bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Left ventricular volumes and function in successful and failed His‐BundLe Pacing. A comparative prospective study
Authors: Notaristefano Francesco , Barengo Alberto , Spighi Lorenzo , Piraccini Silvia , Freschini Manuel , Sforna Stefano , Pesce Federica , Giuffrè Giuseppe , Bagnacani Alessandra , D'Ammando Matteo , Zingarini Gianluca , Notaristefano Salvatore , Cavallini Claudio , Verdecchia Paolo , Sclafani Rocco , Angeli Fabio
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Initial data suggest that His Bundle Pacing (HBP) could preserve long‐term cardiac structure and function better than Right Ventricular Pacing (RVP), but evidence is limited.

Methods

We studied consecutive patients with baseline ejection fraction (EF) ≥ 50% who underwent HBP attempt, either successful (HBP group) or failed (RVP group). Two‐dimensional (2D) and three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiography were carried out at baseline and after 6 months of ventricular pacing burden > 20%.

Results

Among 68 patients, 40 underwent successful HBP, and 28 RVP. The HBP and RVP groups did not differ for age, sex and pacing indication. At baseline, the HBP and RVP groups did not differ for 2D EF (62% vs. 62%), 3D EF (60% vs. 63%), 2D (−19% vs. −19%) and 3D global longitudinal strain (GLS) (−15% vs. −16%). After 6 months, 2D EF (−3.86%) and 3D EF (−5.71%) significantly decreased in the RVP group and did not change in the HBP group (p for interaction .006 and <.001, respectively). 2D GLS (3.08%) and 3D GLS (2.22%) significantly increased in the RVP group, but did not change in the HBP group (p for interaction .013 and <.016, respectively). Pacing induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) (EF drop ≥ 10% and EF < 50%) occurred in 14% (RVP) versus 0% (HBP) of patients (p = .025).

Conclusions

Successful HBP was superior to RVP in preserving LV systolic function despite a high ventricular pacing burden, and was less frequently associated with PICM.
The interplay of maternal and paternal postpartum depressive symptoms with children's internalizing and externalizing symptoms from childhood to adolescence: does socioeconomic status matter? A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Clément Myriam , Ahun Marilyn N. , Orri Massimiliano , Montreuil Tina C. , St‐André Martin , Herba Catherine M. , Moullec Gregory , Côté Sylvana M
Published: September 2024

Background

Maternal postpartum depression is an important risk factor for internalizing and externalizing problems in children. The role of concurrent paternal depression remains unclear, especially by socioeconomic status. This study examined independent and interactive associations of postpartum maternal and paternal depression with children's internalizing/externalizing symptoms throughout childhood and adolescence (ages 3.5–17 years).

Methods

We used data from the Québec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, a representative birth cohort (1997–1998) in Canada. Data included self‐reported maternal and paternal depressive symptoms at 5 months' postpartum using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Internalizing and externalizing symptoms in children were reported by parents, teachers and children/adolescents using the Social Behaviour Questionnaire (ages 3.5–13 years) and the Mental Health and Social Inadaptation Assessment for Adolescents (ages 15–17 years). We used three‐level mixed effects modelling to test associations after adjusting for confounding factors.

Results

With 168 single‐parent families excluded, our sample consisted of 1,700 families with useable data. Of these, 275 (16.2%) families reported maternal depression (clinically elevated symptoms), 135 (7.9%) paternal depression and 39 (2.3%) both. In families with high socioeconomic status, maternal depression was associated with greater child internalizing (β = .34; p < .001) and externalizing symptoms (β = .22; p = .002), regardless of the presence/absence of paternal depression. In families with low socioeconomic status, associations with symptoms were stronger with concurrent paternal depression (internalizing, β = .84, p < .001; externalizing, β = .71, p = .003) than without (internalizing, β = .30, p < .001; externalizing, β = .24, p = .002).

Conclusions

Maternal depression increases the risk for children's internalizing/externalizing problems in all socioeconomic contexts. In families with low socioeconomic status, risks were exacerbated by concurrent paternal depression. Postpartum depression, especially in low socioeconomic environments, should be a primary focus to optimize mental health across generations.
Skinformatics: Navigating the big data landscape of dermatology
Authors: Guermazi Dorra , Shah Asghar , Yumeen Sara , Vance Terrence , Saliba Elie
Published: September 2024

Big data and associated approaches to analyse it are on the rise, especially in healthcare settings. This growth is also seen with unique applications in the field of dermatology. While big data offer a plethora of opportunity for improving our current understanding of disease and ability to deliver care, as with any technology innovation, the potential pitfalls should be addressed. In this piece, we highlight opportunities and challenges associated with big data in dermatology. Opportunities include large and novel data sources that may offer a wealth of information, automated detection, classification and diagnostics and improved public health monitoring. Challenges include data quality, issues of interpretability and disparities within artificial intelligence (AI) training data sets. Clinicians and researchers in the field should be aware of these developments within the field of big data to understand how best it may be used toward improving patient care and health outcomes, particularly in the field of dermatology.
Designing an integrated care pathway for spondyloarthritis: A Lean Thinking approach
Authors: Lobo‐Prat David , Sainz Luis , Laiz Ana , De Dios Anna , Fontcuberta Lalis , Fernández Susana , Masip Montserrat , Riera Pau , Pagès‐Puigdemont Neus , Ros Sandra , Gomis‐Pastor Mar , Corominas Hèctor
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Integrated care pathways (ICPs) are crucial for delivering individualised care. However, the development of ICPs is challenging and must be well designed to provide the expected benefits. Regarding this, healthcare organisations are increasingly adopting management systems based on Lean Thinking to improve their organisational processes by eliminating non‐value‐added steps. This study elucidates the process and evaluates the impact of applying Lean Thinking to redesign an ICP for patients with spondyloarthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting young adults.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team was assembled and trained in Lean Thinking. Patient's perspective was gathered through a focus group. Guided by an expert methodologist, the team constructed a value stream map of the entire care pathway and analysed each step. Five work streams were defined to increase value at each step, leading to targeted process improvements. Key process and outcome metrics were collected and compared in 2‐month baseline and post‐implementation audits.

Results

A total of 118 patients were included in the baseline audit (September–October 2022), and 116 in the post‐implementation audit (January–February 2023). Process redesign resulted in statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05), including a reduction in the mean number of hospital visits per patient over a 2‐month period from 2.54 (SD = 0.93) to 1.84 (SD = 0.79), an increase in complementary exams scheduled on the same day (81.4% to 94.8%) and an increase in baseline disease and treatment education (from 22.2% to 84.2% and from 18.2% to 84.6%, respectively). Regarding standardisation of clinical practice, there were significant increases in collecting data for medical records on composite activity indices (76.3% to 95.7%), reporting of pharmacological treatment adherence (68.6% to 94%) and providing nonpharmacological recommendations (31.3% to 95.7%).

Conclusions

The application of Lean Thinking to redesign the spondyloarthritis ICP led to significant improvements in outpatient appointment scheduling, reduced patient hospital visits, improved interdepartmental coordination and standardised clinical practice.
MetMiner: A user‐friendly pipeline for large‐scale plant metabolomics data analysis
Authors: Wang Xiao , Liang Shuang , Yang Wenqi , Yu Ke , Liang Fei , Zhao Bing , Zhu Xiang , Zhou Chao , Mur Luis A. J. , Roberts Jeremy A. , Zhang Junli , Zhang Xuebin
Published: September 2024

The utilization of metabolomics approaches to explore the metabolic mechanisms underlying plant fitness and adaptation to dynamic environments is growing, highlighting the need for an efficient and user‐friendly toolkit tailored for analyzing the extensive datasets generated by metabolomics studies. Current protocols for metabolome data analysis often struggle with handling large‐scale datasets or require programming skills. To address this, we present MetMiner (https://github.com/ShawnWx2019/MetMiner), a user‐friendly, full‐functionality pipeline specifically designed for plant metabolomics data analysis. Built on R shiny, MetMiner can be deployed on servers to utilize additional computational resources for processing large‐scale datasets. MetMiner ensures transparency, traceability, and reproducibility throughout the analytical process. Its intuitive interface provides robust data interaction and graphical capabilities, enabling users without prior programming skills to engage deeply in data analysis. Additionally, we constructed and integrated a plant‐specific mass spectrometry database into the MetMiner pipeline to optimize metabolite annotation. We have also developed MDAtoolkits, which include a complete set of tools for statistical analysis, metabolite classification, and enrichment analysis, to facilitate the mining of biological meaning from the datasets. Moreover, we propose an iterative weighted gene co‐expression network analysis strategy for efficient biomarker metabolite screening in large‐scale metabolomics data mining. In two case studies, we validated MetMiner's efficiency in data mining and robustness in metabolite annotation. Together, the MetMiner pipeline represents a promising solution for plant metabolomics analysis, providing a valuable tool for the scientific community to use with ease.
Are adolescents with premenstrual disorder at risk for cardiac arrhythmias?
Authors: Akbulut Ozlem , Ertugrul Ilker , Pehlivantürk‐Kızılkan Melis , Oztürk Musa , Sencelikel Tugce , Derman Orhan , Akgül Sinem
Published: September 2024

Background

One of the most commonly experienced symptoms of premenstrual disorder (PMD) is anxiety, and there is a notable rise in sympathomimetic activity in this patient group. Studies have linked fluctuations in systemic autonomic tone to electrocardiography (ECG) changes. This study aims to investigate the relationship between anxiety, a common symptom of PMD, and alterations in QT dispersion (QTd) and P‐wave dispersion (Pd) in adolescent females.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included female adolescents aged 12–18 with regular menstruation for at least 3 months. Participants completed the premenstrual syndrome scale (PMSS) and were divided into two groups, PMD and control, according to the PMSS score. A standard 12‐lead body surface ECG was performed and QTd and Pd values were determined in each participant.

Results

Of the 43 participants, 27 were categorized into the PMD group, with a mean age of 15.15 ± 1.43 years. Age at menarche and menstrual cycle patterns were comparable between the PMD and control groups. Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher Pmin (p = 0.010) and Pd values (p < 0.001) in the PMD group compared to controls. A positive correlation between PMSS scores and Pd (p = 0.049) was also observed.

Conclusions

Changes in atrial conduction and ventricular repolarization due to the pathophysiology of PMD may increase the risk of developing atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias over time. Screening patients with PMD using an ECG may be useful in identifying potentially at‐risk adolescents.
African American English, racialized femininities, and Asian American identity in Ali Wong's Baby Cobra
Authors: Calhoun Kendra , Yoo Joyhanna
Published: September 2024

We analyze Asian American comedian Ali Wong's linguistic and embodied performance in her 2016 stand‐up special, Baby Cobra, through a genre‐specific lens to investigate how stand‐up comedy's performance conventions shape her comedic persona. We argue that Wong uses communicative forms indexically associated with Blackness to perform racialized and gendered figures of personhood, including the white “Karen,” “sassy Black woman,” and “Asian grandmother.” This performance allows Wong to challenge hegemonic whiteness and dominant racializations of Asian women but relies on signs potentially interpreted as reproducing anti‐Black ideologies. We situate Wong as an individual performer, “Asian American” as an ethnoracial category vis‐à‐vis Blackness, and the linguistic practices of Asian and Black American communities within racial capitalist histories that have shaped contemporary raciolinguistic ideologies. Rather than approach language varieties and racialized groups as necessarily distinct, we treat them as relational—as necessarily intimately and historically connected.
Associations between disability type and untreated dental decay among community dwelling US adults
Authors: Singh Ishita , Li Xiaobai , Iafolla Timothy J. , Boroumand Shahdokht , Alraqiq Hosam
Published: September 2024

Objective

Individuals with disabilities face elevated risks of adverse oral health outcomes compared with the general population, including worse periodontal health, increased edentulism, and untreated dental decay. Given the varied impacts of different disabilities on people's health and well‐being, this study aims to investigate diverse associations between untreated decay and cognitive, physical, emotional, and sensory disabilities among US adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study analyzed questionnaire and clinical examination data on 7084 adults (≥20 years) from the 2015–18 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles. Sociodemographics, oral health behaviors, health conditions, and disability were all examined. The prevalence of tooth decay was calculated as the proportion of adults with untreated decay. Survey‐weighted multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between disability and untreated decay.

Results

In general, untreated decay was more than twice as prevalent in individuals with three or more disabilities as in those without any disabilities (34.5% vs. 13.2%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, lack of functional dentition was the most significant predictor of untreated decay prevalence (adjusted odds ratio: 2.97, 95% CI: 2.37–3.72). Other significant factors were younger age (20–44), non‐Hispanic black race or ethnicity, low‐income status, having an underlying chronic condition, not having a past‐year dental visit, symptomatic dental visits, and current tobacco use.

Conclusion

No associations were found between disability type (cognitive, emotional, physical, and sensory) and untreated decay among community‐dwelling US adults. Several health‐related, social, and behavioral factors emerged as primary predictors of untreated decay. Further research is needed to explore disability types and dental caries determinants.
Effects of Partial Replacement of Corn Grains With Mango Seed Kernel on Nutrient Digestibility, Blood Metabolites and Rumen Parameters of Growing Calves
Authors: Riad Wasef A. , El‐Hais Abdelaziz M. , Soliman Ahmed A. , El Esawy Ghada S. , Atia Safaa E. S. , Khattab Ibrahim M.
Published: September 2024

Fruit by‐products are a sustainable and cost‐effective alternative to traditional grain feed for livestock. One of the most important by‐products is mango seed kernel (MSK), which can be used as a valuable energy source for feeding growing calves in the tropical and subtropical productive regions of the world. This study investigated the effect of replacing corn grains (CGs) with MSK on intake, nutrient digestibility, blood metabolites and rumen parameters. Eighteen growing male Friesian calves (200 ± 6.55 kg of body weight and 9–11 months old) were randomly assigned to three treatment groups. Three concentrate feed mixtures were formulated such that MSK replaced CG at 0%, 25% and 50%. Dry matter intake was unaffected, whereas dry matter, organic matter and fibre digestibility increased linearly (p < 0.05) with increased inclusion of MSK. Ruminal pH (p = 0.053) and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration (p = 0.041) increased linearly. There was a linear decrease in cholesterol (p = 0.029) and AST (p = 0.028) levels in the blood of calves. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the positive effect of replacing 50% of CG with MSK on rumen parameters, including a higher ruminal pH and total VFA concentration, alongside higher nutrient digestibility. The dietary inclusion of mango seed can serve as a valuable and sustainable dietary component for growing calves.
Dynamic Changes in ELF Score Predict Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients Receiving Antiviral Treatment
Authors: Liang Lilian Yan , Yip Terry Cheuk‐Fung , Lai Jimmy Che‐To , Lam Amy Shuk‐Man , Tse Yee‐Kit , Hui Vicki Wing‐Ki , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung
Published: September 2024

Enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) score is a noninvasive assessment for liver fibrosis. We aimed to evaluate the performance of changes in ELF score 3 years apart in combination with liver stiffness measurement (LSM)‐hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) score to predict HCC in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. This is a prospective cohort study. Patients who underwent transient elastography (TE) examinations and at intermediate or high risk of HCC defined by LSM‐HCC score were invited to repeat the examination about 3 years later. Their serum samples at these two time points were retrieved to assess the ELF score changes. The primary endpoint was HCC. There were 445 CHB patients (males: 73.9%; mean age: 51.6 ± 10.3 years) who received two TE examinations and ELF scores. Among them, 252 (56.6%) and 193 (43.4%) patients were at intermediate and high HCC risk at first assessment defined by LSM‐HCC score, respectively. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the changes in ELF score could stratify the HCC risk in both intermediate‐ and high‐risk patients defined by LSM‐HCC score (p < 0.001 for intermediate‐risk group; p = 0.011 for high‐risk group). Patients remained having mild or moderate fibrosis at both assessments had the lowest risk of HCC (4.0%), followed by patients with fibrosis regressed (11.3%; p = 0.014) during a mean follow‐up of 163 months. Patients remained having or progressed to severe fibrosis were at highest risk of HCC (> 20%). Consistent findings were demonstrated in patients at both intermediate and high risk of HCC defined by LSM‐HCC score. Dynamic changes in ELF score provided additional value to LSM‐HCC score for stratifying HCC risk in CHB patients.
Root‐knot nematodes exploit the catalase‐like effector to manipulate plant reactive oxygen species levels by directly degrading H2O2
Authors: Zhu Zhaolu , Dai Dadong , Zheng Mengzhuo , Shi Yiling , Siddique Shahid , Wang Feifan , Zhang Shurong , Xie Chuanshuai , Bo Dexin , Hu Boyan , Chen Yangyang , Peng Donghai , Sun Ming , Zheng Jinshui
Published: September 2024

Plants produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon infection, which typically trigger defence mechanisms and impede pathogen proliferation. Root‐knot nematodes (RKNs, Meloidogyne spp.) represent highly detrimental pathogens capable of parasitizing a broad spectrum of crops, resulting in substantial annual agricultural losses. The involvement of ROS in RKN parasitism is well acknowledged. In this study, we identified a novel effector from Meloidogyne incognita, named CATLe, that contains a conserved catalase domain, exhibiting potential functions in regulating host ROS levels. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that CATLe is conserved across RKNs. Temporal and spatial expression assays showed that the CATLe gene was specifically up‐regulated at the early infection stages and accumulated in the subventral oesophageal gland cells of M. incognita. Immunolocalization demonstrated that CATLe was secreted into the giant cells of the host plant during M. incognita parasitism. Transient expression of CATLe significantly dampened the flg22‐induced ROS production in Nicotiana benthamiana. In planta assays confirmed that M. incognita can exploit CATLe to manipulate host ROS levels by directly degrading H2O2. Additionally, interfering with expression of the CATLe gene through double‐stranded RNA soaking and host‐induced gene silencing significantly attenuated M. incognita parasitism, highlighting the important role of CATLe. Taken together, our results suggest that RKNs can directly degrade ROS products using a functional catalase, thereby manipulating host ROS levels and facilitating parasitism.
Checklist of the genus Dendrophorbium (Senecioneae: Compositae) in Peru including a new combination and a new species
Authors: Montesinos‐Tubée Daniel B.
Published: September 2024

The genus Dendrophorbium occurs in South America with one species known from the Caribbean. Despite recent advances in taxonomy and phylogeny, there is a still lack of molecular studies on the delimitation and identification of the genus. Dendrophorbium is known to occupy a wide range of ecosystems mostly restricted to subtropical montane forests and montane scrub vegetation of the central Andes. In this study, a review of the species occurring in Peru is presented, in addition to material examined at different herbaria. The new combination D. ligulatum which is separated from D. yalusay, and the new species, D. arachnoideum is described from the department of Huánuco in central Peru. The species are assessed using the standards of the IUCN and additional notes are given.
Lectotypification of Ceropegia driophila (Apocynaceae) and proposal of Ceropegia paohsingensis as a heterotypic synonym
Authors: Luo Pengrui , Yang Qiyi , Huang Xianhan , Zhang Xinjian , Tan Jinbo , Tu Tie‐Yao , Goyder David J. , Gilbert Michael G. , Deng Tao , Sun Hang
Published: September 2024

This study aims to clarify the long‐standing confusion between Ceropegia paohsingensis and C. driophila and to propose the reclassification of C. paohsingensis as a heterotypic synonym of C. driophila. Additionally, we reconsider the types for C. driophila and present a detailed description of the species.
Exploring the botany and pharmacology of the genus Conamomum Ridl. (Zingiberaceae)
Authors: Chen Tran Van , Boonma Thawatphong , Triet Nguyen Thanh , Phan Nguyen Duc Duong , Trong Nghia Nguyen , Saensouk Surapon , Thi Thu Hien Nguyen
Published: September 2024

The members of the genus Conamomum Ridl. (Zingiberaceae) are primarily distributed from Indochina to western Malesia. Knowledge of the distribution of species of Conamomum is important for conservation and natural resource management. The objective of this review is to comprehensively summarise the morphological characteristics, distribution, ecology, diversity, and potential pharmacological effects of Conamomum species worldwide. The current study also provides a scientific reference for future applications by comprehensively reviewing the literature from 1892 to 2024 via several scientific databases, such as Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Springer, and other online databases. A cluster analysis conducted on 12 species of Conamomum provides valuable insights into their morphological similarities and distribution patterns. Conamomum cylindrostachys and C. flavidulum have anther crests that are horned and 2‐lobed, contrasting with the horned and 3‐lobed anther crests observed in other Conamomum species. Regarding distribution, three species – C. odorum, C. rubidum, and C. Vietnamense – are endemic to Vietnam, while C. spiceum and C. flavidulum are both endemic to Malaysia. A key to species of Conamomum based on the morphology is provided. Extracts and isolated compounds from Conamomum plants, mainly essential oils, have been assessed to possess numerous pharmacological properties, such as anti‐inflammatory, anti‐bacterial, anti‐fungal, anti‐larvicidal, and cytotoxic activities. This review provides valuable insights into the morphological, ecological, and pharmacological properties as well as the diversification of Conamomum and identifies the ecological adaptations specific to their habitat in this region. These findings are valuable resources for conservation efforts, sustainable utilization, and future studies.
Corydalis miaotaiensis sp. nov. (Papaveraceae) from the Qinling‐Daba mountains region, central China
Authors: Wang Dong , Xu Xiaodong , Li Niya , Wang Liang
Published: September 2024

Corydalis miaotaiensis (Papaveraceae), a new species from the Qinling‐Daba mountains region, central China, is described. It is similar to Corydalis ternatifolia C.Y. Wu, Z.Y. Su & Lidén, but differs from the latter in the crested (versus ecristate) outer petals, unbranched, suberect to erect (versus branched, ascending) stems, bipinnate (versus biternate) rosette leaves, and in the presence (versus absence) of axillary bulbils, long stolons, and long shoots. Corydalis miaotaiensis exhibits a notable growth pattern, initially suberect to erect but gradually transitioning to wholly decumbent with its developed stolons and long shoots, rendering it distinctive within the genus Corydalis. This underscores the need to consider growth habit when describing Corydalis species. An identification key to C. miaotaiensis and related species is provided.
The Growth Effect of State Capacity Revisited
Authors: Vu Trung V.
Published: September 2024

I provide new empirical estimates of the effect of state capacity on economic development across countries over the period 1960–2022. Specifically, I construct a comprehensive state capacity index based on six different dimensions of effective state institutions available in the Varieties of Democracy (V‐Dem) dataset. Then, I estimate heterogeneous parameter models under a common factor framework. My empirical strategy explicitly allows the growth effect of state capacity to differ across countries and accounts for unobserved common factors. My preferred estimates indicate that a one‐standard‐deviation increase in the V‐Dem‐based state capacity index predicts a rise in income per person by roughly 6%–7%. The magnitude of such impact equates to less than half of that implied by conventional estimates obtained under highly restrictive assumptions of slope homogeneity and cross‐sectional independence. Furthermore, I provide partial evidence suggesting that worldwide heterogeneity in the economic importance of state capacity is deeply rooted in prehistorically determined population diversity, state history, long‐term relatedness between countries, and interpersonal trust.
Three‐Dimensional Printing Technology Based on Digital Orthopedics: 5‐Point Positioning Point‐Contact Pedicle Navigation Template in the Case of Scoliosis and Complex Pedicle
Authors: Chen Qiling , Luo Chunshan , Lu Tingsheng , Yao Shudan , Pu Xingwei , Yang Minglu , Chen Lu , Wang Lihang
Published: September 2024

Objective

Imperfect fitting of the navigation template leads to prolonged surgery time and increased blood loss. These problems have not been effectively addressed in previous research. This study explores the efficacy of a novel 5‐point positioning point‐contact pedicle navigation template in complex pedicle situations in scoliosis.

Methods

This study employed a retrospective controlled design. From November 2019 to November 2023, 28 patients with scoliosis and complex pedicle were selected and underwent scoliosis correction surgery. A 5‐point positioning point‐contact pedicle navigation template was used intraoperatively to guide pedicle screw placement. Matched with 56 historical cases as a control group. The analysis included screw placement time, screw placement bleeding volume, fluoroscopy frequency, manual repositioning frequency, screw placement accuracy and grade, screw placement complications, and main curve correction rate. Continuous variables were compared using the independent samples t‐test. Categorical data were analyzed with the chi‐square test.

Results

All 28 patients successfully underwent surgery, with a total of 268 pedicle screws placed. The surgery duration ranged from 220 to 410 min, with an average of (283.16 ± 51.26) min. Intraoperative blood loss ranged from 630 to 1900 mL, with an average of (902.17 ± 361.25) mL. Pedicle screw placement time ranged from 60 to 130 min, with an average of (85.24 ± 24.65) min. Pedicle screw placement bleeding volume ranged from 40 to 180 mL, with an average of (76.47 ± 42.65) mL. Fluoroscopy frequency ranged from 3 to 7 times, with an average of (4.31 ± 1.14) times. Manual repositioning frequency ranged from 0 to 2 times, with an average of (0.46 ± 0.58) times. Pedicle screw placement grades: Grade I: 237 screws; Grade II: 25 screws; Grade III: 6 screws; Grade IV: 0 screws. There were no screw‐related complications. The correction rate ranged from 46% to 68%, with an average of (55.83 ± 9.22)%. Compared to the experienced screw group, the differences in screw placement time, screw placement bleeding volume, fluoroscopy procedures, and manual redirections were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The 5‐point positioning point‐contact pedicle navigation template features a claw‐like structure that securely adapts to various deformed vertebral facet joints, avoiding drift phenomena and ensuring accurate screw placement. Its pointed contact structure with the lamina of the spine avoids extensive and complete detachment of posterior structures, reducing blood loss, surgery time, and trauma. Predesigned pedicle screw entry points and directions reduce fluoroscopy frequency and surgery time.
How to Set Working Cannula in Endoscopic‐Assisted Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Morphometric Analysis Based on Computed Tomography
Authors: Zhou Conghui , Lou Junsheng , Fan Yunpeng , Guo Ziyi , Shen Honghao , Jin Mengran , Wu Junsong
Published: September 2024

Objectives

There is a high risk of nerve root injury during endoscopic‐assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo‐TLIF). This study used computed tomography (CT) imaging to assess the relationship between the exiting nerve root and its surroundings, and the corresponding intervertebral disc. We also measured the approximate position and angle for the placement of the working cannula to reduce the risk of nerve root injury during Endo‐TLIF procedures in the Chinese population.

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at our institution between December 2021 and December 2022. A total of 115 patients suffering from low back pain were recruited for the study. For each participant, three‐dimensional (3D) vertebral models of the lumbar segments from L3 to S1 were constructed based on their CT images. The nerve root–disc distance, cannula insertion bypass distance and angle, foraminal height and width, exiting nerve root height, and nerve root–pedicle distance were measured. A paired t‐test was used to compare measurements between the left and right sides, while inter‐ and intraobserver reproducibility was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

From L3/4 to L5/S1 segments, the ideal cannula insertion distance range was 37.51 ± 4.91–120.38 ± 37.71 mm at L3/4; 42.38 ± 5.29–116.25 ± 27.22 mm at L4/5; and 37.78 ± 4.86–69.26 ± 12.64 mm at L5/S1. The appropriate cannula insertion angle range was 30.86° ± 5.05°–62.59° ± 6.66° at L3/4; 34.30° ± 4.73°–60.88° ± 7.34° at L4/5; and 35.89° ± 4.18°–47.65° ± 7.38° at L5/S1. The height of the intervertebral foramen (IVF) gradually decreased, and the width steadily increased. The exiting nerve root height and the nerve root–pedicle distance slightly decreased caudally.

Conclusion

From L3/4 to L5/S1, the range of working cannula insertion distance and angle gradually decreased, and the exiting nerve root height occupying the IVF gradually increased. Our measurement can reduce the risk of nerve root injury caused by inserting the working cannula during Endo‐TLIF.
Spatial and Temporal Freezing Dynamics of Leaves Revealed by Time‐Lapse Imaging
Authors: Kane Cade N. , McAdam Scott A. M.
Published: September 2024

Freezing air temperatures kill most leaves, yet the leaves of some species can survive these events. Tracking the temporal and spatial dynamics of freezing remains an impediment to characterizing frost tolerance. Here we deploye time‐lapse imaging and image subtraction analysis, coupled with fine wire thermocouples, to discern the in situ spatial dynamics of freezing and thawing. Our method of analysis of pixel brightness reveals that ice formation in leaves exposed to natural frosts initiates in mesophyll before spreading to veins, and that while ex situ xylem sap freezes near 0°C, in situ xylem sap has a freezing point of −2°C in our model freezing‐resistant species of Lonicera. Photosynthetic rates in leaves that have been exposed to a rapid freeze or thaw do not recover, but leaves exposed to a slow, natural freezing and thawing to −10°C do recover. Using this method, we are able to quantify the spatial formation and timing of freezing events in leaves, and suggest that in situ and ex situ freezing points for xylem sap can differ by more than 4°C depending on the rate of temperature decline.
Non‐specific Phospholipase C4 Improves Phosphorus Remobilization From Old to Young Leaves in Camelina
Authors: Li Jianwu , Yao Shuaibing , Jonas Marissa , Kim Sang Chul , Wang Xuemin
Published: September 2024

Camelina sativa is regarded as a low‐input oilseed crop for versatile food, biofuels and industrial applications with potential production on marginal lands, whereas phosphate (Pi) deficiency greatly reduces camelina seed production. To improve camelina resilience to low P conditions, here we overexpressed the Pi deficiency–induced non‐specific phospholipase C4 (NPC4) to test its effect on camelina seed production under different levels of Pi availability. NPC4–overexpressing (OE) plants displayed increased seed yield and oil production, with a greater magnitude of increases under Pi‐deficient than Pi‐sufficient conditions. NPC4‐OE camelina had a higher level of total P and free Pi in young leaves but a lower level in old leaves than in wild‐type plants. More Pi was moved from old leaves to young leaves in NPC4‐OE than in wild‐type plants. NPC4‐OE increased the expression of Pi transporter genes, and the increase was greater in old leaves and under Pi‐deficient conditions. These data indicate that NPC4 improves camelina growth by promoting Pi remobilization from old to young tissues, revealing a mechanism by which NPC4 mediates plant response to Pi deficiency.
Functional and Structural Analysis Reveals Distinct Biological Roles of Plant Synaptotagmins in Response to Environmental Stress
Authors: García‐Hernández Selene , Rubio Lourdes , Rivera‐Moreno María , Pérez‐Sancho Jessica , Morello‐López Jorge , Esteban del Valle Alicia , Benítez‐Fuente Francisco , Beuzón Carmen R. , Macho Alberto P. , Ruiz‐López Noemi , Albert Armando , Botella Miguel A.
Published: September 2024

Endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane contact sites (ER–PM CSs) are evolutionarily conserved membrane domains found in all eukaryotes, where the ER closely interfaces with the PM. This short distance is achieved in plants through the action of tether proteins such as synaptotagmins (SYTs). Arabidopsis comprises five SYT members (SYT1–SYT5), but whether they possess overlapping or distinct biological functions remains elusive. SYT1, the best‐characterized member, plays an essential role in the resistance to abiotic stress. This study reveals that the functionally redundant SYT1 and SYT3 genes, but not SYT5, are involved in salt and cold stress resistance. We also show that, unlike SYT5, SYT1 and SYT3 are not required for Pseudomonas syringae resistance. Since SYT1 and SYT5 interact in vivo via their SMP domains, the distinct functions of these proteins cannot be caused by differences in their localization. Interestingly, structural phylogenetic analysis indicates that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades emerged early in the evolution of land plants. We also show that the SYT1 and SYT5 clades exhibit different structural features in their SMP and Ca2+ binding of their C2 domains, rationalizing their distinct biological roles.
Revisiting Citrus Rootstocks Polyploidy as a Means to Improve Drought Resilience: Sometimes Less Is More
Authors: da Silva Costa Lucas , Coelho Filho Maurício Antonio , Araújo da Silva Monique Ayala , Moreira Alécio Souza , dos Santos Soares Filho Walter , Freschi Luciano , da Silva Gesteira Abelmon
Published: September 2024

Polyploid varieties have been suggested as an alternative approach to promote drought tolerance in citrus crops. In this study, we compared the responses of diploid and tetraploid Sunki ‘Tropical’ rootstocks to water deficit when grafted onto ‘Valencia’ sweet orange trees and subjected to water withholding in isolation or competition experiments under potted conditions. Our results revealed that, when grown in isolation, tetraploid rootstocks took longer to show drought symptoms, but this advantage disappeared when grown in competition under the same soil moisture conditions. The differences in drought responses were mainly associated with variations in endogenous leaf levels of abscisic acid (ABA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and carbohydrates among treatments. Overall, tetraploids were more affected by drought in individual experiments, showing higher H₂O₂ production, and in competition experiments, rapidly increasing ABA production to regulate stomatal closure and reduce water loss through transpiration. Therefore, our results highlight the crucial importance of evaluating diploid and tetraploid rootstocks under the same soil moisture conditions to better simulate field conditions, providing important insights to improve selection strategies for more resilient citrus rootstocks.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Utilization of Mediator Subunits for Crop Improvement
Authors: Zhao Haohao , Shin Doosan , Zhu Yingfang , Kim Jeongim
Published: September 2024

The Mediator complex is a multisubunit transcription coregulator that transfers regulatory signals from different transcription factors to RNA polymerase II (Pol II) to control Pol II‐dependent transcription in eukaryotes. Studies on Arabidopsis Mediator subunits have revealed their unique or overlapping functions in various aspects of plant growth, stress adaptation and metabolite homeostasis. Therefore, the utilization of the plant Mediator complex for crop improvement has been of great interest. Advances in genome editing and sequencing techniques have expedited the characterization of Mediator subunits in economically important crops such as tomato, rice, wheat, soybean, sugarcane, pea, chickpea, rapeseed and hop. In this review, we summarize recent progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of how the Mediator complex regulates crop growth, development and adaptation to environmental stress. We also discuss the conserved and diverse functions of the Mediator complex in different plant species. In addition, we propose several future research directions to deepen our understanding of the important roles of Mediator subunits and their interacting proteins, which would provide promising targets for genetic modification to develop new cultivars with desirable agronomic traits.
PlWRKY47 Coordinates With Cytosolic Glyceraldehyde‐3‐Phosphate Dehydrogenase 2 Gene to Improve Thermotolerance Through Inhibiting Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in Herbaceous Peony
Authors: Zhao Daqiu , Cheng Zhuoya , Qian Yi , Hu Ziao , Tang Yuhan , Huang Xingqi , Tao Jun
Published: September 2024

Although WRKY transcription factors play crucial roles in plant responses to high‐temperature stress, little is known about Group IIb WRKY family members. Here, we identified the WRKY‐IIb protein PlWRKY47 from herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.), which functioned as a nuclear‐localized transcriptional activator. The expression level of PlWRKY47 was positively correlated with high‐temperature tolerance. Silencing of PlWRKY47 in P. lactiflora resulted in the decreased tolerance to high‐temperature stress by accumulating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Overexpression of PlWRKY47 improved plant high‐temperature tolerance through decreasing ROS accumulation. Moreover, PlWRKY47 directly bound to the promoter of cytosolic glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase 2 (PlGAPC2) gene and activated its transcription. PlGAPC2 was also positively regulated high‐temperature tolerance in P. lactiflora by increasing NAD+ content to inhibit ROS generation. Additionally, PlWRKY47 physically interacted with itself to form a homodimer, and PlWRKY47 could also interact with one Group IIb WRKY family member PlWRKY72 to form a heterodimer, they all promoted PlWRKY47 to bind to and activate PlGAPC2. These data support that the PlWRKY47‐PlWRKY47 homodimer and PlWRKY72‐PlWRKY47 heterodimer can directly activate PlGAPC2 expression to improve high‐temperature tolerance by inhibiting ROS generation in P. lactiflora. These results will provide important insights into the plant high‐temperature stress response by WRKY‐IIb transcription factors.
Catalytic selectivity and evolution of cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in monoterpene indole alkaloids biosynthesis
Authors: Liu Zhan , Pang Jing , Li Yi , Wei Daijing , Yang Jing , Wang Xuefei , Luo Yinggang
Published: September 2024

Cytochrome P450 enzyme (CYP)‐catalyzed functional group transformations are pivotal in the biosynthesis of metabolic intermediates and products, as exemplified by the CYP‐catalyzed C7‐hydroxylation and the subsequent C7‐C8 bond cleavage reaction responsible for the biosynthesis of the well‐known antitumor monoterpene indole alkaloid (MIA) camptothecin. To determine the key amino acid residues responsible for the catalytic selectivity of the CYPs involved in MIA biosynthesis, we characterized the enzymes CYP72A728 and CYP72A729 as stereoselective 7‐deoxyloganic acid 7‐hydroxylases (7DLHs). We then conducted a comparative analysis of the amino acid sequences and the predicted structures of the CYP72A homologs involved in camptothecin biosynthesis, as well as those of the CYP72A homologs implicated in the pharmaceutically significant MIAs biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus. The crucial amino acid residues for the catalytic selectivity of the CYP72A‐catalyzed reactions were identified through fragmental and individual residue replacement, catalytic activity assays, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulations analysis. The fragments 1 and 3 of CYP72A565 were crucial for its C7‐hydroxylation and C7‐C8 bond cleavage activities. Mutating fragments 1 and 2 of CYP72A565 transformed the bifunctional CYP72A565 into a monofunctional 7DLH. Evolutionary analysis of the CYP72A homologs suggested that the bifunctional CYP72A in MIA‐producing plants may have evolved into a monofunctional CYP72A. The gene pairs CYP72A728‐CYP72A610 and CYP72A729‐CYP72A565 may have originated from a whole genome duplication event. This study provides a molecular basis for the CYP72A‐catalyzed hydroxylation and C‐C bond cleavage activities of CYP72A565, as well as evolutionary insights of CYP72A homologs involved in MIAs biosynthesis.
Tackling toxins: Case studies of industrial pollutants and implications for climate policy
Authors: Bartley Tim , Fairbrother Malcolm
Published: September 2024

As scholars race to address the climate crisis, they have often treated the problem as sui generis and have only rarely sought to learn from prior efforts to make industrial operations greener. In this paper, we consider what can be learned from other shifts away from polluting substances. Drawing on literatures on corporate regulatory strategies and evolving regulatory interactions, we argue for a focus on configurations of regulatory scrutiny and industrial reform, which we then consider through case studies of several major industrial pollutants. We consider the phaseout of ozone‐depleting substances, which has often been cited as a model for mitigating climate change, plus three other cases: per‐ and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), leaded fuel, and mercury. We highlight four configurations of regulatory scrutiny and industrial reform: (1) progressive substitution (of ozone‐depleting substances); (2) regrettable substitution (in the first waves of PFAS regulation); (3) knock‐on substitution (in the phaseout of leaded fuel); and (4) narrow substitution (in the case of mercury). These configurations, and the processes that generated them, provide novel lenses for understanding climate mitigation and confronting obstructionism. They point to the diversity of positions that corporate actors may take in the face of potential or actual public regulation, and the possibility of notable divides across and within given industries, which can facilitate meaningful reforms.
More transparency, more trust: Evidence from anti‐corruption campaign in China
Authors: Zhang Yaxin , Sun Daxin
Published: September 2024

A large body of literature has emphasized the importance of trust in the process of modernization and marketization due to its key role in reducing transaction cost, coordinating interpersonal relationships, and maintaining social harmony, limited attentions have been paid to the political setting. To address this research gap, our study empirically examines the relationship between governmental anti‐corruption effort and individual's trust. The anti‐corruption campaign since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China can serve as an excellent quasi‐natural‐experiment in this study to measure the extent to which governments devotes themselves to control corruption. Using the trace dataset of China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) surveys over the period 2012 to 2016, we find that there is a positive relationship between exposure to anti‐corruption campaign and personal political and social trust. Furthermore, our results suggest that this positive effect will be more pronounced when people are nonparty members and affiliated with rural communities, while more salient for those located in east region of China. This study contributes to the literature on spillover of government corruption by linking anti‐corruption campaign and individual‐level trust. Moreover, we also add values in the literature on the determinants of personal trust by providing political explanation.