bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome‐scale genomes of Toona fargesii provide insights into competency of root sprouting
Authors: Ma Jikai , Cheng Qiangqiang , Zhong Qiuwei , Fu Fangfang , Jia Ting , Du Xuanjin , Cao Wen , Xu Ling , Cao Fuliang , Guo Chunce , Zhang Lu
Published: December 2024

Toona fargesii A. Chev., a versatile tree in the Toona genus of the Meliaceae family, is renowned for its exquisite timber and medicinal properties, offering promising benefits. Due to natural regeneration obstacles and long‐term excessive exploitation, it has been threatened in China. Intriguingly, root sprouting, which may diminish the genetic diversity and hinder population development, dominates the reproductive pattern of T. fargesii in the wild. However, the lack of complete genome information has hampered basic studies on the regeneration, classification, evolution and conservation of this species. Here, we report the genome of T. fargesii, which was sequenced using the PacBio platform and assembled into a high‐quality genome with a total size of 535.24 Mb. Of this, 97.93% of the assembled contigs were anchored onto 28 pseudochromosomes, achieving a chromosome‐level genome. The long terminal repeat assembly index score was 21.34, and the consensus quality value was 39.90%, indicating the accuracy and completeness of the genome. Comparative genome analysis suggested that a recent whole genome duplication event occurred between 22.1 and 50.1 Mya in the Toona genus, with the divergence time between T. fargesii and its relative T. sinensis estimated at approximately ~16.7 Mya. Additionally, 13 TfARR genes, which play integral roles in root sprouting by mediating cytokinin signaling, underwent rapid gene expansion and showed significant enrichment in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that differentially expressed genes between root sprouts and nonroot sprouts were significantly enriched in the zeatin biosynthesis pathway, indicating that cytokinin regulation is involved in root sprouting development. Collectively, the findings provide valuable genomic resources for the Toona genus and genetic insights into the mechanisms of root sprouting in T. fargesii.
Integrated genomic analysis reveals the fine‐scale population genetic structure and variety differentiation of Taihangia rupestris, a rare cliff plant
Authors: Liu Meng , Xing Wen‐Long , Zhang Bin , Wen Ming‐Lu , Cheng Yue‐Qin , Liu Yan‐Yan , Cao Ya‐Nan , Wang Hong‐Wei
Published: December 2024

Taihangia rupestris Yu & Li, an early spring flowering plant of the Rosaceae family, is classified as a second‐level protected species in China. Endemic to the cliff faces of the Taihang Mountains in central China, this rare species requires a comprehensive understanding and conservation approach. In this study, we analyzed population‐level genetic variations in both chloroplast and nuclear genomes. Taihangia rupestris var. ciliata exhibited higher genetic diversity than T. rupestris var. rupestris in both genome types. All individuals of T. rupestris var. rupestris formed a single cluster, while individuals of T. rupestris var. ciliata were grouped into three distinct clusters. Approximately 29.82 Ma, T. rupestris diverged from its closely related species. Taihangia rupestris var. ciliata appeared first, followed by the differentiation of T. rupestris var. rupestris, which adapted to the climate of the southern Taihang Mountains, around 3.55 Ma. Additionally, our study identified several chloroplast genes potentially involved in variety adaptive differentiation. These findings enhance our understanding of environmental adaptation and differentiation in the two T. rupestris varieties, providing valuable genetic insights for the conservation and utilization of this species.
Effects of gestational intermittent hypoxia on the respiratory system: A tale of the placenta, fetus, and developing offspring
Authors: Valverde‐Pérez Esther , Olea Elena , Rocher Asunción , Aaronson Philip I. , Prieto‐Lloret Jesús
Published: December 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that is associated with a wide variety of health conditions, including cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, metabolic, neoplastic, and neurocognitive manifestations. OSA, as a chronic condition, is mainly characterised by repeated upper airway obstructions during sleep that cause episodes of intermittent hypoxia (IH), resulting in tissue hypoxia–reoxygenation cycles. Decreased arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) and haemoglobin saturation (SatO2) stimulate reflex responses to overcome the obstruction. The prevalence of OSA is significant worldwide, and an underrated problem when focussing on women during pregnancy. The physiological changes associated with pregnancy, especially during its latest stages, are related to a higher prevalence of OSA events in pregnant mothers, and associated with an increased risk of hypertension, pre‐eclampsia and diabetes, among other deleterious consequences. Furthermore, OSA during pregnancy can interfere with normal fetal development and is associated with growth retardation, preterm birth, or low birth weight. Carotid body overstimulation and hypoxia–reoxygenation episodes contribute to cardiovascular disease and oxidative stress, which can harm both mother and fetus and have long‐lasting effects that can reach into adulthood. Because IH is the hallmark of OSA, this review examines the literature available about the impact of gestational intermittent hypoxia (GIH) on the respiratory system at maternal, fetal, and offspring levels. Offering the latest scientific data about OSA during pregnancy, we may help to tackle this condition with lifestyle changes and therapeutic approaches, that could influence the mothers, but also impact adult health problems, mostly unknown, inherited from these hypoxic episodes in the uterus.
Effect of Early‐Life Lipid‐Based Nutrient Supplement and Home Environment on Autonomic Nervous System Regulation at 9–11 Years: A Follow‐Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Aryee Lois M. D. , Adu‐Afarwuah Seth , Prado Elizabeth L. , Guyer Amanda E. , Arnold Charles D. , Dewey Kathryn G. , Amponsah Benjamin , Manu Adom , Oaks Brietta M. , Bentil Helena J. , Nti Helena , Ayete Labi Fatimah B. , Mensah Mavis O. , Adjetey Ebenezer , Hastings Paul D.
Published: December 2024

Nutrition and the home environment contribute to the development of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). However, no study has examined the long‐term effects of prenatal and postnatal small‐quantity lipid‐based nutrient supplements (SQ‐LNS) and home environment on ANS regulation. We investigated the effect of early‐life SQ‐LNS and home environment on ANS regulation at 9–11 years. Participants were children born to women who participated in a randomized controlled trial in Ghana from 2009 to 2014. Women were randomized to receive daily, from pregnancy until delivery, either SQ‐LNS, multiple micronutrients (MMN) or iron and folic acid (IFA) followed by SQ‐LNS, MMN or placebo, respectively, until 6 months postpartum. Infants in the SQ‐LNS group received SQ‐LNS from 6 to 18 months. Quality of home environment was observed at 4–6 and 9–11 years. At 9–11 years, 965 children had their respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and pre‐ejection period (PEP) measured at baseline and during two inhibitory control tasks, the RACER Simon and Emotion Go/No‐Go (EGNG) tasks. PEP reactivity to the RACER Simon task was greater in the MMN (−2.54 ± 4.45, p = 0.016) and SQ‐LNS (−2.31 ± 4.94, p = 0.093) groups than in the IFA group (−1.57 ± 3.51). A better home environment at 4–6 predicted longer baseline PEP (β = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.02, 0.23, p = 0.016) and more PEP reactivity during the EGNG task (β = −0.06, 95% CI: −0.00, −0.02, p = 0.001). Prenatal micronutrient supplementation appears to increase SNS reactivity. Children raised in disadvantaged early home environments had more tonic SNS activation and less SNS reactivity, suggesting a predisposition for stronger fight‐or‐flight activation and less likelihood to modulate arousal in response to acute situations.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00970866
Climate Justice Perspectives and Experiences of Nurses and Their Community Partners
Authors: LeClair Jessica , Dudek Alex , Zahner Susan
Published: December 2024

The global climate crisis is an immediate threat, causing inequitable health impacts across different populations. Climate justice connects the causes and effects of climate change to structural injustices in society. Nurses and community‐based organizations (CBOs) partner in promoting justice and health equity. The purpose of this article is to describe how nurses and their CBO partners envision, perceive, and experience climate justice in the communities they serve. Participants were recruited via a screening survey sent to nursing and public health organizations in the United States. This descriptive mixed‐methods study utilized participatory photo mapping (i.e., combined participatory photography, community mapping, and interviews) to capture participants’ understanding and experiences of climate justice. Recruitment methods identified eight partnerships across six states. Participants depicted how climate injustice is reinforced by colonial severance from Nature. Participants noted that state violence and corporate climate pollution degraded the public's health. Climate justice was described as a long struggle to regain spiritual relationships within Nature, fostering belonging, abundance, and protected communities of care. Planetary health and well‐being were central to participants’ experiences with climate justice. Future research could explore barriers and facilitators to addressing climate injustice and promoting climate justice in diverse settings.
The question‐centered account of harm and benefit
Authors: Thieme Aaron
Published: December 2024

The counterfactual comparative account of harm and benefit (CCA) has faced a barrage of objections from cases involving preemption, overdetermination, and choice. In this paper I provide a unified diagnosis of CCA's vulnerability to these objections: CCA is susceptible to them because it evaluates each act by the same criterion. This is a mistake because, in a sense I make precise, situations raise prudential questions, and only some acts—the relevant alternatives—are directly relevant to these questions. To answer the objections, we must revise CCA so that its evaluations foreground the relevant alternatives. The result is a question‐centered account of harm and benefit.
The OsNL1‐OsTOPLESS2‐OsMOC1/3 pathway regulates high‐order tiller outgrowth in rice
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Feng , Xun Ziqi , Shao Jiale , Luo Wenfan , Jiang Xiaokang , Wang Jiachang , Wang Jian , Li Shuai , Lin Qibing , Ren Yulong , Zhao Huixian , Cheng Zhijun , Wan Jianmin
Published: December 2024

Tiller is an important factor in determining rice yield. Currently, researches mainly focus on the outgrowth of low‐order tiller (LOT), while the regulation mechanism of high‐order tiller (HOT) outgrowth has remained unknown. In this study, we detected one OsNL1 mutant, nl1, exhibiting HOT numbers increase, and found that OsNL1 interacts with OsTOPLESS2, which was mediated by the core motif of nine amino acids VDCTLSLGT within the HAN domain of OsNL1. The topless2 mutant exhibits similar HOT number increase as in the nl1. Through ChIP‐seq analysis, we revealed that OsNL1 recruits OsTOPLESS2 to conduct histone deacetylation in the promoters of OsMOC1 and OsMOC3 to regulate HOT outgrowth. Moreover, we showed that the HAN domain is essential for OsNL1 function as a repressor. In summary, our study reveals partial mechanism of HOT outgrowth in rice and deciphers the molecular biology function of the HAN domain. This will contribute to the comprehensive understanding of tiller outgrowth and the role of HAN‐domain‐containing genes.
Root Exudation: An In‐Depth Experimental Guide
Authors: McLaughlin Sarah , Himmighofen Paul , Khan Sheharyar A. , Siffert Alexandra , Robert Christelle A. M. , Sasse Joëlle
Published: December 2024

Plants exude a wide variety of compounds into the rhizosphere, modulating soil functioning and diversity. The number of studies investigating exudation has exponentially increased over the past decades. Yet, the high inter‐study variability of the results is slowing down our understanding of root–soil interactions. This variability is partly due to the absence of harmonized methodologies to collect and characterize exudation. Here, we discuss how various experimental aspects influence exudation profiles by performing a literature review, and we suggest best practices for different experimental setups. We discuss state‐of‐the‐art of spatially resolved exudate collection, collection in controlled versus field conditions and plant growth setups ranging from hydroponics to soil. We highlight the importance of preparing experimental blanks, in situ versus ex situ exudate collection, various collection media and timing of collection, exudate storage and processing and analytical considerations. We summarize best practices for experimental setup and reporting of parameters in an easily accessible table format to facilitate discussion of best practices in the field. An increased standardization in the field together with the systematic studies suggested will improve our knowledge of how plant exudation shapes interactions with organisms in soil.
Chloroplastic Aspartyl‐tRNA Synthetase Is Required for Chloroplast Development, Photosynthesis and Photorespiratory Metabolism
Authors: Xi Yue , Cai Jiajia , Peng Qiufei , Li Ganting , Zhu Guohui
Published: December 2024

Photorespiration is a complex metabolic process linked to primary plant metabolism and influenced by environmental factors, yet its regulation remains poorly understood. In this study, we identified the asprs3‐1 mutant, which displays a photorespiratory phenotype with leaf chlorosis, stunted growth, and diminished photosynthesis under ambient CO2, but normal growth under elevated CO2 conditions. Map‐based cloning and genetic complementation identified AspRS3 as the mutant gene, encoding an aspartyl‐tRNA synthetase. AspRS3 is localised in both chloroplasts and mitochondria, with the chloroplast being the primary site of its physiological function. The AspRS3 mutation impacts the expression of plastid‐encoded and photosynthesis‐related genes, leading to decreased levels of chloroplast‐encoded proteins such as ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit (RBCL) and ferredoxin‐dependent glutamate synthase (Fd‐GOGAT). Furthermore, we observed an accumulation of photorespiratory intermediates, including glycine and glycerate, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in asprs3‐1. However, under high CO2, the expression of these proteins, the accumulation of photorespiratory intermediates, and ROS levels in asprs3‐1 did not significantly differ from those in the wild type. We propose that elevated CO2 mitigates the asprs3‐1 phenotype by inhibiting Rubisco oxygenation and photorespiratory metabolism. This study highlights the role of aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetases in regulating photorespiration and provides new insights into its metabolic control.
Trend of Metabolic Syndrome Indicators in Working Korean Women According to Smoking Status and Workplace Size: A Population‐Based Retrospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Moon Ji Hyun , Jung Sua
Published: December 2024

Objective

Smoking, a risk factor for metabolic syndrome, is associated with stress relief and pleasure among women, which can hinder efforts to quit smoking, particularly in workplaces. We investigated the metabolic syndrome indicators among working Korean women based on smoking status and workplace size to devise tailored smoking cessation policies.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Sample

Data from 53,126 working Korean women aged 15–64 years were collected between 2009 and 2015.

Measurements

Data were collected from the Female Employees Database derived from the National Health Insurance Service. To assess the trend of metabolic syndrome indicators among working Korean women according to smoking status and workplace size, repeated‐measures analysis of variance was used.

Results

Significant interactions were found between time and group for waist circumference (WC), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and fasting glucose (FG) levels. Trends of metabolic syndrome were more prevalent in small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMSEs) than in large‐sized enterprises (LSEs). Current smokers in the LSE group had the highest WC, triglyceride, systolic blood pressure, and FG values.

Conclusions

These insights may be valuable for devising policies and interventions to improve metabolic health among women working in SMSEs and current smokers in LSEs.
Experimental removal of an invasive tree in Galápagos promotes native and endemic species but also secondary invaders
Authors: Rivas‐Torres Gonzalo , Wilson Chris , Loiselle Bette , Luke Flory S.
Published: December 2024

Plant invasions can form unique plant communities that are sometimes thought to be so different from native‐dominated communities that restoration is either not possible or not logistically feasible. However, few invader removal studies have been conducted in these “novel” ecosystems on islands. To test the potential for restoration of a highly invaded ecosystem in Galápagos, we mechanically removed the canopy‐dominant tree (Cedrela odorata) from 48 replicate plots (of 4 m × 4 m each and spread in three separated sites) and evaluated responses of seeds and seedlings, including germination, establishment, and growth, of eight total endemic, native, and invasive plant species compared to control plots where C. odorata was not removed. Invasive tree removal resulted in approximately 30% greater canopy openness compared to control plots, but did not affect the emergence of any species. However, invader removal significantly promoted seedling establishment and growth of the threatened endemic tree Scalesia pedunculata that historically occupied the site. Around 40% of S. pedunculata individuals established under the invader removal treatment while only 5% established in intact control plots. Moreover, S. pedunculata growth was, on average, 65% greater in plots where the invader was removed. Recruitment of S. pedunculata was inhibited by seedling predators (particularly invasive rats) and coverage by fast‐growing secondary invaders that also benefited from C. odorata removal. Resolving both native and invasive plant species responses to invasive species removal is an important step in understanding and predicting ecosystem dynamics that determine whether restoration goals in “novel” ecosystems are achievable.
A three‐year field experiment of faba bean var. minor effects on soil health and production of pepper grown under conventional farming system
Authors: Aydi Ben Abdallah Rania , Chaieb Nadia , Abdelkrim Souhir , Jabnoun‐Khiareddine Hayfa , Daami‐Remadi Mejda
Published: December 2024

Soil management using natural‐based approaches is becoming essential to minimize the use of synthetic agrochemicals and to ensure sustainability and resiliency of agriculture production. In this study, faba bean (Vicia faba L.) var. minor was used during three consecutive cropping years as green manure to restore soil fertility and biology and to improve the growth, yield and fruit quality parameters of pepper cv. ‘Baklouti’. Following green manuring with faba bean, significant enhancements in the total nitrogen (N), the available phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) contents, the soil organic carbon (SOC) and the soil organic matter (SOM) levels were recorded. The alkaline phosphatase activity was also increased by 30.04% after faba bean var. minor incorporation into the soil in the third year. The β‐glucosidase and urease activities were increased by 26.8%–34.03% and 47.01%–71.7% in faba bean‐amended soil during the three‐year trials. Green manuring also enriched soil with total cultivable bacteria, Pseudomonas fluorescens, actinobacteria, total fungi and Aspergillus spp. as compared to control soil. Pepper growth and yield parameters were improved by 16.5–33.7% and 27.5% following green manure amendment, respectively. Vitamin C content, total soluble solids (TSS) and titrable acidity of green and red pepper fruits were 39.1%–50.7% and 7.2%–13.4% higher in green manured soil than in control. The calcium, potassium and phosphorus contents were significantly 4.7%–9.6%, 16.4%–18.1% and 41.2%–42.9% higher in red fruits of pepper plants grown on green manured soil. The plant growth and yield parameters together with the fruit biochemical and mineral characteristics were positively linked to NPK soil levels, SOC, SOM and soil microbial population's density and activity. This study clearly demonstrated the efficiency of green manuring using faba bean var. minor residues as potential alternative to agrochemicals for the enhancement of soil health status and the improvement of pepper growth, yield and fruit nutritional quality.
The association between gonadectomy and timing of gonadectomy, and the risk of canine cranial cruciate ligament disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Low Daniel , Costa Laura , Hawkesby James , Nardulli Ludovica , Proteasa Adelina , Vallios Vasileios
Published: December 2024

Objective

To determine if gonadectomy in dogs is associated with the risk of cranial cruciate ligament disease (CrCLD) and to quantify the magnitude of the association.

Study design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Sample population

Comparative studies with gonadectomized and entire dogs, with CrCLD as an outcome measure.

Methods

A systematic search of the primary and gray literature was performed. The effect size of the outcome measure was defined as the OR and 95% CI. Subgroup analysis was performed with sex, breed, and age at gonadectomy. A pooled OR (95% CI) was generated from meta‐analysis of relevant studies. Certainty in the body of evidence was rated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) framework.

Results

The literature search yielded 1398 results and 24 relevant studies were included for synthesis. Gonadectomized female (pooled OR = 2.293, 95% CI = 1.768–2.945) and male (pooled OR = 2.117, 95% CI = 1.665–2.691) dogs were both at increased odds of developing CrCLD in comparison with entire female and male dogs, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that gonadectomy at 1 year or less was consistently associated with an increase in odds of developing CrCLD in both sexes. Overall certainty in the evidence was rated as moderate. All included studies were observational and no controlled trials were available.

Conclusion

In data with moderate certainty, gonadectomy is associated with increased odds of developing CrCLD in both sexes, particularly in dogs gonadectomized at 1 year of age or less.

Clinical significance

This study provides an estimate of the true effect size of gonadectomy on the odds of developing CrCLD, which may be useful for clinical decision making surrounding gonadectomy and the timing of gonadectomy.
Bilingual Virtual Toolkit Let's Twist as a Tool to Improve Pronunciation: A Case of Al-Saadah Complex
Authors: Nazir Faridah , Jano Zanariah , Kasdi Abdul Manan
Published: December 2024

This study examined how well the Bilingual Virtual Toolkit (BVT) Let's Twist tool, used in an online Moodle learning environment, addressed pronunciation issues among English and Malay second language learners at Al-Saadah Complex. 18 students' pronunciation abilities were evaluated using a pre-test/post-test design; via qualitative action research utilizing pre-test and post-test. The findings showed that the provided pronunciation variations demonstrated a range of phonological errors and substitutions deemed common among second-language learners of English. Each variation reflected unique challenges influenced by the learners' native dialects and phonetic patterns. 15 of the participants had improved their pronunciation of challenging English sounds like [s] and [t]. Three pupils, however, persisted in having problems, which might be related to underlying speech impediments. The BVT Let's Twist program has shown potential as a useful instrument for enhancing pronunciation, highlighting the significance of incorporating interactive, learner-centered techniques into digital language learning platforms for second language learners.
Proteomic and Morphological Analysis of Bone and Articular Cartilage Changes in Osteoarthritic Rabbits Supplemented with Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN)
Authors: Syed Sulaiman Sharifah Zakiah , Umran Nor Shahira Solehah , Mohamed Suhaila , Abu Jalila , Ng Angela Min Hwei , Lau Benjamin Yii Chung , Lai Kok Song , Ilias Nazhan , Lau Seng Fong , Ajat Mokrish
Published: December 2024

This study is aimed at assessing the effects of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN) on subchondral bone, articular cartilage and the expression of proteins in synovial fluid by micro-CT evaluation and histological analysis. 54 New Zealand white rabbits were induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (8 mg) and divided into four groups: negative control (n=9): non-treated osteoarthritis; positive control (n=15): OA + diclofenac sodium 2 mg/kg daily orally; low dosage (n=15): OA + 75 mg/kg hydrolyzed EBN; and high dosage (n=15): OA + 150 mg/kg hydrolyzed EBN. The joints were harvested and subjected to micro-CT analysis and histological evaluation, and the synovial fluid was subjected to LCMS/MS analysis. Micro-CT analysis showed an increase in bone volume and a decrease in total porosity in the treatment group that showed bone integrity improvement. Histopathological results revealed comparable changes between the positive control group and the EBN treatment group. There was upregulation of proteins involved in the resolution of inflammation and downregulation of proteins associated with the bone resorption process. Morphology evaluation showed that EBN supplementation has a bone-improving effect by inhibiting osteoclastic activity. Protein expression showed chondroprotection and bone improvement through the action of several proteins via various signaling pathways. The morphological and molecular findings suggest the potential use of EBN as beneficial alternative for osteoarthritis treatment by improving bone quality and modulating inflammatory responses.
Evolución de la tasa de suicidios en las ciudades medianas: observaciones sobre las tasas de suicidio en las regiones sanitarias del estado de Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, entre 2010 y 2020
Authors: Stavizki Junior Carlos , Leandro Lima da Silveira Rogério
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo analiza la relación entre la gobernanza regional ejercida por las ciudades medias gauchas y el aumento de las tasas de suicidio. Se seleccionaron las ciudades sede de las Coordinaciones Regionales de Salud de Rio Grande do Sul (CRS/RS), ya que constituyen unidades de referencia en el territorio, además de que concentran la mayor parte del equipamiento de salud pública estatal y federal en la región. Mediante un estudio descriptivo, se analizaron los indicadores de crecimiento de la población, la tasa de suicidio y la tasa de autolesiones entre 2010 y 2020. El objetivo era comprobar si la centralidad de las ciudades medias en relación con la red regional de salud influye en la tendencia de crecimiento de las muertes autoprovocadas en el período. Se encontró que las ciudades medianas son especialmente relevantes para entender el fenómeno a escala regional y que hay una tendencia de aumento de la tasa de suicidio en el territorio gaucho para el próximo período.
Enhanced multistress tolerance of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
with the sugar transporter-like protein Stl1
F427L
mutation in the presence of glycerol
Authors: Liu Zixiong , Shangguan Lingling , Xu Linglong , Zhang Huiyan , Wang Wenxin , Yang Qiao , Zhang Xiaoling , Yao Lan , Yang Shihui , Chen Xiong , Dai Jun
Published: December 2024

During microbial industrial production, microorganisms often face diverse stressors, including organic solvents, high salinity, and high sugar levels. Enhancing microorganism tolerance to such stresses is crucial for producing high-value-added products. Previous studies on the mechanisms of 2-phenylethanol (2-PE) tolerance in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
revealed a potential connection between the sugar transporter-like protein (Stl1) mutation (F427L) and increased tolerance to high sugar and salt stress, suggesting a broader role in multistress tolerance. Herein, we showed that the Stl1
F427L
mutant strain (STL) exhibits significantly improved multistress tolerance in the presence of glycerol. Molecular dynamics simulations indicated that Stl1
F427L
may enhance glycerol molecular binding, resulting in a significant increase in the intracellular glycerol content of the mutant strain STL. Additionally, under multistress conditions, pyruvate and ergosterol levels and catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were significantly increased in the mutant strain STL compared with the control strain 5D. This resulted in a notable increase in cell membrane toughness and a decrease in intracellular reactive oxygen species levels. These findings highlight the mechanism by which Stl1
F427L
enhances
S. cerevisiae
tolerance to multistress. Importantly, they provide novel insights into and methodologies for improving the resilience of industrial microorganisms.

IMPORTANCE

Stl1
F427L
exhibits improved strain tolerance to multistress when adding glycerol, may enhance glycerol molecular binding, and can make a significant increase in intracellular glycerol content. It can reduce reactive oxygen species levels and increase ergosterol content. This paper provides novel insights and methods to get robust industrial microorganisms.
Wind-Driven Sea Spectra Resilience as a Statistical Attractor
Authors: Pushkarev A. N. , Geogjaev V. V. , Badulin S. I.
Published: December 2024

We have observed numerically the resilience phenomenon for ocean wind-driven waves, where the wave spectra return to their original self-similar form after a strong perturbation. This self-similar behavior is seen as the manifestation of a statistical attractor associated with generalized spectra of Kolmogorov–Zakharov. We have confirmed this interpretation through numerical simulations of random water wave field within the kinetic (Hasselmann) equation. This equation with specific source functions similar to those of conventional wave forecasting models exhibits families of exact self-similar solutions. These source functions minimize the “non-self-similar” background, allowing us to evaluate the “clean rates” of wave spectra resilience. We use the indices of the exact self-similar solutions as parameters for the attractors of numerical solutions in a two-dimensional phase space.
Pupil sparing oculomotor nerve palsy with concomitant Horner syndrome as a presentation of mantle cell lymphoma relapse
Authors: Salih Fayad Mustafa Elhadi , Lee Andrew G , Ayto Robert , Fashtali Nansi
Published: December 2024

A woman in her 70s, with a background of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), presented with headache and diplopia. Neuro-ophthalmic examination revealed a combination of Horner syndrome and ipsilateral pupil sparing oculomotor nerve palsy (ONP). Cerebrospinal fluid immunophenotyping demonstrated CD5 positive clonal B lymphocytes, consistent with neurological involvement by MCL. Imaging of the brain and orbits was normal, but a cervical mass was seen along the course of the sympathetic chain accounting for the Horner syndrome. She was treated with intrathecal chemotherapy with improvement in symptoms and resolution of ophthalmoplegia but was left with residual anisocoria and mild ptosis. This presentation (concomitant Horner and ipsilateral ONP) is rare and typically localises to the ipsilateral cavernous sinus, which appeared radiologically normal in this case.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder triggered by news reports of contaminated food
Authors: Masiran Ruziana , Abdul Latib Farah Adiba Maliha
Published: December 2024

We present a case of a woman in her early 30s who developed severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms following exposure to news reports about instant noodles allegedly contaminated with a carcinogenic substance. The news triggered an overwhelming fear of ingesting harmful food associated with persistent and intrusive thoughts about contamination in this patient. As a result, she adopted extreme food avoidance behaviours and restricted her oral intake for 2 weeks, causing significant weight loss and anxiety. Following a visit to her psychiatrist and a prescription for a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, her eating behaviours improved, and she could take her food without overwhelming fear. This case shows how OCD may mimic eating disorders and highlights how food-related obsessions can have a severe impact on health.
Sudden vision loss in pregnancy: Wernicke’s encephalopathy in a patient with hyperemesis gravidarum
Authors: Subramanian Soundhar M , Mendonca Teena Mariet , K Srinivas Shreya , Rodrigues Gladys Reshma
Published: December 2024

Wernicke's encephalopathy, the acute phase of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is characterised as a triad of altered mental status, ocular signs and ataxia. Our patient presented with hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a rare aetiology of Wernicke’s encephalopathy. The patient did not have any oculomotor abnormalities, which are more common and classically described in Wernicke’s triad. The sudden visual loss in both eyes can be attributed to acute optic neuropathy. Our case highlights a unique ophthalmic presentation with retinal haemorrhages and optic disc oedema as unusual manifestations of Wernicke’s encephalopathy. The dramatic and complete reversal of visual symptoms within 48 hours after starting parenteral thiamine retrospectively supports the diagnosis.
Immunoglobulin G4-related disease of the testis masquerading as a testicular mass: a clinical dilemma
Authors: Agarwal Keshav , Jain Siddharth , Kaushal Seema
Published: December 2024

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is a rare immune-mediated fibro-inflammatory disorder with many clinical manifestations. Most commonly affected sites include the pancreas, salivary glands, kidneys, lachrymal glands, biliary tree, aorta and retroperitoneum; testicular involvement is a rare entity. This report describes a man in his 20s who presented with a persistent painless mass in his left testis. After a thorough examination he underwent orchiectomy to rule out any malignancy of the testis. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were suggestive of IgG4-related disease. Systemic evaluation showed normal IgG4 levels with no other site of involvement. This is a unique presentation of this rare diagnosis and remains a diagnostic challenge which is difficult to distinguish from the more common testicular malignancy. We conducted a review of the current literature regarding IgG4-related disease to complement the case discussion and provide a comprehensive review regarding this diagnostic dilemma.
Assessing the acceptability to general practitioners of the French College of General Medicine’s recommendations on considering patients’ social situations: a Delphi study
Authors: Richard Bastien , Moussaoui Sohela , Bonello Kim , Skendi Mariela , Duguet Théo , Figoni Hugo , Ibanez Gladys
Published: December 2024

Background

Social determinants of health (SDH) impact the health status of individuals around the world. General practitioners (GPs) can take into account the social situation of patients in their care practice. To this end, the College of General Medicine (CGM) issued recommendations in 2022 to propose 100 methods of action.

Objective

To assess the acceptability to GPs of the recommendations set out by the CGM to improve the consideration of the social situation of patients in consultations.

Design

Quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study, using the Delphi method.

Setting

The data were collected through the administration of a questionnaire to GPs practising in France.

Participants

Participants were recruited by email from the academic network of Sorbonne University. The only criteria for inclusion were to be a GP from Sorbonne University and to complete the full questionnaire. 25 participants were included.

Interventions

Proposals were grouped into 24 themes. Participants had to rate the acceptability of these themes by rating their degree of relevance and degree of applicability on a Likert scale.

Primary outcome

The primary outcome was the acceptability by GPs of proposals to take into account the SDH. Acceptability was defined as relevance with a median greater than or equal to 7 and applicability with a median greater than or equal to 7, in the absence of disagreements.

Results

After 2 rounds, 12 themes were accepted: 5 addressed interventions at the individual level (eg, ‘understanding the context of patients’ lives and identifying social difficulties’), 4 addressed interventions at the organisational level (eg, ‘communication actions aimed at vulnerable patient populations’) and 3 addressed interventions at territorial level (municipality and national). Relevance was very good for all of them, with median responses ranging from 8 to 9 and with no disagreement. Applicability was more mixed, with 12 themes deemed applicable. Justifications were provided through participants’ comments. Proposals were made to improve the applicability.

Conclusion

This study explored how SDH could be taken into account through the perspective of GPs in the context of the CGM’s recommendations. While all proposals were deemed relevant, some were not applicable. The findings emphasise the need for adaptations in the organisation of the practice, of care pathways and more generally, in the organisation of the health system. Those actions require the commitment of professionals and political actors.
Comprehensive spinal correction rehabilitation (CSCR) study: a randomised controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of CSCR in children with early-onset idiopathic scoliosis on spinal deformity, somatic appearance, functional status and quality of life in Shanghai, China
Authors: Li Yingxian , Li Xin , Fan Qimeng , Liang Juping , Zhang Tongtong , Chen Zhengquan , Guo Haibin , Cai Lili , Zhou Xuan , Du Qing
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Presently, the physiotherapy scoliosis-specific exercise recommended by the International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment guidelines is primarily advised for adolescents with scoliosis, and there is a lack of individualised and precise exercise therapy for children with early-onset idiopathic scoliosis (EOIS), whose bodies are in the nascent stages of development. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the efficacy of comprehensive spinal correction rehabilitation in treating EOIS.

Methods and analysis

This study will be designed as a randomised controlled trial, and the subjects participating in the study will consist of 122 EOIS patients between the ages of 7–10 years. Subjects will be randomly assigned to an experimental group (n=61) and a control group (n=61). Both groups will be treated for 6 months, with the experimental group receiving comprehensive spinal correction rehabilitation (including specific exercise therapy, balance and stability training, breathing training, strength training, home-based exercise and bracing) and the control group receiving core stability training. Enrolled subjects will be evaluated at the initial visit and after 6 months of treatment, and data will be processed and analysed after collecting data from both evaluations. The primary outcome index is the major curvature Cobb angle, and the secondary outcome indices are the angle of trunk rotation, plumb line distance, the Trunk Aesthetic Clinical Evaluation index, forced vital capacity and the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire.

Ethics and dissemination

The current study received ethical approval from the Xinhua Hospital Ethics Committee Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine (XHEC-C-2023-108-3). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants and their guardians. Any interim analyses and full results will be published in an international peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

The study protocol was registered at www. Clinical trials. gov (number identifier: ChiCTR2300078359).
Chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy in patients with gastric cancer: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Han Yihui , Yang Wenming , Meng Yang , Cai Zhaolun , Zhang Bo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The integration of chemotherapy and immunotherapy is continually making new advances in the field of gastric cancer treatment and has already become the new standard of care for the disease. However, few systematic reviews cover a wide array of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), antibody types and therapeutic modalities (perioperative or systemic) in this domain. Our aim is to incorporate the most recent clinical studies on combination therapy for the treatment of gastric cancer into a systematic review. This will comprehensively assess the benefits and drawbacks for patients with gastric cancer and will guide future research in this area. Ultimately, this will provide evidence-based support for patients with gastric cancer.

Methods and analysis

This protocol for a systematic review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis – Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. We will conduct a search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases from database inception, all retrieved literature will be screened by two authors in two rounds. Inclusion criteria will be randomised clinical trials, reported in English, that compare immunotherapy-combined therapy with chemotherapy alone in the perioperative and systematic first-line treatment of gastric cancer. The primary outcomes will be progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes will include objective response rate (ORR), event-free survival (EFS), disease-free survival (DFS), pathologic complete response (pCR), major pathologic response (MPR), and the R0 resection rate. Heterogeneity and publication bias of included literature will be investigated. Where included literatures allow, we will conduct meta-analyses and subgroup analyses to further refine the pros and cons of combined therapy, providing evidence-based foundations for subsequent research.

Ethics and dissemination

This work is a review based on existing literature and no ethical review is required. Dissemination of the results will occur via academic journal publication, conference presentations, and multiple media platforms.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023477353.
Can SGLT-2 inhibitors improve cardiovascular outcomes and ensure safety for patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure in Thailand? A real-world multicentre retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kongmalai Tanawan , Tansawet Amarit , Pattanaprateep Oraluck , Ratanatharathorn Cholatid , Amornritvanich Porntep , Looareesuwan Panu , Boonwatcharapai Burin , Khunakorncharatphong Anon , Nimitphong Hataikarn , Srinonprasert Varalak , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess the real-world effectiveness and safety of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) and heart failure (HF) and to evaluate the associated risks of adverse events.

Design

A retrospective cohort study using propensity score analysis to control confounding variables.

Setting

Data were collected from the electronic health records of two large tertiary care hospitals in Thailand over a 12-year period (2010–2022).

Participants

Adults aged 18 years and older with a diagnosis of T2D and HF were included in the study. Patients who received SGLT2i for a minimum of 3 months were compared with those in a non-SGLT2i group. Participants with a diagnosis of HF that preceded their diagnosis of T2D were excluded from the analysis.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was heart failure hospitalisation (HFH). Secondary outcomes included non-fatal stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), all-cause mortality and adverse events (urinary tract infections, hypoglycaemia and acute kidney injury).

Results

A total of 11 758 patients were included in the study, with a median follow-up of 2.44 (IQR: 0.72–5.02) years. After applying inverse probability of treatment weighting, covariates were balanced, ensuring the validity of the treatment effect model’s assumptions. SGLT2i use was associated with a 59% reduction in HFH (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.61), a 54% reduction in stroke (HR 0.46, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.63), a 51% reduction in MI (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.67) and a 76% reduction in in-hospital all-cause mortality (HR 0.24, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.42). Additionally, SGLT2i use was associated with fewer adverse events, including lower rates of urinary tract infections and hypoglycaemia, compared with the non-SGLT2i group.

Conclusions

SGLT2i significantly improved cardiovascular outcomes in patients with T2D and HF in a real-world clinical setting. These findings support the incorporation of SGLT2i in the management of high-risk patients with T2D and HF. Further research is warranted to explore long-term outcomes and barriers to SGLT2i prescription in routine practice.
Spatial patterns and MRI-based radiomic prediction of high peritumoral tertiary lymphoid structure density in hepatocellular carcinoma: a multicenter study
Authors: Long Shichao , Li Mengsi , Chen Juan , Zhong Linhui , Abudulimu Aerzuguli , Zhou Lan , Liu Wenguang , Pan Deng , Dai Ganmian , Fu Kai , Chen Xiong , Pei Yigang , Li Wenzheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) within the tumor microenvironment have been associated with cancer prognosis and therapeutic response. However, the immunological pattern of a high peritumoral TLS (pTLS) density and its clinical potential in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain poor. This study aimed to elucidate biological differences related to pTLS density and develop a radiomic classifier for predicting pTLS density in HCC, offering new insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

Spatial transcriptomics (n=4) and RNA sequencing data (n=952) were used to identify critical regulators of pTLS density and evaluate their prognostic significance in HCC. Baseline MRI images from 660 patients with HCC who had undergone surgery treatment between October 2015 and January 2023 were retrospectively recruited for model development and validation. This included training (n=307) and temporal validation (n=76) cohorts from Xiangya Hospital, and external validation cohorts from three independent hospitals (n=277). Radiomic features were extracted from intratumoral and peritumoral regions of interest and analyzed using machine learning algorithms to develop a predictive classifier. The classifier’s performance was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC), with prognostic and predictive value assessed across four independent cohorts and in a dual-center outcome cohort of 41 patients who received immunotherapy.

Results

Patients with HCC and a high pTLS density experienced prolonged median overall survival (p<0.05) and favorable immunotherapy response (p=0.03). Moreover, immune infiltration by mature B cells was observed in the high pTLS density region. Spatial pseudotime analysis and immunohistochemistry staining revealed that expansion of pTLS in HCC was associated with elevated CXCL9 and CXCL10 co-expression. We developed an optimal radiomic-based classifier with excellent discrimination for predicting pTLS density, achieving an AUC of 0.91 (95% CI 0.87, 0.94) in the external validation cohort. This classifier also exhibited promising stratification ability in terms of overall survival (p<0.01), relapse-free survival (p<0.05), and immunotherapy response (p<0.05).

Conclusion

We identified key regulators of pTLS density in patients with HCC and proposed a non-invasive radiomic classifier capable of assisting in stratification for prognosis and treatment.