bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CEO's Early‐life Experience of Disasters and Corporate Environmental Performance
Authors: Liao Shushu , Nguyen Nhut H. , Truong Cameron
Published: January 2025

We investigate the nexus between the early‐life disaster experiences of chief executive officers (CEOs) and their firms’ environmental performance metrics. We hypothesize that first‐hand experience of the adversities of natural disasters in the formative years of a CEO can catalyze a transformation in their environmental cognizance and perspective. This transformation is postulated to have a beneficial influence on their corporations’ strategic frameworks for environmental risk mitigation. Our results show that entities steered by CEOs exposed to disasters in their early life have fewer incidences of environmental issues. These findings remain consistent even when controlling for other factors or using alternative methods. We suggest that CEOs with early disaster experience have an enhanced perception of risk ramifications, which inculcates a prudential approach to decision making, potentially heightening the environmental risk profile of their enterprises.
Employing a Haemodynamic Score to Predict Acute Kidney Injury in Infants With Patent Ductus Arteriosus
Authors: Wildes Dermot , Mullaly Rachel , Costigan Caoimhe , Awan Atif , El‐Khuffash Afif , Boyle Michael A.
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study hypothesised that infants with a haemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) as defined by a validated score have a higher incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted including infants < 29 weeks' gestation, born at the Rotunda Hospital. The El‐Khuffash patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) severity score was applied following an echocardiographic assessment. Mann Whitney‐U and χ2 tests were utilised to assess for association with AKI.

Results

We report a cohort of n = 86 infants with PDA of a mean (standard deviation) gestation of 27 (1) weeks and birth weight of 957 g (235 g). Ten (11.6%) of infants developed AKI. Birth weight, gestation, death‐by‐discharge, high‐risk PDA score, PDA treatment, and ibuprofen receipt were associated with AKI.

The presence of a high‐risk PDA score was independently associated with the occurrence of AKI. Therapeutic intervention and ibuprofen use proved significant in their associations with AKI.

Conclusion

A high‐risk El‐Khuffash PDA score is predictive of AKI in our cohort. Ductal diameter in isolation is ineffective as a measure of haemodynamic significance in the context of AKI prediction. Both PDA treatment and ibuprofen‐use are associated with an increased risk of AKI. Further work to validate the use of this score for AKI prediction is warranted.
Deacetylation of BAP31 by sirtuin 2 attenuates apoptosis of hepatocytes induced by endoplasmic reticulum stress, in chronic alcoholic liver injury
Authors: Wang Sai , Wang Yufeng , Shan Wen , Li Guoyang , Yan Ran , Wang Zhecheng , Zhao Yan , Yao Jihong , Zhang Ning
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is a crucial pathogenic mechanism in alcoholic liver disease (ALD). B‐cell receptor‐associated protein 31 (BAP31) can regulate ER homeostasis and anti‐apoptosis, but the function and regulation of BAP31 in ALD are unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether BAP31 deacetylation by sirtuin 2 could attenuate ER stress and apoptosis during ALD and to explore whether carnosol could alleviate ALD through the sirtuin 2/BAP31 pathway.

Experimental Approach

A mouse model of ALD was established by feeding mice with alcoholic liquid chow. In vitro, AML‐12 cells were stimulated with alcohol. The therapeutic efficacy of carnosol in protecting mice from ALD pathogenesis was evaluated.

Key Results

Treatment with carnosol protected mice against ALD and attenuated hepatocyte ER stress and apoptosis. Carnosol up‐regulated sirtuin 2 expression, and sirtuin 2knockdown abolished the protective effect of carnosol during ALD. Moreover, sirtuin 2 knockdown reduced BAP31 expression. Carnosol‐mediated BAP31 up‐regulation was abolished upon knockdown of sirtuin 2. Mechanistically, sirtuin 2 selectively regulates the deacetylation of BAP31 at K158.

Conclusion and Implications

Taken together, the present study shows for the first time that carnosol exerts its protective efficacy through facilitating sirtuin 2‐mediated deacetylation of BAP31 at K158 to attenuate hepatocyte ER stress and apoptosis during ALD. These results provide new therapeutic targets and approaches for combating chronic ALD.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Aryl Pyrazolopyrimidines as Toll‐Like Receptor 7 Agonists
Authors: Kim Ji Hwan , Lee Youngshim , Ahn Seunghyun , Koh Dongsoo , Lim Yoongho , Lee Young Han , Bae Dong‐Ho , Shin Soon Young
Published: January 2025

Compounds containing pyrazolopyrimidine scaffolds were designed and synthesized as toll‐like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonists. Thirty‐three compounds, including 22 novel compounds, were prepared, and their structures were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. TLR7 agonist activity was determined in HEK‐Blue hTLR7 reporter cells. Among the compounds tested, 2‐((4‐methoxyphenyl)amino)‐7‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidine‐3‐carbonitrile showed the highest activity, and further in vitro biological experiments were performed using this compound. Treatment with the title compound activated the TLR7‐mediated NF‐κB pathway, triggering the IRAK4‐IKKα/β‐IκBα‐p65 NF‐κB signaling cascade, which led to an increase in the expression of NF‐κB‐regulated innate cytokines such as TNFα and IL‐1β in RAW264.7 macrophages. These findings suggest that the title compound acts as a TLR7 agonist and enhances the innate immune response.
Young Parents' Small Stories of Empowerment in an EU‐Funded Intervention
Authors: Nieminen Irja , Vilppola Johanna Inkeri , Väkiparta Tapio Petteri , Huttu‐Hiltunen Seppo Ilmari , Hiitti Milla Maria
Published: January 2025

Parental empowerment is a key value in family services and youth care. It is also essential in family‐centred services to achieve sustainability of treatment outcomes. Research has demonstrated the need for a deeper understanding of the mechanism of parental empowerment. This study explored young parents' experiences of a European Union (EU)‐funded intervention and evaluated the extent how the intervention supported the parents' empowerment. The data consisted of 16 semi‐structured interviews with young parents and notes from the first session of the intervention. The participants were residents of one province in Finland. The analysis of data used the ‘small stories’ approach. The participants' experiences of empowerment were assessed with the help of small stories identified in the interview data. The Empowerment Process Model was used to interpret how the experiences described by the interviewees empowered them. According to the results, participation in the intervention initiated the empowerment process of young parents. However, more interaction between a person and the wider community is needed for more long‐term outcomes in parental empowerment. Recommendations are provided for professionals working with young parents.
Exploring experiences of talk therapies among gay and bisexual men seeking to reduce or abstain from using crystal methamphetamine in the context of chemsex
Authors: Freestone Jack , Xiao Bo Justin , Siefried Krista J. , Bourne Adam , Ezard Nadine , Maher Lisa , Stirling Robert , Degenhardt Louisa , Varma Rick , Prestage Garrett , Hammoud Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Some gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (GBMSM) who use drugs to enhance sex (chemsex/party and play) may experience harms and seek talk therapies. GBMSM who practice chemsex may not access drug services because of anticipated stigma and the perception that these services lack chemsex expertise. Barriers to services are documented, however, little is known about the service experiences of chemsex engaged GBMSM.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 24 participants reporting current practice of sexualised use of methamphetamine and/or gamma hydroxybutyrate. Interviews explored experiences of counselling and psychology services, participant's treatment goals and challenges. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed in NVIVO14 with a qualitative description methodology.

Results

Most in our study sought to reduce the frequency of methamphetamine use and used methamphetamine only in sexual contexts. When engaging with counsellors and psychologists in alcohol and other drug or mental health services for the general adult population, most censored the sexual drivers and types of sexual behaviours incumbent in their methamphetamine use. Participants' reliance on drugs for sex was spoken about as a major barrier to reducing methamphetamine. Sexual self‐censorship within services inhibited participants' abilities to access meaningful support and achieve treatment goals.

Discussion and Conclusions

Counsellor and psychologists working with GBMSM around drug use, must ask about context of drug use and sex. Training and supervision around sexual therapies for those working alongside GBMSM who practice chemsex may be beneficial. Research on treatment approaches to support the sexual wellbeing of people who practice chemsex is required.
Do Children's Brains Function Differently During Book Reading and Screen Time? A fNIRS Study
Authors: Pecukonis Meredith , Yücel Meryem , Lee Henry , Knox Cory , Boas David A. , Tager‐Flusberg Helen
Published: January 2025

Previous research suggests that book reading and screen time have contrasting effects on language and brain development. However, few studies have explicitly investigated whether children's brains function differently during these two activities. The present study used functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain response in 28 typically developing preschool‐aged children (36–72 months old) during two conditions—a book reading condition, in which children listened to a story read by a live experimenter while viewing words and pictures in a book, and a screen time condition, in which children listened to a story that was played via an audio recording while viewing words and pictures on a screen. Analyses revealed significant activation in the right temporal parietal junction (TPJ) during the book reading condition only. Across regions of interest (ROIs), including the inferior and middle frontal gyrus (IMFG), the superior and middle temporal gyrus (SMTG), and the TPJ, brain response during the book reading condition was greater in right‐lateralized ROIs than left‐lateralized ROIs, while brain response during the screen time condition was similar across left and right ROIs. Findings suggest that the lateralization of preschool‐aged children's brain function within these ROIs differs during book reading and screen time, which provides a possible neurobiological explanation for why book reading and screen time impact language development in such different ways. Findings provide important insights into how children's brains function during different types of activities (dyadic vs. solitary) and when using different types of media (print vs. digital).
Cerebral palsy and perinatal mortality in children born in Norway to immigrant mothers
Authors: Sigholt Maria Wiedswang , Andersen Guro L. , Lydersen Stian , Vestrheim Thomsen Liv Cecilie , Vik Torstein , Hollung Sandra Julsen
Published: January 2025

Aim

To compare the prevalence and clinical characteristics of cerebral palsy (CP), and perinatal mortality, in children born to non‐immigrant mothers with children born to immigrant mothers.

Method

This was a registry‐based cross‐sectional study. Data on children born from 2000 to 2016 were extracted from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway and linked to the Norwegian Quality and Surveillance Registry for Cerebral Palsy. The mother's country of birth was categorized into three groups: non‐immigrant (born in Norway); immigrant from high‐income countries (HICs); and immigrant from low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) (born abroad giving birth in Norway). Birth prevalence of CP and prevalence of perinatal mortality per 1000 live births were calculated. Odds ratios (ORs) for CP among live‐born children of non‐immigrant mothers compared to mothers from HICs and LMICs were calculated using logistic regression, both unadjusted and adjusted for each risk factor for CP. Pearson χ2 tests were used to compare the proportions of clinical characteristics.

Results

The prevalence of CP among non‐immigrant mothers was 2.11 per 1000 live births, 1.44 among mothers from HICs, and 1.71 among mothers from LMICs. The OR for CP in mothers from HICs was 0.68 and 0.81 in mothers from LMICs. Despite mothers from LMICs having higher proportions of consanguinity and lower folate intake, and their children having lower Apgar scores, the ORs for CP were unchanged after adjusting for these. Yet, children born to mothers from LMICs had higher perinatal mortality; their children with CP had higher proportions of intellectual disability.

Interpretation

The lower birth prevalence of CP among children born to mothers from LMICs was unexpected. Yet, children born to mothers from LMICs had higher perinatal mortality, which could impact the number of live‐born children with CP.
Geographies of Digital Nomadism: A Research Agenda
Authors: Sciuva Emanuele
Published: January 2025

Over the past decade, digital nomadism has gained increasing prominence in both academic and public discourse, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The focus has shifted from just the nomads themselves to also considering the destinations they inhabit and the broader spatial implications of their movement. This review sets out a research agenda based on emerging discussions about the geographies of digital nomadism, organized around four main thematic areas. The first cluster of scholarly works examines how digital nomads are understood at the crossroads of work‐life, leisure and lifestyle mobility perspectives. The second part includes studies that explore how states are crafting migration regulations and programs to attract digital nomads, along with the difficulties that nomads face in navigating these evolving regulatory landscapes. The third cluster of scholarship investigates the intricate interplay between digital nomadism and housing, focussing on the rise of a medium‐term rental market and diverse housing solutions tailored to digital nomads, while cautioning against the potential gentrifying effects of these emerging markets. Finally, the fourth segment of research examines the socio‐economic infrastructural changes arising from the growing presence of digital nomadism within urban settlements. This includes their role in fostering local innovation as well as their influence in local economic and labour restructuring. The review concludes with a proposed agenda for future geographic research.
Identification of intraductal‐to‐invasive spatial transitions in prostate cancer: proposal for a new unifying model on intraductal carcinogenesis
Authors: Rijstenberg Lucia L , Harikumar Hridya , Verhoef Esther I , van den Bosch Thierry P P , Choiniere Roselyne , van Royen Martin E , van Leenders Geert J L H
Published: January 2025

Aims

Intraductal carcinoma (IDC) is an independent pathological parameter for adverse prostate cancer (PCa) outcome. Although most IDC are believed to originate from retrograde spread of established PCa, rare IDC cases may represent precursor lesions. The actual transition areas between intraductal and invasive cancer, however, have not yet been identified. Our objective was to identify intraductal‐invasive PCa transitions using 2‐ and 3‐dimensional microscopy.

Methods and results

Seventy‐five samples from 46 radical prostatectomies with PCa were immunohistochemically stained for basal cell keratins. In 35 samples, atypical glands that were indistinguishable from invasive adenocarcinoma (IAC) had focal 34BE12‐positive basal cells. These IAC‐like glands were present adjacent to IDC and prostatic intra‐epithelial neoplasia (PIN) in 21 of 45 (46.7%) and 16 of 58 (27.6%) cases, respectively. Whole‐mount confocal imaging of immunofluorescent Ker5/18 double‐stained and cleared 1‐mm‐thick intact tissues revealed spatial continuity between IDC, IAC‐like glands and IAC with a gradual loss of basal cells. In 24 of 35 (68.6%) samples more than one IAC‐like focus (median 3.0) was present.

Conclusions

We identified areas of spatial transition between PIN, IDC and IAC, characterised by remnant basal cells in IAC‐like glands. Based on the coexistence of IDC and PIN, the gradual loss of basal cells in IAC‐like glands and IAC‐like glands’ multifocality, we propose a novel hypothesis on intraductal carcinogenesis, which we term ‘repetitive invasion, precursor progression’ (RIPP).
Spider diversity in a disturbed forest landscape highlights the importance of management heterogeneity
Authors: Plath Eva , Böhme Wilma , Fischer Denise , Griebel Laura , Jochims Kristina , Schreek Katharina , Thiem Christoph , Fischer Klaus
Published: January 2025

Anthropogenic climate and land use change pose threats to biodiversity. For example, timber production is altering forest ecosystems worldwide, often resulting in climate‐sensitive monocultures. In central Europe, ongoing climate change has resulted in a large‐scale dieback of spruce plantations, raising concerns about the appropriate management of such sites.

Here, we investigated the direct and indirect effects of forest management on epigeal spider diversity in a disturbed, spruce‐dominated forest landscape in western Germany. We compared five management strategies and evaluated the impact of various environmental variables on taxonomic spider diversity as well as community and functional composition.

Forest management directly affected spider diversity, with lowest values found in spruce stands and highest in salvage‐logged and succession sites. Spider abundance was negatively related to canopy closure, and spider diversity positively to deadwood occurrence on‐site and at the landscape scale. Community composition differed strongly among management regimes, with the highest number of forest specialists occurring in deadwood stands and of open landscape species on clear cuts.

Our results highlight the role of non‐intervention sites as refuges for forest spiders in a highly disturbed forest landscape, while salvage‐logged sites showed the highest overall spider diversity. Based on the occurrence of highly distinct spider assemblages among management regimes, our results stress the importance of landscape heterogeneity for spider diversity.

Forest management should therefore be planned at a landscape rather than stand‐scale. By applying intervention and non‐intervention strategies, large‐scale spruce monocultures may be transformed into diverse forest landscapes with beneficial effects for both biodiversity and forestry.
Left Bundle Branch Pacing Impact on QRS Amplitude in Different Pacing Voltages
Authors: Wang Shengchan , Geng Jie , Yang Wen , Jiang Zhixin , Zhou Xiujuan , Jiang Wanying , Zhang Shigeng , Shan Qijun
Published: January 2025

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) emerged as a novel physiological pacing modality that improves clinical outcomes. This study aimed to explore the impact of LBBP on QRS wave amplitude (RWA).

Methods

This prospective observational study included patients with complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB) and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) indication, as well as patients with QRSd < 120 ms and pacemaker indication. During the procedure, when the LBBP lead reached the target site, 12‐lead ECGs at baseline and 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 times the pacing thresholds and 3.5 V (pacemaker default value) pacing were recorded, and RWA values were measured accordingly. The absolute values of I + aVL, II + III+ aVF, and V1 + V2 + V3 + V4 + V5 + V6 RWA were defined as X‐, Y‐, and Z‐axis ΣRWA.

Results

A total of 195 consecutive patients (50 CLBBB and 145 narrow QRS) were enrolled (69.7 ± 10.3 years, 52.3% male). Compared with the baseline, LBBP significantly increased X‐ and Y‐axis ΣRWA independent of pacing voltage in CLBBB (ΔX/Y‐axis 0.49 ± 0.78 mV, p < 0.0001/0.61 ± 1.24 mV, p = 0.001) and narrow QRS group (ΔX/Y‐axis 0.88 ± 0.61 mV, p < 0.0001/0.91 ± 1.05 mV, p < 0.0001); LBBP significantly reduced Z‐axis ΣRWA in CLBBB patients (ΔZ‐axis −2.64 ± 3.67 mV, p < 0.0001) but not in narrow QRS group (ΔZ‐axis −0.14 ± 1.87 mV, p = 0.36). LBBP significantly improved cardiac function at 1 week of follow‐up.

Conclusions

LBBP significantly increased X/Y‐axis ΣRWA independent of pacing voltage in CLBBB and narrow QRS patients. LBBP significantly reduced Z‐axis ΣRWA in CLBBB but not in narrow QRS patients. Whether these ΣRWA changes, through enhancing whole myocardial contractility, have a synergistic effect with LBBP synchronization to further improve cardiac function remains to be investigated.
Direct and indirect genetic effects on early neurodevelopmental traits
Authors: Hegemann Laura , Eilertsen Espen , Hagen Pettersen Johanne , Corfield Elizabeth C. , Cheesman Rosa , Frach Leonard , Daae Bjørndal Ludvig , Ask Helga , St Pourcain Beate , Havdahl Alexandra , Hannigan Laurie J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Neurodevelopmental conditions are highly heritable. Recent studies have shown that genomic heritability estimates can be confounded by genetic effects mediated via the environment (indirect genetic effects). However, the relative importance of direct versus indirect genetic effects on early variability in traits related to neurodevelopmental conditions is unknown.

Methods

The sample included up to 24,692 parent‐offspring trios from the Norwegian MoBa cohort. We use Trio‐GCTA to estimate latent direct and indirect genetic effects on mother‐reported neurodevelopmental traits at age of 3 years (restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, inattention, hyperactivity, language, social, and motor development). Further, we investigate to what extent direct and indirect effects are attributable to common genetic variants associated with autism, ADHD, developmental dyslexia, educational attainment, and cognitive ability using polygenic scores (PGS) in regression modeling.

Results

We find evidence for contributions of direct and indirect latent common genetic effects to inattention (direct: explaining 4.8% of variance, indirect: 6.7%) hyperactivity (direct: 1.3%, indirect: 9.6%), and restricted and repetitive behaviors (direct: 0.8%, indirect: 7.3%). Direct effects best explained variation in social and communication, language, and motor development (5.1%–5.7%). Direct genetic effects on inattention were captured by PGS for ADHD, educational attainment, and cognitive ability, whereas direct genetic effects on language development were captured by cognitive ability, educational attainment, and autism PGS. Indirect genetic effects on neurodevelopmental traits were primarily captured by educational attainment and/or cognitive ability PGS.

Conclusions

Results were consistent with differential contributions to neurodevelopmental traits in early childhood from direct and indirect genetic effects. Indirect effects were particularly important for hyperactivity and restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests and may be linked to genetic variation associated with cognition and educational attainment. Our findings illustrate the importance of within‐family methods for disentangling genetic processes that influence early neurodevelopmental traits, even when identifiable associations are small.
Mothers’ Experiences of Institutional Betrayal During Childbirth and their Postpartum Mental Health Outcomes: Evidence From a Survey of New Mothers in the United States
Authors: Kulkarni Manali , Fielding‐Singh Priya
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the relationship between the experience of institutional betrayal (IB) during childbirth and postpartum mental health.

Methods

Women who had given birth within the last 3 years in the United States as of June 2021 were recruited via Qualtrics to complete an online survey. Participants (N = 588) answered questions about their birth experiences, including adverse medical events and experiences of IB. Multiple logistic regressions examined whether experiencing one or more types of IB was associated with receiving a diagnosis of a postpartum mental health condition, controlling for other theoretically relevant covariates.

Results

More than one‐third (39%) of respondents experienced one or more types of IB during childbirth, with a mean (SD) of 1.7 (0.47) and maximum of 2. Experiencing IB increased the odds of a postpartum mental health condition diagnosis by 2.86 (95% CI, 1.63‐5.05; P < .001).

Discussion

The findings suggest that experiencing IB may be one mechanism driving negative postpartum mental health outcomes. Health care providers and policymakers should be aware of the role that IB can play in women's birth experiences and consider how strategies to decrease instances of IB during childbirth may improve postpartum mental health.
Interventions for Compassion Fatigue, Burnout, and Secondary Traumatic Stress in Nurses: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhang Huiling , Xia Zheyuan , Yu Shuang , Shi Hui , Meng Yahui , Dator Wireen Leila
Published: January 2025

This study uses network meta‐analysis to evaluate the relative effectiveness of different interventions (behavioral, psychological, and comprehensive) in alleviating compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress, as well as in improving compassion satisfaction among nurses, aiming to provide evidence‐based insights for enhancing nurses' mental health and care quality. Compassion fatigue in nurses negatively affects their mental health, patient care quality, and healthcare efficiency. Various interventions (psychological, behavioral, and integrated) target this issue, but evidence on their effectiveness is inconclusive. Network meta‐analysis. Randomized controlled trials on compassion fatigue interventions in nurses were reviewed, focusing on outcomes like compassion fatigue, satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Behavioral training significantly reduced compassion fatigue and improved compassion satisfaction. Comprehensive interventions were most effective in reducing burnout, while psychological interventions alleviated secondary trauma. Targeted, multifaceted interventions, especially behavioral and comprehensive strategies, effectively manage compassion fatigue, improving nurses' mental health, job satisfaction, and care quality.
Two homologous Zn2Cys6 transcription factors play crucial roles in host specificity of Colletotrichum orbiculare by controlling the expression of cucurbit‐specific virulence effectors
Authors: Zhang Ru , Inoue Yoshihiro , Singkaravanit‐Ogawa Suthitar , Ogawa Taiki , Mise Kazuyuki , Mine Akira , Takano Yoshitaka
Published: January 2025

Fungal plant pathogens preferentially express a set of effector genes at specific infection stages to successfully colonize the host. However, it remains unclear how effector gene expression is regulated during host infection.

This study identified a Zn2Cys6 transcription factor, TFV1 (Transcription Factor for Virulence 1), whose deletion weakened virulence of Colletotrichum orbiculare on its cucurbit hosts. The additional deletion of a TFV1 paralog gene, TVL1 (TFV1‐like 1), resulted in a further reduction in virulence on the cucurbits. Notably, TFV1 TVL1 double mutants retained wild‐type virulence on the Solanaceae host Nicotiana benthamiana.

Expression of putative effector genes, including four cucurbit host‐specific virulence effectors (effector protein for cucurbit infection, EPC1‐4), was commonly downregulated in the TFV1 knockout mutants. Yeast one‐hybrid assays suggested that TFV1 binds to the putative promoter regions of EPC2, EPC3, and EPC4, indicating the importance of TFV1 for the induced expression of key effector genes in cucurbit infection.

Among the effector‐like genes whose expression was affected by TVL1 deletion, a novel LysM effector gene, EPC5, was identified as being specifically required for virulence on cucurbit hosts. Our study extends the knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms governing host‐ and stage‐specific effectors in C. orbiculare.
Alternative transcriptional initiation of OsβCA1 produces three distinct subcellular localization isoforms involved in stomatal response regulation and photosynthesis in rice
Authors: Mao Cui , Zheng Jie , Shen Enlong , Sun Baolong , Wu Hao , Xu Yi , Huang Weifeng , Ding Xinghua , Lin Yongjun , Chen Taiyu
Published: January 2025

Plants adjust the size of their stomatal openings to balance CO2 intake and water loss. Carbonic anhydrases (CAs) facilitate the conversion between CO2 and HCO3−, and the OsβCA1 mutant in rice (Oryza sativa) shows similar traits in carbon fixation and stomatal response to CO2 as the dual βCA mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana. However, the exact role of OsβCA1 in these processes was unclear.

We used gene editing, molecular biology, and plant physiology to study how OsβCA1 contributes to carbon fixation, stomatal opening, and CO2 responses.

OsβCA1 produces three isoforms (OsβCA1A, OsβCA1B, and OsβCA1C) through alternative transcriptional initiation, which localize to the chloroplast, cell membrane, and cytosol, respectively. Protein measurements revealed that OsβCA1A/C and OsβCA1B contribute 97 and 3% to OsβCA1, respectively. By creating specific mutants for each isoform, our results found that the chloroplast and cell membrane isoforms independently participate in carbon fixation and regulation of stomatal aperture. Furthermore, the complete knockout of OsβCA1 caused a delayed response to low CO2.

Our findings provide new insights into the generation and function of different OsβCA1 isoforms, clarifying their roles in CO2 diffusion, CO2 fixation and stomatal regulation in rice.
A transcription factor SlWRKY71 activated the H2S generating enzyme SlDCD1 enhancing the response to Pseudomonas syringae pv DC3000 in tomato leaves
Authors: Zhao Yu‐Qi , Sun Chen , Hu Kang‐Di , Yu Yue , Liu Zhi , Song Ying‐Chun , Xiong Ren‐Jie , Ma Yue , Zhang Hua , Yao Gai‐Fang
Published: January 2025

H2S is a well‐known gaseous signaling molecule that plays important roles in plant response to biotic stresses. Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato (Pst) could cause enormous loss, while whether H2S could modulate plant defense against Pst is still unclear.

By CRISPR/Cas9, the Sldcd1 gene editing mutant showed reduced endogenous H2S content and attenuated resistance, whereas treatment with exogenous H2S could enhance the resistance. A transcription factor, SlWRKY71, was screened and identified to promote the transcription of SlDCD1 via yeast one‐hybrid, dual‐luciferase reporter system, electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and transient overexpression.

Here, it was found that exogenous H2S relieved the symptoms of bacterial speck disease in tomato leaves, conferring tolerance to Pst. DC3000, and the expression of the H2S‐producing enzyme SlDCD1 was significantly induced. The Slwrky71 mutant also showed reduced defense in tomato leaves against Pst. DC3000, whereas SlWRKY71‐OE tomato leaves showed increased tolerance. Transient overexpression of SlDCD1 in the context of Slwrky71 with exogenous H2S treatment has stronger resistance, and the overexpression of SlWRKY71 in the context of Sldcd1 showed relatively weak disease resistance, and with the addition of H2S enhanced the effect.

Therefore, we concluded that SlWRKY71 could activate SlDCD1 expression and promote endogenous H2S production, thereby improving tomato leaves resistance to Pst. DC3000.
EBV‐Positive Mucocutaneous Ulceration With Osteomyelitis and Necrosis of the Jaw: A Case Series
Authors: Yogarajah Sangeetha , Carey Barbara , Sandison Ann , Gleeson Mary , Fields Paul , Patel Vinod
Published: January 2025

Aims

EBV‐positive lymphoproliferative disorders (EBV‐LPDs) may present in immunocompetent or immunodeficiency states. They have a heterogeneous clinicopathological picture of variable prognosis, ranging from innocuous hyperplasias to aggressive lymphomas. EBV‐positive mucocutaneous ulcers (EBV‐MCU) are a rare phenomenon within the spectrum of EBV‐LPDs which typically arise in the context of immunosuppression. Patients may present with indolent ulcers involving the oral cavity, with their clinical appearance frequently mimicking squamous cell carcinoma or lymphoma, however exhibit a benign, self‐limiting course. Progression to osteomyelitis and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is rare, with the literature limited to patients taking methotrexate only. This case series highlights cases of EBV‐MCU with osteomyelitis and ONJ in three different patients taking methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil and adalimumab.

Methods

Clinical notes were retrospectively reviewed for three patients diagnosed with EBV‐MCU with osteomyelitis and ONJ.

Results

To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previous case reports of EBV‐MCU with osteomyelitis and ONJ, alongside concurrent adalimumab nor mycophenolate mofetil prescription.

Conclusion

All patients were managed successfully with withdrawal of the immunosuppressive drug and conservative measures. In these cases, ONJ development was in immunodeficient individuals due to EBV‐driven lymphoproliferation, which is a different mechanism to medication‐related ONJ (where patients are EBV‐negative and the soft tissues are otherwise healthy). The increased use of novel immunomodulatory agents in the future will further expand iatrogenic causes for EBV‐MCU with osteomyelitis and ONJ.
A Rare Case of an Odontogenic Cyst With Calcifying Epithelial Odontogenic Tumour‐Like Changes Associated With an Unerupted Canine in a Paediatric Patient
Authors: Amin Alisha , Radia Ria , Hall Gillian , Tatham Helen , Ormondroyd Louise
Published: January 2025

Background

Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumours (CEOTs) are benign tumours accounting for less than 1% of all odontogenic tumours. CEOTs are often asymptomatic and are typically diagnosed through incidental radiographic findings, making early detection challenging.

Presenting Problem

A 15‐year‐old presented to the emergency department with a 1‐week history of a left‐sided facial swelling complaining of pain and a blocked left nostril. He had been prescribed amoxicillin previously with no improvement.

Clinical Management

Clinically, a firm, non‐tender swelling involving his upper lip, cheek and nose was noted. Imaging showed a well‐defined unilocular radiolucency, displacing the unerupted dilacerated UL3 and the roots of adjacent teeth with resorption. The treatment plan included marsupialisation of the cyst and management of dental caries. Histologically, hyalinised stromal material consistent with amyloid was reported. A follow‐up CBCT showed a reduction in size with bony infiltration. An MDT decision was made to enucleate the cyst and remove the UL3. The root dilaceration was too severe to consider orthodontic alignment.

Discussion/Conclusion

Over 50% of CEOTs in children are associated with unerupted teeth suggesting odontogenic or developmental origins. This highlights the importance of radiographic evaluation, especially in patients suffering from facial swellings or altered tooth eruption. Excision is commonplace and has good outcomes. However, in paediatric patients, minimally invasive techniques are preferable and should be considered, with the aim to reduce treatment‐associated morbidity, preserve the surrounding structures and reduce the post‐operative healing time/complications. Studies have highlighted promising results with laser ablation showing complete tumour removal, minimal complications and good long‐term follow‐up.
Natural variation in CTF1 conferring cold tolerance at the flowering stage in rice
Authors: Dong Jingfang , Zhang Shaohong , Hu Haifei , Wang Jian , Li Risheng , Wu Jing , Chen Jiansong , Zhou Lian , Ma Yamei , Li Wenhui , Nie Shuai , Wang Shaokui , Zhang Guiquan , Liu Bin , Zhao Junliang , Yang Tifeng
Published: January 2025

Improving cold tolerance at the flowering stage (CTF) in rice is crucial for minimising yield loss, making the identification and application of cold‐tolerant genes and QTLs imperative for effective molecular breeding. The long lead time, dependence on cold treatment conditions, and the inherent complexity of the trait make studying the genetic basis of CTF in rice challenging. To date, the fine‐mapping or cloning of QTLs specific to CTF has not yet been achieved. In this study, single segment substitution lines (SSSLs) were constructed using HJX74 as the recipient and IR58025B, known for good CTF, as the donor. This approach led to the identification of two cold tolerance QTLs, qCTF3 and qCTF6, in rice. qCTF6 has promising breeding potential. Further, we identified the causal gene CTF1 underlying qCTF6 through map‐based cloning. CTF1 which encodes a conserved putative protein, has two SNPs within its coding sequence that influence CTF in rice. Additionally, genetic variations in the promoter of CTF1 also contributes to CTF. Thirteen variant sites of CTF1 in the four cold tolerance SSSLs are consistent with the IR58025B. Moreover, we analysed 307 accessions to characterise haplotypes based on the 13 variation sites, identifying five distinct haplotypes. The selection and evolutionary analysis indicate that the cold‐tolerant haplotype of CTF1 is a newly generated mutation that has undergone selection in japonica during domestication. This study not only provides a novel favourable gene for molecular breeding of CTF but also highlights the potential of CTF1 in advancing rice breeding.
Plasticity of Root System Architecture and Whole Transcriptome Responses Underlying Nitrogen Deficiency Tolerance Conferred by a Wild Emmer Wheat QTL
Authors: Govta Nikolai , Govta Liubov , Sela Hanan , Peleg Gadi , Distelfeld Assaf , Fahima Tzion , Beckles Diane M. , Krugman Tamar
Published: January 2025

Our aim was to elucidate mechanisms underlying nitrogen (N)‐deficiency tolerance in bread wheat (cultivar Ruta), conferred by a wild emmer wheat QTL (WEW; IL99). We hypothesised that the tolerance in IL99 is driven by enhanced N‐uptake through modification of root system architecture (RSA) underscored by transcriptome modifications. Severe N‐deficiency (0.1 N for 26 days) triggered significantly higher plasticity in IL99 compared to Ruta by modifying 16 RSA traits; nine of which were IL99‐specific. The change in root growth in IL99 was collectively characterised by a transition in root orientation from shallow to steep, increased root number and length, and denser networks, enabling nutrient acquisition from a larger volume and deeper soil layers. Gene ontology and KEGG‐enrichment analyses highlighted IL99‐specific pathways and candidate genes elevated under N‐deficiency. This included Jasmonic acid metabolism, a key hormone mediating RSA plasticity (AOS1, TIFY, MTB2, MYC2), and lignification‐mediated root strengthening (CYP73A, 4CL). ‘N‐metabolism’ was identified as a main shared pathway to IL99 and Ruta, with enhanced nitrate uptake predominant in IL99 (NRT2.4), while remobilisation was the main strategy in Ruta (NRT2.3). These findings provide novel insights into wheat plasticity response underlying tolerance to N‐deficiency and demonstrate the potential of WEW for improving N‐uptake under suboptimal conditions.
Practice of ABO antibody titration in a transplant center: From tube method to manual gel column testing to automated column agglutination technology
Authors: Sun Jun‐Bo , Chen Li‐Wen , Tao Li‐Li , Wu Qing‐Si , Yu Qian‐Qian , Xie Zhi‐Wei
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

High‐quality ABO antibody titre testing is required for ABO‐incompatible haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and kidney transplantation. To assess the feasibility of automated ABO titration as an alternative to manual and semi‐automatic titration during the peri‐transplant period, a comparative study was conducted internally in a transfusion medicine laboratory.

Materials and Methods

This study was performed in two stages. Firstly, the differences in anti‐A/B detecting using conventional tube test (CTT) and manual column agglutination technology (CAT) were compared in group O pregnant women. Then, manual and automated CAT were applied to simultaneously detect ABO antibody levels in non‐AB‐group adult haematological oncology patients.

Results

In the first stage, four groups of 192 comparable results were generated from 48 subjects, which showed a high correlation between CTT and manual CAT (p < 0.001). However, the detection sensitivity of the latter was at least 1 fold higher dilution than that of the former. Fifty‐six patients were tested in the second stage by simultaneous manual and automated CAT, and the paired titers differed within an acceptable range (±1 fold dilution). However, the concordance was slightly higher in group IgM (85.4%) than in group IgG (80.5%). Blood group specificity of ABO titers was also observed in this population, and no association between titers and other factors was found.

Conclusion

Automated CAT standardises ABO titre testing and saves labor costs, although manual review of weak positive reactions is still necessary. Due to the blood group specificity of ABO antibodies, special attention should be paid to the quality control and clinical relevance of titre testing for group O recipients in ABO‐mismatched transplantation.
Uneven ambient futures: Intersecting heat and housing trajectories in England and Wales
Authors: Robinson Caitlin , Hasova Lenka , Zhang Lin
Published: January 2025

Despite being one of the key mechanisms via which people are exposed (or not) to uncomfortable or dangerous ambient environments—the conditions of the air or other medium that surround us—housing is rarely considered in evaluation of future climatic changes and vulnerability, including extreme summer heat. Responding to increasing interest in futures across geography—particularly in a warming world—this paper conceptualises and analyses localised heat‐housing trajectories for neighbourhoods in England and Wales. We apply sequence analysis to projected climate data to identify and characterise common trajectories of extreme summer heat. Heat trajectories are juxtaposed with housing data for ~15 million individual properties detailing type, quality and characteristics, derived from Energy Performance Certificates, as well as other socio‐demographic data. Our approach is deliberately somewhat ‘speculative’—a rehearsal spaces of sorts for different ways of responding to the prospect of uncertain futures. This enables us to consider different vulnerabilities that are likely to be reinforced, produced or remediated by extreme summer temperatures. Our heat‐housing trajectories highlight the important role of precarity in shaping vulnerability to extreme summer temperatures, a dimension underexplored to date. We also reflect on how we can conceptualise and map uneven ambient futures within the constraints of existing quantitative spatial data.
Atypical presentation of Skene’s gland cyst
Authors: Anees Faryal , Chughtai Novera , Baloch Nazish , Malik Anum
Published: January 2025

A nulliparous female presented with lower abdominal pain, initially diagnosed as incisional scar hernia, which was repaired. However, her pain persisted despite unremarkable radiology imaging. She was then diagnosed with anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) and underwent a right-sided ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerve block. Her pain returned after a month, accompanied by lower urinary tract symptoms. During examination, a paraurethral cyst was incidentally discovered. As her pain was unresponsive to medication, surgical excision of the cyst was planned as a possible cause of pain, leading to the complete resolution of her symptoms.
Russell’s viper bite induced cortical sinus thrombosis and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage
Authors: Sasidharan Parvathy , Shankar Takshak , Arora Poonam , Bhardwaj Bharat Bhushan
Published: January 2025

Snakebites are critical medical emergencies that significantly contribute to emergency department visits during monsoon seasons. This case report details a patient who experienced simultaneous arterial and venous thrombosis of major intracranial vessels due to venom-induced consumptive coagulopathy. Additionally, the patient developed diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH), highlighting the severe impact of these uncommon complications on prognosis. Early recognition of such rare conditions depends on maintaining a high index of suspicion.
Burden of blindness and visual impairment associated with corneal opacities in India
Authors: Gupta Vivek , Vashist Praveen , Sarath Sukumara , Gupta Noopur , Senjam Suraj Singh , Shukla Palllavi , Shamanna Bindiganavale Ramaswamy , Rajshekhar Vemparala , Wadhwani Meenakshi , Bhardwaj Amit , Gupta Promila , Titiyal Jeewan S
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To obtain national-level data on current burden of blindness and visual impairment (VI) due to corneal opacities (CO) and their epidemiological determinants in India.

Methods

A cross-sectional, population-based survey was conducted in 31 districts for population aged ≥50 years using Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) V.6 methodology and 6 districts for population aged 0–49 years. Using standardised definitions, prevalence (95% CIs) and burden for 2023 were estimated at International Classification of Diseases-11 thresholds of mild/early VI (EVI) and moderate to severe VI (MSVI) and blindness.

Results

85 135 participants aged ≥50 years and 13 695 participants between 0 and 49 years were examined. Prevalence of avoidable blindness due to CO was 17.1 per 10 000 (13.4 to 21.9) and 3.39 per 10 000 (1.16 to 9.92) in populations aged ≥50 years and 0–49 years, respectively. 32% (n=49) in ≥50-year group did not have perception of light in CO-affected eye. Prevalence of cumulative avoidable MSVI or blindness due to CO was 26.9/10 000 (20.7 to 35.0) and 8.32/10 000 (2.81 to 24.62) in populations aged ≥50 years and 0–49 years, respectively, while cumulative avoidable EVI, MSVI or blindness due to CO were 30.1/10 000 (23.8 to 38.1) and 8.3/10 000 (2.81 to 24.62), respectively.

Higher prevalence of avoidable MSVI or blindness due to CO were associated with increasing age, lower educational status; lower prevalence was noted in northeast geographical zone. Rural–urban and gender-based differences were not statistically and clinically significant respectively.

Conclusion

There is a high burden of CO-related blindness and VI in India, especially in older populations. Key epidemiological risks may be used for prioritisation in eye health plans.
Xanthomatous hypophysitis relapsing and remitting over two decades
Authors: Nazeer Kabir Khan , Alatrash Salhin , Elsheikh Sawsan , Jacob Saiju
Published: January 2025

Inflammation of the pituitary gland can be primary (without another underlying cause) or secondary (associated with a systemic inflammatory condition). Primary hypophysitis is very rare, among which xanthomatous hypophysitis as a histological type is extremely unusual. A woman in her late 50s presented with recurrent pituitary lesions over 20 years. Her general practitioner had diagnosed panhypopituitarism in her 30s; a decade later, she had presented to ophthalmology with visual loss and restricted visual fields, and a pituitary lesion was found. This recurred several times requiring multiple resections. Histopathology showed atypical inflammation in keeping with xanthomatous hypophysitis; this responded well to corticosteroid therapy. Xanthomatous hypophysitis is a rare form of steroid-responsive primary pituitary inflammation, to consider in the differential diagnosis of recurring pituitary lesions.