pradeep Heregangur , Patel Dipti H
Published: October 2024

Nanocellulose, a promising polymer derived from lignocellulosic sources, is utilized in various applications such as paper production, water purification, wound dressing, scaffolds, biosensors, super-disintegrants, cosmetics, and drug delivery systems. The study investigates the production of optimized nanocellulose size using response surface methodology, examining the impact of factors like sulphuric acid concentration and temperature on the acid hydrolysis process. The central composite design was used to screen and adjust the design matrix with two-factor levels. The optimized size of nanocellulose was found to be 364.1 nm, with a zeta potential of −40.6, which shows long-term stability. Hence, process variables like sulphuric acid of 48.29% v/v and temperature of 39.7 °C were optimized to get the desired particle size from commercial cellulose. An Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was applied to determine the primary parameters that have a significant impact on the particle size of nanocellulose. Thus, the obtained nanocellulose was characterized using FTIR, XRD, DLS and TEM analysis. FTIR confirms that the functional groups of cellulose are similar in nanocellulose. As the XRD illustrates, 67% of the crystallinity index in the developed nanocellulose is semicrystalline. The particle size was found within the nm size by employing the DLS method. Nanocellulose was characterized using TEM for surface morphology. Thus, obtained nanocellulose is widely used in various pharmaceutical applications like tissue engineering, cosmeceuticals, wound healing, scaffolds, aerogels, hydrogels, and controlled release of drugs.
Quantum non-Gaussian states of superfluid Helium vibrations
Authors: Rakhubovsky Andrey A , Filip Radim
Published: October 2024

Quantum non-Gaussian states of phononic systems coupled to light are essential for fundamental studies of single-phonon mechanics and direct applications in quantum technology. Although nonclassical mechanical states have already been demonstrated, the more challenging quantum non-Gaussianity of such states remains limited. Using photon counting detection, we propose the quantum non-Gaussian generation of few-phonon states of low-temperature vibrating superfluid Helium. We predict the quantum non-Gaussian depth of such phononic states and investigate their robustness under relevant mechanical heating. As the quality of such phononic states is very high, we confirm a single-phonon bunching capability to further classify such states for future mechanical experiments. Moreover, we predict increasing capability for force sensing and thermometry for increasing heralded phonon numbers.
Surface temperature modulations induced by Rossby Wave Breaking over Indian region
Authors: Biyo Thomas , Kunchala Ravi Kumar , Kumar Kondapalli Niranjan , Singh Bhupendra Bahadur , Yesubabu Viswanadhapalli
Published: October 2024

Upper-level Rossby Wave Breaking (RWB) significantly affects surface weather patterns in the subtropical Indian region through influencing wind circulation often resulting in extremes in rainfall and surface temperatures. While the impact of RWB on rainfall is relatively well understood, its role in modulating surface temperatures within the Indian subcontinent is less explored. This study examines the link between pre-monsoon (March to May) RWB events and the occurrence of extreme surface temperatures and heatwaves by considering long-term data of 43 years between 1979 and 2021. We identify 139 RWB events using a potential vorticity (PV) contour searching algorithm over the Indian sub-continent. Our analysis reveals a significant amplification in temperature both to the west and east of the breaking PV streamers. These temperature anomalies, which last for 3–4 days during the breaking events, strongly correlate with the maximum day of breaking. Further, regression analyses explain the reasons behind the temperature enhancement mainly on the western and eastern flank of RWB. It indicates a positive association between upper-level PV anomalies and anticyclonic circulations at 250 hPa, along with subsidence at 500 hPa, leading to drier conditions in the western and eastern regions of the PV streamers. Additionally, the decomposition of temperature anomalies during RWB events reveals that surface warming is primarily driven by diabatic heating on both sides of the centroid, with stronger adiabatic heating in regions of upper-level anticyclonic circulation and significant temperature advection predominantly on the western side of the centroid, resulting in dry weather and the poleward movement of warm air toward the ridges near the PV streamers.
Secure healthcare data for block chain networking based on Triple Des (TDES) protocol and Ekmc
Authors: K Malathy , R Jaichandran
Published: October 2024

Smart Health Care provides efficient, sustainable, and real-time human services, with its development rooted in the idea of an improved Internet of Things (IoT). However, the integration of these IoT-centric devices with other organizations raises security concerns, as unauthorized users may exploit the available data. Given that alterations in data values from sensors can impact the diagnostic process, potentially leading to severe health issues, ensuring data security and privacy emerges as a paramount concern in the healthcare industry. The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) signifies a set of healthcare technology that allow care providers, doctors, and medical testing establishments to store and share health data automatically. Despite this, guaranteeing data privacy protection during IoMT transmission is a difficult challenge. To solve these issues, the combination of blockchain (BC) and IoMT provides resilience against multiple attacks while maintaining anonymity. Blockchain successfully enables peer-to-peer data transmission, detecting a large number of potential dangers. The creation of blockchain networking based on the TDES-EKMC addresses the limitations of blockchain networking in the IoMT domain. For user mutual authentication, the proposed framework employs the ECMQV-MAC protocol, the DC-PC for data storage module, and the DM-BGC for key generation. This protocol assures that users have the legal right to use blockchain networking (BCN), while also avoiding superfluous data storage in the blockchain. The key generation process strengthens data privacy defenses against both internal and external attacks. Finally, authorized users can contribute healthcare data to the blockchain, and TDES-EKMC provides secure data transmission in blockchain networking. The suggested framework beats the traditional state-of-the-art technique in terms of throughput, Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR) value, privacy leakage, and the additional time necessary to build new blocks, according to test findings.
Design and fabrication of patterned flexible electrode using DC sputtering and shadow mask
Authors: Savari Hediyeh , Nikfarjam Alireza
Published: October 2024

Flexible electrodes are essential components of flexible electronic devices. However, fabricating these electrodes is challenging because conventional methods are not easily applicable to them. Flexible substrates, such as polymer, fabric, and paper, are delicate and require specialized deposition techniques. To address this challenge, we present a novel, single-step method using DC sputtering and a shadow mask to fabricate high-resolution silver electrodes on polymer and fabric substrates. This approach is cost-effective, overcomes the limitations of multi-step processes, and enables direct electrode patterning. In our study, we produced and used thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) with a thickness of 310 micrometers as the polymer substrate, which has an elongation at break of 749.39%. Furthermore, we demonstrate successful fabrication of silver electrodes on TPU with a sheet resistance of 3 (Ω/sq) and on wool fabric with 90 (Ω/sq) with a 10-micrometer resolution. In addition to the tensile test, we conducted a contact angle test to compare TPU characteristics with those of other common substrates. The result was 85.98° for TPU and 67.38° for metal-coated TPU. The findings indicate that this electrode showed high flexibility, bendability, and compatibility with curved surfaces, such as human hands, making it an excellent choice for wearable applications. This method is versatile and can be used for various substrates, materials, and patterns. Therefore, it can be useful for creating conductive paths and patterns on flexible substrates.
Impersonal and anti-impersonal constructions
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

The impersonal coding frames that constitute the main topic of this chapter are defined as constructions violating the Obligatory Coding Principle in languages in which A-alignment is strongly predominant, and the anti-impersonal coding frames dealt with in § 6.7 are their mirror-image in the languages in which P-alignment is strongly predominant. After discussing the distinction between impersonal constructions defined as non-canonical coding frames and the other phenomena commonly grouped under the notion of impersonality, this chapter proposes a distinction between lexical impersonal constructions and pragmatic impersonal constructions, and discusses the relevance of the notion of impersonal construction for the analysis of meteorological clauses.
Voice alternations
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

This chapter offers a general survey of verb-coded valency alternations. Section 8.1 discusses the basic notions for the analysis of voice alternations, including the key notions of nucleativization and denucleativization of participants. Section 8.2 highlights polysemy as a common property of voice markers. Section 8.3 presents the main types of voice alternations and discusses the place of portative derivation in the typology of voice. Section 8.4 examines the possibility of combing voice markers with compositional or non-compositional interpretations. Section 8.5 is devoted to symmetrical voices, defined as voices marking the selection of a pivot in pivot-prominent systems of transitive coding. Section 8.6 discusses systems of inflectional voices, in which voice marking is conflated with inflectional categories (TAM and/or indexation). Section 8.7 examines voice contrasts consistently marked by stem alternations or involving sporadical instances of equipollent marking.
Antipassivization
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

In this chapter, Section 10.1 discusses the definition of antipassivization as a voice alternation involving nothing else than denucleativization of the P term of transitive clauses. Section 10.2 examines the possible treatments of the referent of P in antipassive constructions. Section 10.3 deals with the cross-linguistic variation in the functions and conditioning of antipassivization. Section 10.4 discusses the relationship between antipassivization and the Obligatory Coding Principle. Sections 10.5 to 10.7 examine successively the antipassivization of double-P constructions, antipassive-like alternations targeting obliques and S-denucleativization of antipassive constructions. Section 10.8 is devoted to the co-expression patterns in which antipassive markers may be involved, and Section 10.9 discusses the possible origins of antipassive markers.
Causativization
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

The first section of this chapter devoted to causativization discusses definitional and terminological issues. Sections 12.2 and 12.3 provide an overview of various semantic and formal issues commonly addressed in the literature on causative construction. A salient feature of the account of causativization put forward in this chapter is the special attention devoted to the possibility of accounting for some a priori non-canonical uses of causative morphology (such as agentivization and perspectivization, cf. section 12.4) by considering the usual definition of causativization as a particular case of a broader definition. Section 12.5 is devoted to causative markers also used as markers of other types of valency operations. Section 12.6 analyzes non-valency-related uses of causative markers. Section 12.7 discusses lexicalized causatives. Section 12.8 reviews the possible historical origins of causative markers.
Applicativization
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

The first section of this chapter comments on the broad definition of applicativization adopted in this book and the distinction between three varieties of applicativization that differ in the syntactic role of the applied phrase: P-applicativization; D-applicativization; and X-applicativization. Sections 14.2 and 14.3 examine in more detail P-applicatives and X-applicatives respectively. Section 14.4 deals with the variation in the semantic roles expressed by the applied phrase. Section 14.5 is devoted to multiple applicatives and the combination of applicative markers with markers of other valency operations. Section 14.6 analyzes the co-expression patterns involving applicativization and other types of voices. Section 14.7 deals with non-valency-related uses of applicative markers. Section 14.8 discusses the origin of applicative markers. Section 14.9 is devoted to lexicalized applicatives.
Noun incorporation, transitivity, and valency
Authors: Creissels Denis
Published: October 2024

The first section of this chapter discusses the notions of incorporation and semi-incorporation. Section 17.2 reviews the main types of noun incorporation attested cross-linguistically (core-reducing nuclear incorporation, core-maintaining nuclear incorporation, concernative incorporation, classificatory incorporation, and adverbial incorporation), and characterizes each of them according to the relationship between the valency properties of the incorporating verb and those of the compound verb. Section 17.3 evokes the question of the historical origin of noun incorporation. Section 17.4 consists of a detailed presentation of noun incorporation in the Mande language Soninke, a language with wide possibilities of cumulating incorporated nouns and voice markers in a single verb form, and in which detransitivization is consistently marked in verb morphology.
Homing behavior of a tree lizard: influences of mating resource and habitat structure
Authors: Zhang Yu-De , Chou Chun-Chia , Liao Chen-Pan , Lin Jhan-Wei , Clark Rulon W , Hsu Jung-Ya , Huang Wen-San
Published: October 2024

Homing behavior, characterized by repeated navigation to specific spatial areas, is shaped by individual condition and numerous environmental factors varying at both individual and population levels. Homing behavior is often measured by quantifying site fidelity and homing success. Site fidelity reflects an individual’s inclination to stay or reuse its previously occupied location, while homing success assesses the likelihood of an individual returning to its original location after an involuntary translocation. Exploring the effects of ecological and environmental factors on homing behavior across populations offers valuable insights into its adaptability to diverse and changing environments. Here, we conducted a translocation experiment involving 8 populations of Swinhoe’s tree lizard (Diploderma swinhonis). We examined the effects of resource availability (mate and food), morphological traits, habitat structure, and population density on both site fidelity and homing success. Our results revealed significant variations in both site fidelity and homing success, both within and between populations. Males exhibited higher site fidelity when they had high numbers of female neighbors and low levels of heterogeneity of male neighbors. Regarding homing success, males returned to their territories more rapidly when their territories provided abundant mating opportunities and low levels of intrasexual competition. Additionally, habitat structure influenced homing success, with males showing higher success rates in populations characterized by smaller trees, or when they occupied smaller territory trees. Overall, our findings emphasize the necessity of making comparisons within and between populations to better understand the evolutionary and ecological forces shaping animal navigation.
Pre-hospital delay intention and its associated factors in the high-risk population of stroke: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Chen Mengxia , Wang Mengdi , Qiao Mengting , Yu Bing , Chen Wenyao , Huang Xiaorong , Zhang Jingwen , Weng Yanqiu , Zhang Lingjuan
Published: October 2024

Aims

To explore the possible latent classifications of pre-hospital delayed intention at high risk of stroke and to analyse the characteristics of different profiles.

Methods and results

A cross-sectional study was conducted in one community in Shanghai, China. Four hundred and seventy individuals at high risk of stroke were recruited, and self-reported questionnaires (including socio-demographic, stroke knowledge, health belief, and pre-hospital delay behaviour intention scale) were distributed between April and June 2023. A latent profile analysis was employed to identify the delay intention clusters, and multinomial logistic regression was utilized to ascertain the factors influencing the latent classes of delay intention. Four hundred and fifty-seven high-risk populations with a response rate of 97.23% were finally enrolled in this study. Four distinct classes were identified: high warning signs-low delay intention (26.3%), low warning signs-low delay intention (17.7%), moderate level of delay intention (37.3%), and high level of delay intention (18.7%). The influencing factors included stroke knowledge, health belief, age, education background, the nearest distance to the medical institution, and household income.

Conclusion

The pre-hospital delay intention among high-risk populations of stroke was classified into four distinct classes. It is crucial for individuals at high risk to remain vigilant towards stroke symptoms and to take prompt action. Health promotion education may be explored as a strategy to bridge the gap between the recognition of stroke symptoms and the low pre-hospital delay intention.
The Effects of Social Interaction Intervention on Cognitive Functions Among Older Adults Without Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wei Chi-Chuan , Hsieh Min-Jia , Chuang Yi-Fang
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Previous systemic reviews, predominantly including observational studies, have shown that participation in social activities is a protective factor against cognitive decline. However, this association is subject to potential reverse causality, creating a knowledge gap in our understanding of the effect of social interaction interventions on cognitive function. Therefore, this study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to examine the effects of social interaction interventions on cognitive decline among older adults without dementia.

Research Design and Methods

This systematic review, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022367828), systematically searched 6 databases from inception to May 6, 2022, to identify relevant articles on the effects of activities with social interaction components on cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults without dementia aged above 60. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and bias assessment, with RevMan5.3 used for meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis was conducted to assess variation in intervention effects among subgroups.

Results

We included 11 studies for qualitative analysis and 8 studies for the meta-analysis. The results showed that social interaction intervention had a significant effect on executive function (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.60; 95% CI, 0.50 to 2.70; p = .004), but not attention and memory. The subgroup analysis showed a greater cognitive benefit for healthy older adults, but not those with mild cognitive impairment. Moreover, in-person social interaction positively affected global cognition, whereas online interaction did not.

Discussion and Implications

Social interaction interventions have a limited impact on cognitive function in older adults without dementia but showed potential effects on executive function. This finding offers insights for implementing social intervention in the community.
The Association Between Social Isolation and Incident Dementia Among Older Adults: Evidence From National Health and Aging Trend Study
Authors: Yang Yong , Jiang Yu
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Older adults are vulnerable to social isolation, making it crucial to understand its impact on dementia risk. Yet, existing evidence lacks consistency, with studies using varied measures of social isolation and overlooking potential confounders. We aim to investigate the associations between social isolation and dementia risk among older adults, hypothesizing that this association may diminish after adjusting for confounding factors.

Research Design and Methods

We used 2 977 community-dwelling older adults who had no dementia in 2015 from National Health and Aging Trends. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to analyze the trajectories of social isolation, depression, and anxiety from 2011 to 2015. Cox proportional hazards regression models were then employed to estimate the association between social isolation trajectories and incident dementia from 2015 to 2022, adjusting for demographic variables, depression, anxiety, self-rated health, smoking status, and cardiovascular disease-related variables.

Results

Three social isolation trajectories were identified: minimal, moderate, and high levels of social isolation. During a mean follow-up of 3.6 years, 19.0% of participants were diagnosed with dementia. When only demographics were adjusted, individuals in the moderate social isolation group were 22% less likely to develop dementia compared to those with high social isolation. This association between social isolation and incident dementia became nonsignificant after further adjustment for depression, anxiety, and health indicators.

Discussion and Implications

The association between social isolation and dementia risk may be mediated by factors such as depression and other health indicators.
Noncommutative Nest Hardy Spaces and Martingales
Authors: Potapov Denis , Sukochev Fedor , Zhou Dejian
Published: October 2024

Let $(\mathcal{M},\tau )$ be a finite von Neumann algebra equipped with a normalized faithful trace and let $\mathbb{A}$ be a nest of order type $\mathbb{N}$. The nest algebra is defined by $H_{\infty }^{r}(\mathbb{A})=\{x\in \mathcal{M}:ex=exe,e\in \mathbb{A}\}$, and the related noncommutative Hardy space $H_{p}^{r}(\mathbb{A})$ is the completion of $H_{\infty }^{r}(\mathbb{A})$ in $L_{p}(\mathcal{M})$. In the present paper, we make a connection between $H_{p}^{r}(\mathbb{A})$ and certain noncommutative martingale Hardy space via showing that triangular truncation is a concrete martingale transform. We include several related results for noncommutative nest Hardy spaces in the spirit of recent development of noncommutative martingale theory.
Recruitment of complete crAss-like phage genomes reveals their presence in chicken viromes, few human-specific phages, and lack of universal detection
Authors: Ramos-Barbero María Dolores , Gómez-Gómez Clara , Vique Gloria , Sala-Comorera Laura , Rodríguez-Rubio Lorena , Muniesa Maite
Published: October 2024

The order Crassvirales, which includes the prototypical crAssphage (p-crAssphage), is predominantly associated with humans, rendering it the most abundant and widely distributed group of DNA phages in the human gut. The reported human specificity and wide global distribution of p-crAssphage makes it a promising human fecal marker. However, the specificity for the human gut as well as the geographical distribution around the globe of other members of the order Crassvirales remains unknown. To determine this, a recruitment analysis using 91 complete, non-redundant genomes of crAss-like phages in human and animal viromes revealed that only 13 crAss-like phages among the 91 phages analyzed were highly specific to humans, and p-crAssphage was not in this group. Investigations to elucidate whether any characteristic of the phages was responsible for their prevalence in humans showed that the 13 human crAss-like phages do not share a core genome. Phylogenomic analysis placed them in three independent families, indicating that within the Crassvirales group, human specificity is likely not a feature of a common ancestor but rather was introduced on separate/independent occasions in their evolutionary history. The 13 human crAss-like phages showed variable geographical distribution across human metagenomes worldwide, with some being more prevalent in certain countries than in others, but none being universally identified. The varied geographical distribution and the absence of a phylogenetic relationship among the human crAss-like phages are attributed to the emergence and dissemination of their bacterial host, the symbiotic human strains of Bacteroides, across various human populations occupying diverse ecological niches worldwide.
Perinatal and Neonatal Chikungunya Virus Transmission: A Case Series
Authors: Ferreira Fátima C P A Di Maio , Filippis Ana M Bispo de , Moreira Maria Elisabeth L , de Campos Simone B , Fuller Trevon , Lopes Fernanda C R , Brasil Patrícia
Published: October 2024

Background

Large-scale epidemics in countries with high birth rates can create a concerning scenario where pregnant people are more likely to transmit the virus. In addition, increased international mobility has made arboviruses a growing problem for travelers. The increased risk of vertical transmission has been related to maternal viremia near delivery. Such transmission leads to severe infection of newborns and may be associated with subsequent neurological impairment including cerebral palsy. This case series provides an overview of clinical and laboratory findings in pregnant individuals with confirmed chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection as well as the clinical effects on their newborn emphasizing the severity of neonatal chikungunya.

Methods

An ambispective case series enrolled newborns with confirmed exposure to CHIKV in utero or in the neonatal period.

Results

During the delivery period, the transmission rate among viremic individuals was approximately 62% (18/29). Fever, irritability, rash, and poor feeding in the first week of life were critical signs of neonatal chikungunya, highlighting its severity.

Conclusion

Close monitoring of healthy newborns during the first week of life is essential in areas affected by CHIKV epidemics, and in offspring of pregnant travelers who visited the outbreaks zones. This case series is intended to increase neonatologists’ awareness of the possibility of mother-to-child transmission of CHIKV among newborns with a sepsis-like presentation. Prioritizing CHIKV vaccination for women of childbearing age should also be considered.
RNA kinetics influence the response to transcriptional perturbation in leukaemia cell lines
Authors: Todorovski Izabela , Tsang Mary-Jane , Feran Breon , Fan Zheng , Gadipally Sreeja , Yoannidis David , Kong Isabella Y , Bjelosevic Stefan , Rivera Sarahi , Voulgaris Olivia , Zethoven Magnus , Hawkins Edwin D , Simpson Kaylene J , Arnau Gisela Mir , Papenfuss Anthony T , Johnstone Ricky W , Vervoort Stephin J
Published: October 2024

Therapeutic targeting of dysregulated transcription has emerged as a promising strategy for the treatment of cancers, such as leukaemias. The therapeutic response to small molecule inhibitors of Bromodomain-Containing Proteins (BRD), such as BRD2 and BRD4, P300/cAMP-response element binding protein (CBP) and Cyclin Dependent Kinases (CDKs), is generally attributed to the selective disruption of oncogenic gene expression driven by enhancers, super-enhancers (SEs) and lineage-specific transcription factors (TFs), including the c-MYC oncogene. The selectivity of compounds targeting the transcriptional machinery may be further shaped by post-transcriptional processes. To quantitatively assess the contribution of post-transcriptional regulation in responses to transcription inhibition, we performed multi-omics analyses to accurately measure mRNA production and decay kinetics. We demonstrate that it is not only the selective disruption of mRNA production, but rather mRNA decay rates that largely influence the selectivity associated with transcriptional inhibition. Accordingly, genes down-regulated with transcriptional inhibitors are largely characterized by extremely rapid mRNA production and turnover. In line with this notion, stabilization of the c-MYC transcript through swapping of its 3′ untranslated region (UTR) rendered c-MYC insensitive to transcriptional targeting. This failed to negate the impact on c-MYC downstream targets and did not abrogate therapeutic responses. Finally, we provide evidence that modulating post-transcriptional pathways, such as through ELAVL1 targeting, can sensitize long-lived mRNAs to transcriptional inhibition and be considered as a combination therapy approach in leukaemia. Taken together, these data demonstrate that mRNA kinetics influence the therapeutic response to transcriptional perturbation and can be modulated for novel therapeutic outcomes using transcriptional agents in leukaemia.
Oral health and dental care challenges in scleroderma—perspectives of dentists, rheumatologists and patients
Authors: Mills Tyler J , Price Elizabeth , Aggarwal Vishal R , Del Galdo Francesco , Walker Liz
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The oral healthcare challenges of people living with scleroderma are poorly understood, yet frequently reported. This mixed methods study aimed to investigate oral health and dental care challenges associated with scleroderma from the perspective of dentists, rheumatologists and patients.

Methods

Dentists, rheumatologists and scleroderma patients in the UK completed a survey about their experiences of oral health, dental care and quality of life. People with scleroderma were also interviewed. We conducted descriptive analysis of quantitative data and used thematic analysis to examine qualitative data.

Results

A total of 95.5% of patients reported oral and dental manifestations of scleroderma (ODMS); 57.1% reported high physical impacts, 53.8% high psychological impacts and 47.7% high social impacts. Only 13% of patients were informed of ODMS at diagnosis. No dentist or rheumatologist felt fully confident in managing ODMS. The most frequent suggestion for improvement among patients and dentists was increased information for dentists. We identified three key themes: significant negative impact on quality of life, barriers to accessing dental care and characteristics of good dental care.

Conclusion

ODMS are prevalent issues, constituting a significant burden on quality of life. Rheumatologists should inform scleroderma patients of ODMS and embed oral health inquiries into annual reviews. Communication between medical and dental practitioners should be encouraged to facilitate early identification and management of ODMS.
Prevalence and incidence of uveitis in patients with spondyloarthritis: the impact of the biologics era. Data from the international ASAS-COMOSPA study
Authors: Maldonado-Ficco Hernán , López-Medina Clementina , Perez-Alamino Rodolfo , Waimann Christian A , Maldonado-Cocco José A , Moltó Anna , Dougados Maxime , Landewé Robert B M , van der Heijde Désirée , van Den Bosch Filip
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Uveitis is a common extra-musculoskeletal manifestation in SpA. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of uveitis in SpA patients, and its association with geographical areas, and to determine whether its incidence differed between before and after the biologics era.

Methods

ASAS-COMOSPA is a retrospective study that includes patients fulfilling Assessment in SpondyloArthritis International Society (ASAS) SpA classification criteria from 22 countries. The overall prevalence of uveitis was calculated, and factors associated with the onset of a first episode of uveitis were evaluated using a Cox regression. A Log-Rank test was performed to compare the new onset of uveitis in the non-biologics era (SpA onset before 2000) vs biologics era (SpA onset after 2000).

Results

A total of 3984 patients were included. The likelihood of presenting a first uveitis episode increased over time, from a prevalence of 10.5% (95% CI 9.5–11.4%) at the time of the SpA diagnosis to 46.6% (41.6–51.5%) after 30 years since the SpA diagnosis. HLA-B27 positivity, family history of uveitis, peripheral enthesitis, and IBD were associated with higher risk of uveitis. Patients with SpA disease onset after the year 2000 showed a lower prevalence of uveitis compared with those with disease onset before the year 2000 (8.2% vs 25.5%, P <0.01), as well as a lower incidence (2.8 per 100 person-years vs 6.1 per 100 person-years, respectively).

Conclusion

In our study, the risk of having suffered from at least one episode of uveitis ranged from 10% at the time of the diagnosis of axial SpA to 47% after 30 years of disease duration. Patients with disease onset after biologic therapy introduction showed a significantly lower prevalence and incidence of first episodes of uveitis.
Pyrrolnitrin in Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain AFS009 metabolites reduces constitutive and DMI-induced MfCYP51 gene expression in Monilinia fructicola
Authors: Wesche Johanna , Wu Peishan , Luo Chaoxi , Schnabel Guido
Published: October 2024

Brown rot, caused by Monilinia fructicola, is one of the most economically important diseases of peach. Demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides play an important part in managing brown rot in the southeastern U.S., but over the last 20 years, reduced efficacy to DMIs has been reported in field isolates overexpressing the DMI target enzyme encoding MfCYP51 gene. Metabolites of the biocontrol agent (BCA) Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain AFS009 suppressed the MfCYP51 gene in sensitive and resistant M. fructicola isolates previousely, but it is not known what molecule was responsible. The goals of this study were to determine the presence and role of pyrrolnitrin (PRN), a common metabolite of P. chlororaphis and chemical analogue to fludioxonil with antifungal activity, in the suppression of the MfCYP51 gene and to investigate if MfCYP51 expression can also be suppressed by Bacillus subtilis. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) detected pyrrolnitrin at 1.75 µg/mg in P. chlororaphis metabolites formulated as Howler EVO (Howler). PRN at 0.1 µg/ml, fludioxonil at 0.1 µg/ml, and Howler applied at a dose that contained 0.1 µg/ml PRN significantly reduced the MfCYP51 gene expression at similar levels in DMI-resistant isolates. Furthermore, MfCYP51 expression in DMI-sensitive and three DMI-resistant isolates treated with Howler (88.1 µg/ml), Theia (209.5 µg/ml), propiconazole (0.3 µg/ml), or the mixture of either Howler or Theia + propiconazole revealed that Howler significantly reduced the MfCYP51 target gene expression in two of three sensitive and all three resistant M. fructicola isolates. On the other hand, Theia showed no suppressive effect and even increased the MfCYP51 gene expression level in two of three resistant isolates. In detached fruit assays on apple with a DMI resistant isolate, only the mixture of Howler + 50 µg/ml propiconazole resulted in synergism. The results indicate that suppression of MfCYP51 target gene is BCA-dependent and can be induced by pyrrolnitrin.