bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal Urinary Obstruction and Intervention for Sacrococcygeal Teratoma: A Case Report From Kenya
Authors: Mwangi Maryanne Muthoni , Wanyonyi Sikolia , Mugambi Stanley
Published: July 2024

Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction is a rare condition commonly associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality, particularly when detected in the second trimester. The concurrent presentation of a recto-urethral fistula with membranous urethral atresia and sacrococcygeal teratoma has not been reported. We describe a case of extrinsic fetal lower urinary tract obstruction related to a recto-urethral fistula, diagnosed at 33 weeks gestation and managed by serial vesicocentesis until 38 weeks. This case, notable for its absence of hypoplasia despite late diagnosis, resulted in a term delivery of a male infant. After delivery, pediatric surgeons performed an abdominal perineal resection of the tumor. Fetal vesicocentesis remains a viable management option for patients without access to intrauterine surgical interventions.
Assessment of the risk of bowel obstruction after laparoscopic versus open surgery for rectal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Mitra Rajarshi
Published: July 2024

Background

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the incidence of adhesion-related readmissions and surgery for adhesive bowel obstruction (BO) in patients who underwent laparoscopic or open surgery for rectal cancer. Laparoscopic surgery is generally believed to be associated with a lower rate of postoperative adhesion formation compared with open surgery.

Materials and Methods

A thorough and systematic search was conducted across multiple comprehensive databases to identify relevant studies for inclusion in this systematic review. The purpose of this search was to ensure a comprehensive and unbiased selection of studies to provide a robust foundation for the subsequent analysis.

Result

In this review, a total of 10 studies were involved on BO risk in laparoscopic and open surgery for rectal cancer. This study consistently showed that laparoscopic surgery carried a lower risk of postoperative BO compared with open surgery. Six studies in the review supported this finding.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic surgery shows a significant reduction in adhesive BO compared with open surgery, as indicated by this systematic review. However, more well-designed randomized trials involving diverse patients are needed to confirm these benefits. Further research is necessary to gain a clearer understanding of the advantages of laparoscopic surgery in reducing the risk of BO.
CX3CR1+ macrophages interact with HSCs to promote HCC through CD8+ T-cell suppression
Authors: Jeong Jong-Min , Choi Sung Eun , Shim Young-Ri , Kim Hee-Hoon , Lee Young-Sun , Yang Keungmo , Kim Kyurae , Kim Min Jeong , Chung Katherine Po Sin , Kim Seok-Hwan , Byun Jin-Seok , Eun Hyuk Soo , Jeong Won-Il
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims:

HSCs contribute to HCC progression by regulating multiple factors. However, the entire immunoregulatory functions of HSCs are still obscure. Here, we aim to investigate whether HSCs impose CX3CR1+ macrophages to protumorigenic properties in the peritumoral area.

Approach and Results:

In single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of patients with HCC, a subpopulation of macrophages specifically expressed Arg1 and Cx3cr1 in the peritumoral area and were highly enriched with retinol metabolism–related genes. Flow cytometry analysis showed significantly increased frequencies of CD14+CD11b+HLA-DR− macrophages with CX3CR1 in the HCC adjacent region where α-smooth muscle actin–expressing activated hepatic stellate cells (aHSCs) showed colocalized expression of CX3CL1. Accordingly, in tumor-bearing mice, Cx3cl1 mRNA expression was notably increased in aHSCs within the adjacent HCC, where infiltration of CX3CR1+Ly6C+ macrophages was mostly observed with decreased CD8+ T cells. In adoptive transfer and in vitro coculture of myeloid cells, we demonstrated that CX3CR1+Ly6C+ macrophages migrated and highly expressed arginase-1 by interacting with retinoid-enriched aHSCs in the adjacent HCC. Direct treatment of retinoids or coculturing with retinol-storing mouse aHSCs or human LX-2 cells significantly increased arginase-1 expression in CX3CR1+Ly6C+ macrophages and human blood CD14+ cells, leading to the suppression of CD8+ T-cell proliferation. Moreover, genetic deficiency of CX3CR1 in myeloid cells or pharmacological inhibition of retinol metabolism remarkably attenuated HCC development.

Conclusions:

We showed that CX3CR1+Ly6C+ macrophages migrate and interact with aHSCs in the peritumoral region where retinoids induce arginase-1 expression in CX3CR1+Ly6C+ macrophages, subsequently depriving CD8+ T cells of arginine and promoting HCC.
CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION AS A LATE COMPLICATION OF SYPHILITIC CHORIORETINITIS MANAGED WITH INTRAVITREAL AFLIBERCEPT
Authors: Couto Ana Paula , Provenzano Giovanna , Vianna Raul N. G.
Published: July 2024

Purpose.

To report a rare case of choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) developed three years after acquired syphilitic chorioretinitis successfully treated with intravitreal aflibercept.

Methods.

Case report.

Results.

A 44-year-old woman with bilateral decreased vision and a history of syphilitic chorioretinitis 3 years prior to presentation. Her best-corrected visual acuity was <20/400 in the right eye and 20/70 in the left eye. There was no evidence of anterior chamber or vitreous inflammation. Fundoscopy revealed a fibrovascular macular lesion associated with hemorrhages in both eyes. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography confirmed the diagnosis of bilateral CNV. After ruling out other systemic diseases, the diagnosis of CNV as a late complication of syphilitic chorioretinitis was established. Although treatment was not recommended in the right eye, the left eye was treated with 3 monthly intravitreal injections of aflibercept as a solo therapy. Three weeks after the last injection, the visual acuity improved to 20/25 and remained stable at the 6-month follow-up with no evidence of CNV reactivation.

Conclusion.

Choroidal neovascular membranes can occur as a late complication of syphilitic chorioretinitis. Solo treatment with intravitreal injections of the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor aflibercept effectively controlled CNV activity and improved visual acuity.
Sclerosing Perineurioma of the Orbit
Authors: Siktberg Jonathan , Vaishnav Yash , Berry Julia , Singh Reena , Mawn Louise A.
Published: July 2024

A 7-week-old boy presented to pediatric ophthalmology with a mass inferior to the medial canthus of the OS that was first noticed on day 3 of life. Crigler massages, warm compresses, and moxifloxacin HCl drops were administered without resolution of symptoms. Probing and irrigation for a presumed dacryocystocele were performed, but the nasolacrimal system was patent, and the mass persisted after the procedure. Oculoplastics was consulted for further evaluation and management. On exam, the tear lake was normal, there was no discharge to palpation of either lacrimal sac, and there was no erythema. An MRI was obtained that showed a mass with nonspecific features abutting the lacrimal sac. A gross total resection of the mass was performed, and it was sent for histopathologic evaluation. Pathology results yielded a diagnosis of sclerosing perineurioma, a rare soft tissue tumor previously unreported in the orbit.
Comparison of long-term visual quality after keratorefractive lenticule extraction and implantable collamer lens V4c for high myopia
Authors: Zhan Biyun , Huang Yangyi , Chen Xun , Aruma Aruma , Cheng Mingrui , Wang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtao
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To compare the long-term refractive outcomes and visual quality after keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx) and EVO-implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation for high myopia.

Setting:

Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

This study included 31 KLEx-treated patients (31 eyes, spherical equivalent: −7.62 ± 1.22 diopters [D]) and 32 ICL-treated patients (32 eyes, spherical equivalent: −8.22 ± 1.18 D). Refractive outcomes and objective visual quality were examined. Subjective visual quality was evaluated by a customized questionnaire. Patients' satisfaction was graded.

Results:

5 years postoperatively, the efficacy (KLEx: 0.96 ± 0.20; ICL: 1.03 ± 0.20;P= .164) and safety indices (KLEx: 1.12 ± 0.20; ICL: 1.21 ± 0.19;P= .067) were comparable. Statistically higher proportions of ICL-treated eyes achieved a postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better (P= .035). Refractive predictability was similar between the 2 groups (P= .947), whereas more KLEx-treated eyes had myopic refractive errors (P< .001). Total coma was significantly higher after KLEx (P= .020), and greater total trefoil was observed after ICL implantation (P= .006). Haloes were the primary visual disturbance in both groups (KLEx: 64.5%; ICL: 93.8%). The incidences of haloes (P< .001), glare (P= .004), and starbursts (P= .043) were notably higher after ICL implantation. The patient's satisfaction scores were similar (KLEx: 9.10 ± 1.27; ICL: 9.10 ± 1.27;P= .894).

Conclusions:

For high myopia, EVO-ICL yielded better long-term refractive outcomes than KLEx. Haloes were the chief concern in both groups, with a significantly higher incidence after ICL implantation.
Understanding Perceptions of Care Coordination and Chronic Illness Management among Black Breast and Prostate Cancer Survivors and Providers
Authors: Schubel Laura , Mete Mihriye , Fong Allan , Boxley Christian , Barac Ana , Gallagher Christopher , Magee Michelle F. , Arem Hannah
Published: July 2024

Navigating cancer care is complex and is exacerbated by pre-existing comorbidities managed by multiple providers. In this quality improvement study, we evaluated changes in perceived care coordination, navigation, and chronic illness care with community health worker (CHW) and mHealth support among Black breast cancer and prostate cancer patients with hypertension and/or diabetes. We collected patient and provider surveys on chronic illness care coordination at baseline and six months and found improvements in multiple domains. These findings support engaging CHWs to improve care coordination among cancer patients with comorbidities and demonstrate a use case of importance with emerging navigation reimbursement policies.
A case report on acquired reactive perforating collagenosis
Authors: Su Yuanting , Cui Wei
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Acquired reactive perforating collagenosis (ARPC) is a rare perforating skin disease with unclear pathogenesis, often leading to misdiagnosis. Utilizing noninvasive skin microscopy improves diagnostic accuracy while reducing misdiagnosis rates.

Patient concerns:

Given its association with systemic diseases, comprehensive examinations are crucial for early detection of related diseases such as tumors. Clinically, it still lacks standardized guidelines for the treatment. Clinical treatment is mostly based on symptomatic treatment. Oral administration of pregabalin capsules can significantly relieve itching symptoms, and narrow-wave ultraviolet irradiation can accelerate the recovery of skin lesions.

Diagnosis:

Dermoscopy and skin biopsy was used to confirm this case was ARPC.

Interventions:

Treatment was based on oral administration of 20 mg prednisone, 1 tablet of loratadine, 1 tablet of pregabalin in the morning and evening, and external application of halomethasone ointment.

Outcomes:

Itching symptoms were significantly relieved.

Conclusion:

This case report demonstrates that clinical dermoscopy can improve the diagnosis rate of ARPC, and pregabalin capsules can significantly relieve itching symptoms.
Growing the Next Generation of Nurses and Nurse Leaders
Authors: Lal M. Maureen , Turner Lauren
Published: July 2024

It is imperative to support the next generation of nurses and nurse leaders facing the challenges of our complex health systems. A formal mentoring program provides a structure that allows nurses to have a relationship that promotes ongoing counsel, career development, and a myriad of other benefits with another nurse or other healthcare professionals. The 2023 Magnet® Application Manual requires organizations to implement and use mentoring and succession planning programs under the transformational leadership standard. Adopting and sustaining effective and meaningful mentoring and succession planning activities and programs promote an environment of inclusion and professional development. In addition to formal mentoring programs, the importance of informal mentoring relationships can have a lasting impact on nurses along their nursing journey.
Leadership Meeting Redesign
Authors: Collum Karen , Kennedy Matthew , Gosselin Tracy
Published: July 2024

Efficient and effective meetings are critical for busy health care leaders who are often juggling multiple demands on their time. Creating a shared sense of purpose post COVID and having engagement with all leaders are critical to a department's success. This improvement project offers leaders direction on thinking through meeting redesign.
Enhancing Organizational Review and Promoting Sustainability of DNP Student Projects
Authors: Chipps Esther , Buck Jacalyn , Burt Meleana , Chignolli Holly , Francis Deborah , Knupp Amy , Labardee Ruth , Masciola Randee , Spaulding-Schecter Jacob
Published: July 2024

This project aimed to evaluate the DNP projects at an academic medical center, assess the sustainability of DNP final projects, and explore potential opportunities to enhance the organizational review processes. The organization's graduate student review committee reviewed DNP projects implemented at the organization over the last 8 years. The sustainability of projects was less than anticipated. Recommendations are provided to enhance the DNP project approval process and improve strategies for sustainability.
A Nationwide Analysis of Complications, Reoperations, and Cost of Wide-Awake Flexor Tendon Repairs
Authors: Kammien Alexander J. , Rancu Albert L. , Kim Samuel , Parikh Neil , Grauer Jonathan N. , Colen David L.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Some articles suggest that wide-awake flexor tendon repair (FTR) may reduce rates of postoperative tendon gapping and rupture because of improved intraoperative testing of the repair. The current study is a nationwide cohort study comparing FTRs performed wide-awake and with traditional anesthesia.

Methods:

Patients undergoing zone II FTR between 2010 and 2022 were identified in PearlDiver. Exclusion criteria were other tendon repairs, concomitant treatment for vascular injury, fracture, dislocation or amputation, inpatient or office surgery, age younger than 18 years, and less than 1 year of follow-up. Patients were stratified by anesthesia technique: traditional anesthesia (general anesthesia, monitored anesthesia care, regional blocks) or wide-awake anesthesia. Patients were matched based on age, sex, Elixhauser Comorbidity Index score, geographic region, insurance coverage, number of tendon repairs, and presence of concomitant nerve repair. Thirty-day wound complications, emergency department visits and readmissions, and 1-year reoperations were identified. Total reimbursement for surgery was determined.

Results:

Each matched cohort included 2563 patients. Wide-awake patients had fewer 30-day emergency department visits (2.7% versus 4.8%). There were no differences in 30-day wound complications or readmissions. There was no difference in 1-year reoperations for rupture or stiffness. Multivariable linear regression identified wide-awake surgery to be significantly associated with lower total reimbursement.

Conclusion:

Performing digital FTR using wide-awake techniques can reduce costs, but the hypothesis that wide-awake repairs may reduce rates of tendon rupture was not supported by the current study.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, III.
The impact of diabetes mellitus on HIV virologic control: results of the MACS/WIHS combined cohort study
Authors: Mann Sarah C. , Tong Weiqun , Abraham Alison G. , Palella Frank , Sharma Anjali , Tien Phyllis C. , Fischl Margaret A. , McFarlane Samy I. , Lahiri Cecile D. , Koletar Susan , Merenstein Daniel , Floris-Moore Michelle , Lake Jordan E. , Daubert Elizabeth , Hickman Aubri , Brown Todd T. , Castillo-Mancilla Jose
Published: July 2024

Objective:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with lower antiretroviral (ART) drug exposure among persons with HIV (PWH) compared to PWH without DM. The association between DM and virologic control in PWH, however, remains unknown.

Methods:

We included participants in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study/Women's Interagency HIV Study Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) who had initiated ART between 1999 and 2020 and had a suppressed HIV viral load (≤200 copies/ml) within 1 year of ART initiation. We compared the frequency of incident HIV viremia (HIV-1 RNA >200 copies/ml) between adult PWH with and without DM. Poisson regression was used to examine the rate of incident viremia based on the diagnosis of DM among PWH. DM was defined as two consecutive fasting glucose measurements ≥126 mg/dl, use of antidiabetic medications, preexisting DM diagnosis, or a confirmed HbA1c >6.5%.

Results:

1061 women (112 with DM, 949 without DM) and 633 men (41 with DM, and 592 without DM) were included in the analysis. The relative rate (RR) of incident HIV viremia for women with HIV and DM was lower when compared to women without DM (0.85 [95% CI: 0.72–0.99]; P = 0.04). The RR of incident viremia for women with uncontrolled DM (HbA1c > 7.5%) was higher when compared to women with controlled DM (HbA1c < 7.5%) (1.46 [95% CI: 1.03–2.07]; P = 0.03). In contrast, the RR of incident viremia for men with HIV and DM was not statistically different compared to men without DM (1.2 [95% CI: 0.96–1.50]; P = 0.12). The results were stratified by adherence levels (100%, 95–99%, and <95% based on self-report).

Conclusions:

Women with DM who are highly adherent to ART (100% self-reported adherence) have a lower risk of viremia compared to women with HIV without DM. However, women with poorly controlled DM were at higher risk of HIV viremia than women with controlled DM. Further research is necessary to understand the impact of sex, DM, and ART adherence on HIV viremia.
The Vertical Profunda Artery Perforator Flap for Perineal Reconstruction
Authors: Lavie Jennifer L. , Guidry Richard F. , Palines Patrick A. , Dibbs Rami P. , Melancon Devin M. , Womac Daniel J. , Stalder Mark W.
Published: July 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer is a significant cause of cancer-related death in the United States with abdominoperineal resection (APR) remaining a necessary procedure for many patients. The resultant defects of this radical operation are complex and characterized by significant tissue voids. Pedicled vertical profunda artery perforator flaps (vPAP) can be used to obliterate these defects in patients receiving minimally invasive APR or when the abdominal donor site is unavailable.

Methods

After receiving local institutional review board approval, a single center, retrospective cohort study from January 2020 to December 2021 was performed assessing pedicled vPAP flap reconstruction of APR defects. Age, sex, body mass index, primary diagnosis, comorbidities, concomitant oncologic procedures, radiation, timing, incorporation of gracilis flaps, follow-up, and complications were compared.

Results

Ten patients (70% male) with an average age of 56.2 years and BMI of 27.6 were included in the study. Rectal adenocarcinoma (50%) was the most common indication for APR, followed by rectal squamous cell carcinoma (30%), vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (10%), and Crohn disease (10%). Eighty percent of the patients received radiation, and 70% of reconstructions were delayed after the initial resection. The average length of clinical follow-up was 26.1 months. Concerning major complications, 2 patients were required to return to the operating room due to venous congestion (20%), and 2 patients suffered partial flap failure (20%). Minor complications were perineal dehiscence (50%), abscess requiring percutaneous drainage by interventional radiology (30%), and infection requiring antibiotics (20%). Twenty percent of patients developed fistulas requiring surgical excision. There were no instances of donor site dehiscence, and there was no complete flap loss, indicating successful reconstruction in all included cases.

Conclusions

vPAP flaps are a reliable method to reconstruct perineal defects with less donor-site morbidity than previous reconstructive options. vPAP flaps should be considered in the setting of delayed reconstruction, minimally invasive APRs, and when the abdominal donor site is unavailable.
Discrepancies Between Objective and Subjective Outcomes of and Quality of Life During Molding Helmet Therapy for Cranial Deformities
Authors: Neumeister Anne , Brand Susanne , Koch Franziska , Kubon Sophie , Baumgarten Peter , Senft Christian , Schwarz Falko , Löschner Denise
Published: July 2024

Positional skull deformities have been on the rise for decades and can be treated with molding helmets in early childhood. Parents often fear later cosmetic stigmatization, but also a reduced quality of life (QoL) during treatment. The aim of this study was to examine therapy results in our patient collection from a new perspective. Cranial vault asymmetry (CVA), cranial vault asymmetry index (CVAI), and cranial index (CI) were compared before and after molding helmet therapy. Correction was defined by a decrease in CVA <3.5 mm and CI <90%. Subjective therapy outcome, side effects and QoL from the parents’ perspective were determined using a questionnaire. There were 25 patients included. Differences between pretherapeutic and posttherapeutic CVA, CVAI, and CI were significant (P<0.01). An objective correction according to the defined values was observed in only 12% of cases. However, 76% of parents stated that their child’s skull shape was normal after therapy. There were 60 side effects reported in 23 cases. The QoL of 21 children was assessed as unimpaired during helmet therapy. Even though complete normalization was rarely observed, the parameters were significantly different after therapy, and subjective reduction in skull deformity was common.
New generation fluoroquinolone sitafloxacin could potentially overcome the majority levofloxacin and moxifloxacin resistance in multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Sun Qing , Cheng Kai , Liao Xinlei , Zhao Weijie , Wang Chenqian , Wang Chaohong , Yan Jun , Dong Lingling , Wang Fen , Jiang Guanglu , Huang Hairong , Guo Zhenyong , Wang Guirong
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Pre-existing fluoroquinolones (FQs) resistance is a major threat in treating multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis. Sitafloxacin (Sfx) is a new broad-spectrum FQ.

Hypothesis. Sfx is more active against drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) isolates.

Aim. To determine whether there is cross-resistance between Sfx and ofloxacin (Ofx), levofloxacin (Lfx) and moxifloxacin (Mfx) in MDR Mtb.

Methods. A total of 106 clinical Mtb isolates, including 23 pan-susceptible and 83 MDR strains, were analysed for Sfx, Lfx and Mfx resistance using MIC assay. The isolates were also subjected to whole-genome sequencing to analyse drug-resistant genes.

Results. Sfx exhibited the most robust inhibition activity against Mtb clinical isolates, with a MIC50 of 0.0313 µg ml−1 and MIC90 of 0.125 µg ml−1, which was lower than that of Mfx (MIC50 = 0.0625 µg ml−1, MIC90 = 1 µg ml−1) and Lfx (MIC50 = 0.125 µg ml−1, MIC90 = 2 µg ml−1). We determined the tentative epidemiological cut-off values as 0.5 µg ml−1 for Sfx. Also, 8.43% (7/83), 43.37% (36/83), 42.17% (35/83) and 51.81% (43/83) MDR strains were resistant to Sfx, Mfx, Lfx and Ofx, respectively. Cross-resistance between Ofx, Lfx and Mfx was 80.43% (37/46). Only 15.22% (7/46) of the pre-existing FQs resistance isolates were resistant to Sfx. Among the 30 isolates with mutations in gyrA or gyrB, 5 (16.67%) were Sfx resistant. The combination of Sfx and rifampicin could exert partial synergistic effects, and no antagonism between Sfx and six clinically important anti-Mtb antibiotics was evident.

Conclusion. Sfx exhibited superior activity against MDR isolates comparing to Lfx and Mfx, and could potentially overcome the majority pre-existing FQs resistance in Mtb strains.
RelQ-mediated alarmone signalling regulates growth, stress-induced biofilm formation and spore accumulation in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Malik Areej , Oludiran Adenrele , Poudel Asia , Alvarez Orlando Berumen , Woodward Charles , Purcell Erin B.
Published: July 2024

The bacterial stringent response (SR) is a conserved transcriptional reprogramming pathway mediated by the nucleotide signalling alarmones, (pp)pGpp. The SR has been implicated in antibiotic survival in Clostridioides difficile, a biofilm- and spore-forming pathogen that causes resilient, highly recurrent C. difficile infections. The role of the SR in other processes and the effectors by which it regulates C. difficile physiology are unknown. C. difficile RelQ is a clostridial alarmone synthetase. Deletion of relQ dysregulates C. difficile growth in unstressed conditions, affects susceptibility to antibiotic and oxidative stressors and drastically reduces biofilm formation. While wild-type C. difficile displays increased biofilm formation in the presence of sublethal stress, the ΔrelQ strain cannot upregulate biofilm production in response to stress. Deletion of relQ slows spore accumulation in planktonic cultures but accelerates it in biofilms. This work establishes biofilm formation and spore accumulation as alarmone-mediated processes in C. difficile and reveals the importance of RelQ in stress-induced biofilm regulation.
A review on Camellia oleifera Abel.: A valuable
material in food and medicine
Authors: Que Anh Huynh Nguyen , Tan Quoc Le Pham , Ngoc My Truong , Quynh Chi Luong Ngoc , Phuong Khanh Pham Thi
Published: July 2024

This study aims to provide an overview of the research on the chemical
composition, nutritional value, biological activities, and potential
applications of Camellia oleifera seeds. Camellia
oleifera Abel. (Theaceae) is a type of woody plant found in various
regions, including China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. This plant is highly
valued for its cooking oil, as the oil extracted from its seeds contains many
unsaturated fatty acids (90%), mainly oleic acid (80%), and
various biologically active compounds. Oil derived from C.
oleifera seeds has been shown to possess numerous health benefits,
such as reducing low-density lipoproteins cholesterol levels, preventing
cardiovascular diseases and cancer, and regulating blood pressure. Apart from
its oil, the seeds of C. oleifera also contain remarkable
biological compounds that offer additional health advantages. Despite these
promising attributes, C. oleifera has yet to be widely
recognized as a potential source of raw materials for pharmaceutical purposes.
This lack of popularity and awareness has hindered further exploration of its
pharmaceutical benefits and other uses. Through this article, we hope everyone
can better understand this plant and have more practical applications in the
future.
Ovalbumin: A potential functional protein
Authors: Udeshika Maggonage Maggonage Hasini , Manjula Prabudhdha , Ahn Dong Uk , Nalaka Sandun Abeyrathne Edirisingha Dewage
Published: July 2024

Although ovalbumin makes up 54% of the total egg white proteins,
individual protein usage is rare. The primary applications of ovalbumin in the
food industry relate to other proteins, such as whole egg whites. Ovalbumin has
remarkable functional properties, such as those of gelation, foaming, and
emulsification, which are crucial in the processing of food, however, its
application as a standalone functional protein is severely constrained due to
separation issues. In recent years, new methodologies for the large-scale
separation of ovalbumin have emerged. Meantime, ovalbumin was identified as a
good source to produce bioactive peptides with a variety of functional
properties, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and
angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitory actions, according to research. Newly
discovered bioactive peptides from ovalbumin can be used in the food sector in
addition to their well-known functional properties to create health-promoting
products. Benefits extend beyond the food business to numerous other sectors,
such as the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Consequently, a gap between
the existing and prospective future uses is found. The main goals of this study
were to determine some possible factors for the long-term neglect of the major
protein and to determine the growing potential for applications of ovalbumin and
peptides.
GPS-Net: discovering prognostic pathway modules based on network regularized kernel learning
Authors: Yao Sijie , Li Kaiqiao , Li Tingyi , Yu Xiaoqing , Kuan Pei Fen , Wang Xuefeng
Published: July 2024

The search for prognostic biomarkers capable of predicting patient outcomes, by analyzing gene expression in tissue samples and other molecular profiles, remains largely on single-gene-based or global-gene-search approaches. Gene-centric approaches, while foundational, fail to capture the higher-order dependencies that reflect the activities of co-regulated processes, pathway alterations, and regulatory networks, all of which are crucial in determining the patient outcomes in complex diseases like cancer. Here, we introduce GPS-Net, a computational framework that fills the gap in efficiently identifying prognostic modules by incorporating the holistic pathway structures and the network of gene interactions. By innovatively incorporating advanced multiple kernel learning techniques and network-based regularization, the proposed method not only enhances the accuracy of biomarker and pathway identification but also significantly reduces computational complexity, as demonstrated by extensive simulation studies. Applying GPS-Net, we identified key pathways that are predictive of patient outcomes in a cancer immunotherapy study. Overall, our approach provides a novel framework that renders genome-wide pathway-level prognostic analysis both feasible and scalable, synergizing both mechanism-driven and data-driven for precision genomics.
WheatTaNADPOpromotes spot blotch resistance
Authors: Yuan Meng , Zeng Qingdong , Hua Lei , Wu Jianhui , Zhao Shuqing , Li Mengyu , Ren Xiaopeng , Su Jun , Ren Zhuang , Ma Linfei , Liu Zihan , Wang Kaixuan , Sun Manli , Yan Hongfei , Kang Zhensheng , Han Dejun , Chen Shisheng , Wang Xiaodong
Published: July 2024

Bipolaris sorokinianais a common soil-borne fungal pathogen that can infect various organs of wheat (Triticum aestivumL.), causing diseases such as spot blotch, common root rot, head blight, and black point. The genetic basis of wheat resistance toB. sorokinianais not yet fully understood. In this study, a natural population of 1,302 global common wheat germplasms was established and inoculated withB. sorokinianaat the seedling stage in a greenhouse. Resistance to spot blotch was assessed, revealing that only about 3.8% of the germplasms exhibited moderate or higher resistance levels. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) using high-density 660K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data identified a region on chromosome 1BL (621.2-674.0 Mb) with 9 SNPs significantly associated (p< 10e-4) with spot blotch resistance, designated asQsb.hebau-1BL. RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR assays showed that the geneTraesCS1B02G410300, encoding nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate-binding oxidoreductase (TaNADPO), was significantly induced byB. sorokiniana. Five SNP variations were found in the promoter region ofTaNADPOin wheat lines with or withoutQsb.hebau-1BL. Transient expression ofTaNADPOinNicotiana benthamianaleaves showed a cytoplasmic subcellular localization of the fusion protein with a green fluorescent protein (GFP) tag. Wheat transgenic lines overexpressingTaNADPOexhibited significantly enhanced resistance to spot blotch compared to wildtype plants, with higher accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The knockout EMS mutant ofTriticum turgidum NADPO(tdnadpo-K2561, Gln125*) showed significantly reduced resistance to spot blotch and lower ROS accumulation compared to wildtype plants. In summary,TaNADPOhas been identified as a crucial gene for resistance toB. sorokiniana, providing valuable insights for developing spot blotch-resistant wheat varieties through molecular breeding techniques.
Agricultural landscapes with high compositional heterogeneity support both forest and farmland birds in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Da-Li , Amano Tatsuya , Fuller Richard A. , Ding Tzung-Su , Maron Martine
Published: July 2024

Context

Promoting heterogeneous agricultural landscapes could help to reduce the negative impacts of habitat conversion on biota. However, the benefits of landscape heterogeneity can vary among spatial scales and taxa.

Objectives

To design biodiversity-friendly landscapes, we use nationwide bird survey data and land use maps to examine the effects of compositional heterogeneity, configurational heterogeneity, and habitat amount at different scales on the species richness of different bird groups.

Methods

We examine the effects of configurational heterogeneity (measured using edge density), compositional heterogeneity (Shannon’s diversity index of habitat types), and habitat amount (proportion of forest and farmland cover) at both transect (local) and landscape (0.5, 1, or 2 km) scales on the species richness of all breeding birds, forest birds, farmland birds, and introduced birds.

Results

Total species richness had a hump-shaped relationship with local forest cover, and with farmland cover at landscape scale. Richness of both forest birds and richness of farmland birds increased with Shannon’s diversity index of habitat types at both local and landscape scales, but only increased with the amount of their preferred habitat at the local scale. Richness of introduced birds was greater in landscapes with higher edge density, suggesting those species are associated with human-dominated landscapes.

Conclusions

High compositional heterogeneity with low configurational heterogeneity at the landscape scale may help maintain native bird richness while minimising the spread of introduced species in Taiwan. These results can help guide land use planning to achieving biodiversity goals in a country with intensive land-use competition.
Stepping dynamics of dynein characterized by MINFLUX
Authors: Slivka Joseph , Gleave Emma , Wijewardena Devinda P. , Canty John T. , Selvin Paul R. , Carter Andrew P. , Yildiz Ahmet
Published: July 2024

Cytoplasmic dynein is a dimeric motor that drives minus-end directed transport on microtubules (MTs). To couple ATP hydrolysis to a mechanical step, a dynein monomer must be released from the MT before undergoing a conformational change that generates a bias towards the minus end. However, the dynamics of dynein stepping have been poorly characterized by tracking flexible regions of the motor with limited resolution. Here, we developed a cysteine-light mutant of yeast dynein and site-specifically labeled its MT-binding domain in vitro. MINFLUX tracking at sub-millisecond resolution revealed that dynein hydrolyzes one ATP per step and takes multitudes of 8 nm steps at physiological ATP. Steps are preceded by the transient movement towards the plus end. We propose that these backward “dips” correspond to MT release and subsequent diffusion of the stepping monomer around its MT-bound partner before taking a minus-end-directed conformational change of its linker. Our results reveal the order of sub-millisecond events that result in a productive step of dynein.
Queens from a unique hyper-denseLasius nigerpopulation tolerate pleometrosis better than queens from a ‘normal’ population
Authors: Stukalyuk Stanislav , Czaczkes Tomer
Published: July 2024

The claustral, monogynous antLasius nigeroften founds colonies pleometrotically (with two or more queens), but later aggression from queens or workers can result in the death of all but one queen. Recently, a hyper-dense population ofL. nigerwas discovered, showing minimal worker-worker aggression and interconnected colonies. Here, we ask whether queens are more tolerant of conspecifics in a pleometrotic setting. We collected queens directly after a nuptial flight from both the hyper-dense population and a ‘normal’ population, maintained them in pleometrotic groups, and followed queen survival for 227 days. While queens from the ‘normal’ population showed poor survival (under 20% survival after 130 days), resulting in usually one queen per pleometrotic group, 75% of queens from the hyperdense population survived to 227 days. Mortality in the ‘normal’ population was not centered around the emergence of the first workers. While the colonies from the hyper-dense population are all monogynous, this tolerance of pleometrosis may be linked to their apparent intraspecific tolerance and may be a step towards unicoloniality.
The microRNA156/SPL9module mediates auxin response to facilitate apical hook maintenance inArabidopsis
Authors: Pierdona Flaviani G. , de Moraes Silva Ana Julia , Vicente Mateus Henrique , Taylor Laura , Pedmale Ullas , Nogueira Fabio T. S.
Published: July 2024

Auxin coordinates cell growth by promoting or inhibiting cell expansion during etiolated seedling development, but whether and how microRNA modules participate in this process remains unclear. Here, we show the miRNA156/SQUAMOSA PROMOTER-BINDING-PROTEIN-LIKE9(miR156/SPL9) module is critical for skotomorphogenesis. Perturbation of the miR156/SPL9module affected skotomorphogenesis, as the loss of miR156 function orSPL9de-repression led to shorter hypocotyl, higher hook angle, and delayed hook opening. Opposing phenotypes were observed in dark-grownspl9and miR156-overexpressing seedlings. Importantly, loss of miR156-dependentSPL9regulation triggered apical hook formation even under reduced levels of endogenous auxin. miR156-targetedSPL9arrested cell expansion by repressingsmall auxin-up RNA19(SAUR19) gene in aFRUITFULL(FUL)-dependent and independent manner. The conserved miR156/SPL9/15module also affects skotomorphogenesis in tomato, impacting its successful soil emergence. Our findings unravel how the miR156/SPL9module plays a pivotal role in the auxin network coordinating apical hook development to enable appropriate seedling emergence.
A ternary Neurexin-T178-PTPR complex represents a core-module of neuronal synapse organization
Authors: Thivaios Spyros , Schwenk Jochen , Brechet Aline , Boudkkazi Sami , Henneken Phil , Kocylowski Maciej K. , Haupt Alexander , Kaminski Debora , van den Broucke Jean-Baptiste , Schreiner Dietmar , Schulte Uwe , Sterky Fredrik H. , Yuzaki Michisuke , Scheiffele Peter , Fakler Bernd
Published: July 2024

Complexes of synaptic adhesion molecules instruct the formation, functional specification and plasticity of neuronal synapses. Proteomic and candidate gene studies have identified an array of synaptic adhesion molecules that may cooperate or provide independent columns connecting synaptic compartments, thereby, promoting the nucleation of presynaptic active zones and recruitment of postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptors.

Here, we used a systematic large-scale multi-epitope affinity-purification approach (total of >120 purifications with 30 target proteins), combined with quantitative mass spectrometry to comprehensively map trans-synaptic protein networks in the mouse brain. We discover a universal presynaptic core-module consisting of the neurexin proteins and LAR-type receptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPRD,S,F), linked by the tetraspanin proteins T178A, B. These ternary Neurexin-T178-PTPR complexes form through their trans-membrane domains and assemble during biogenesis in the ER. Loss of T178B results in module dissociation and loss of LAR-PTPRs. At synapses, the Neurexin-T178-PTPR module recruits stable trans-synaptic protein networks with specific pre- and post-synaptic partners and secreted extracellular linkers. These networks encompass stable associations with unique postsynaptic GABAergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitter receptor complexes, identifying the Neurexin-T178-PTPR module as a central, universal integrator of trans-synaptic signaling in the central nervous system.
Untargeted metabolomics reveals anion and organ-specific biochemistry of salinity tolerance in willow
Authors: Sas Eszter , Frémont Adrien , Gonzalez Emmanuel , Sarrazin Mathieu , Barnabé Simon , Labrecque Michel , Brereton Nicholas James Beresford , Pitre Frédéric Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

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Willows can alleviate soil salinisation while generating sustainable feedstock for biorefinery, yet the metabolomic adaptations underlying their salt tolerance remain poorly understood. Testing two environmentally abundant salts, the response ofSalix miyabeanawas assessed after treatment with a moderate concentration of NaCl, and both moderate and high concentrations of Na2SO4in a 12-week pot trial. Willows tolerated salts across all treatments (up to 9.1dS m-1soil ECe), maintaining photosynthesis and biomass while selectively partitioning ions, confining Na+to roots and accumulating Cl-and SO2-in the canopy, and adapting to osmotic stress via reduced stomatal conductance. Untargeted LC-MS/MS captured over 5,000 putative compounds, characterising the baseline willow metabolome, including 278 core compounds constitutively produced across organs. Comparative statistical analyses revealed widespread metabolic reprogramming in response to soil salinity, altering 28% of the overall metabolome, and highlighting organ-tailored regulation. Comparing both salt forms at equimolar sodium, generalised salinity responses were limited to 3% of the metabolome, predominantly in roots. Anion-specific metabolomic responses were more extensive, with NaCl reducing carbohydrates and TCA intermediates, thereby exerting pressure on carbon and energy resources, alongside the accumulation of root structuring compounds, antioxidants flavonoids, and fatty acids. In contrast, Na2SO4salinity triggered accumulation of sulphur-containing larger peptides, suggesting that excess sulphate incorporation leverage ion toxicity to produce specialized salt-tolerance associated metabolites. This high-depth picture of the willow metabolome underscores the importance of capturing plant adaptations to salt stress at organ-scale and considering ion-specific contributions to soil salinity.
Antiparasitic effect of peptoids againstCryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Lamont Bridget , Russell Bruce M , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Nielsen Josefine Eilsø , Sørensen Kristian , Yung Deborah , Barron Annelise E. , Pletzer Daniel , Muhsin-Sharafaldine Morad-Remy
Published: July 2024

Cryptosporidiosis, caused byCryptosporidium parvum, poses significant health risks, particularly for children and immunocompromised individuals. Current treatments are ineffective in these vulnerable groups. This study explores the antiparasitic effects of againstC. parvum. Out of 14 synthetic peptidomimetics (peptoids) screened, TM9 and TM19 exhibited potent anti-cryptosporidial activity without harming host cells. These findings suggest that peptoids could be a promising new therapeutic avenue for cryptosporidiosis, warranting further investigation.
Reprograming gene expression in “hibernating”C. elegansinvolves the IRE-1/XBP-1 pathway
Authors: Engelfriet Melanie L. , Guo Yanwu , Arnold Andreas , Valen Eivind , Ciosk Rafal
Published: July 2024

In nature, many animals respond to cold by entering hibernation, while in clinical settings, controlled cooling is used in transplantation and emergency medicine. However, the molecular mechanisms that enable cells to survive severe cold are still not fully understood. One key aspect of cold adaptation is the global downregulation of protein synthesis. Studying it in the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans, we find that the translation of most mRNAs continues in the cold, albeit at a slower rate, and propose that cold-specific gene expression is regulated primarily at the transcription level. Supporting this idea, we found that the transcription of certain cold-induced genes is linked to the activation of unfolded protein response (UPR) through the conserved IRE-1/XBP-1 signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that this pathway is triggered by cold-induced perturbations in proteins and lipids within the endoplasmic reticulum, and that its activation is beneficial for cold survival.
Analysis of mixtures of birds and insects in weather radar data
Authors: Shi Xu , Drucker Jacob , Chapman Jason W. , Sanchez Herrera Melissa , Dokter Adriaan M.
Published: July 2024

Weather radars are increasingly used to study the spatial-temporal dynamics of airborne birds and insects. These two taxa often co-occur and separating their contributions remains a major analytical challenge. Most studies have restricted analyses to locations, seasons, and periods when one or the other taxa dominates. In this study, we describe an analytical method to estimate the proportion of birds and insects from vertical profiles of biological reflectivities, using a minimal number of assumptions on the airspeeds of birds and insects. We evaluated our method on understudied regions where airborne insect density is too high for existing approaches of studying bird migration with weather radars: the tropics (Colombia) and the southern temperate zone (Southeast Australia). Our method estimates that bird and insect signals routinely reach similar magnitudes in these regions. Retrieved patterns across daily and annual cycles reflected expected biological patterns that are indicative of migratory and non-migratory movements in both climates and migration systems. Compared to fixed airspeed thresholding, we obtain finer separation and retain more spatial-temporal complexity that is crucial to revealing aerial habitat use of both taxa. Our analytical procedure is readily implemented into existing software, empowering ecologists to explore aerial ecosystems outside the northern temperate zone, as well as diurnal migration of birds and insects that remains heavily understudied.

Lay summary

We developed a new method to differentiate between birds and insects in weather radar data.

This method uses minimal assumptions about the flight speeds of birds and insects.

We tested the method in regions with high insect density: the tropics (Colombia) and southern temperate zone (Southeast Australia).

Our method estimated proportions of birds and insects that captured expected patterns of daily and annual movements, which were indicative of migratory and non-migratory movement of both taxa.

Unlike fixed airspeed criteria for bird and insect separation, our approach provides a more detailed understanding of aerial habitat use by both birds and insects.

This method can be easily added to existing software, helping ecologists study bird and insect movements in less-studied areas and ecosystems.