bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate Warming and the Dynamics of the Invasive Box‐Tree Moth Cydalima perspectalis in the Suburbs of Basel (Switzerland) and in the Nearby Natural Box‐Tree Forest: A 15‐Year Study
Authors: Schmera Dénes , Baur Bruno
Published: November 2024

The non‐native invasive box‐tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) causes severe damage to ornamental box trees (Buxus spp.) and natural boxwood stands (Buxus sempervirens). Using two light traps, we recorded the seasonal flight activity and abundance of C. perspectalis in the suburbs of Basel (Switzerland) over a 15‐year period (2009–2023) shortly after the moth's introduction to Europe in 2007. In each year, we also assessed the grazing damage and number of box‐tree larvae in a nearby natural box‐tree forest. We recorded two peaks in the number of C. perspectalis caught in the settlement area (2009–2010 and 2017–2018). Cross‐correlation analysis showed that waves of C. perspectalis moths invaded the settlement area in the year after the peak years of forest damage. Moderate numbers of C. perspectalis were caught each year during off‐peak periods. The outbreaks of C. perspectalis resulted in a complete defoliation of the box trees in the forest, after which the moth population collapsed. The slowly regenerating box‐tree forest was recolonised by C. perspectalis, most probably from the settlement area. After the second outbreak, the box‐tree forest did not appear to be able to fully recover, as moderate numbers of C. perspectalis larvae fed on the emerging new leaves. The annual mean temperature measured in Basel increased by 1.5°C between 2009 and 2023. During this period, the first C. perspectalis moths were caught earlier each year and the last moths were caught later each year. Thus, the duration of flight activity of C. perspectalis (all three generations of a year combined) increased from 13 weeks in 2010 to 20 weeks in 2023, indicating the impact of climate warming. Our study shows that the dynamics of C. perspectalis in the settlement area are strongly influenced by the presence of box trees in the adjacent forest.
Geriatric head trauma: Can brain imaging be safely avoided?
Authors: Mowbray Fabrice I. , de Wit Kerstin
Published: November 2024

See related article by Shih et al.
Marker Effects for Fusarium Head Blight Resistance and the Dwarfing Gene Rht‐B1 in Cultivated Emmer Wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum) Revealed by Association Mapping
Authors: Miedaner Thomas , Afzal Muhammad , Morales Laura , Steiner Barbara , Buerstmayr Hermann , Longin C. Friedrich H.
Published: November 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a disease that affects all cereals worldwide. This includes emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccum), the ancestor of durum and bread wheat. We screened 143 cultivated emmer genotypes from a breeding program and gene bank collections for FHB severity at 2 locations over 2 years. Due to the high negative correlation between FHB severity and heading date (HD) (r = −0.65, p < 0.001), plot‐level FHB scores were corrected for HD before further analysis (FHBcorr). Genetic variation for FHB severity was high, ranging from 2.15 to 8.33 on a 1–9 scale. Twelve genotypes carried the semi‐dwarfing Rht‐B1b marker allele, which reduced plant height by 32 cm but increased FHB severity by 20%. Genome‐wide association study detected seven quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) for FHBcorr and three QTNs for plant height. The most important QTN for both traits was located on chromosome 4B, explaining 50.9% and 15.8% of the phenotypic variation in plant height and FHBcorr, respectively, and was localized near the semi‐dwarfing Rht‐B1 locus. Three other large‐effect loci for FHBcorr were found on chromosomes 5B and 7B. In total, 72.6% of phenotypic variation was explained by all markers. The use of Rht‐B1b in emmer breeding has a high effect on plant height but would entail the introgression of potent FHB‐resistance from either native or exotic sources.
VTE Prevention Ability Among Community Nurses in the Medical Consortium Based on the Kirkpatrick Mode Evaluation of the Effects of Training
Authors: Fan Weihong , Tian Bei , Xu Pei , Zou Zuoli , Zhou Xiaoling , Wu Yan , Wu Lianbao , Wu Yingbiao , Tang Peifeng , Liu Weiqun
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To explore the application of the Kirkpatrick model in VTE prevention training among community nurses in the medical consortium.

Method

A team of experts was established to formulate a VTE prevention ability training program for community nurses in the medical consortium. According to a literature review, the results of a questionnaire survey and the results of on‐site supervision surveys of nurses in five community health service centers in the medical consortium. The Kirkpatrick model was applied to train 117 nurses in five community service centers, and the effects on the four dimensions (i.e., the reaction layer, learning layer, behavior layer, and results layer) were observed.

Results

A total of 100% of nurses’ reported satisfaction with the training, and the attendance rate was ≥98%. After the training, the theoretical knowledge of VTE prevention and the results of the skills assessment of community nurses in the medical consortium were significantly greater than the pretraining levels (p < 0.001). Three months after training, the nurses’ VTE prevention execution score significantly improved compared with the pretraining scores (p < 0.001). The compliance rate and standard rate of ankle pump movement significantly improved compared with those before training (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Training based on the offset model can effectively improve VTE prevention knowledge among community nurses in the medical consortium, thereby enhancing VTE prevention among patients and at improving the compliance and standardization of patients' self‐prevention. These findings provide a reference for future in‐service training programs targeting VTE prevention among nurses in community hospitals.
CmPYL7 positively regulates the cold tolerance via interacting with CmPP2C24‐like in oriental melon
Authors: Liu Wei , Jiang Yun , Lv Yanling , Zhang Lili , Liu Shilei , Wang Zailiang , He Ming , Zhang Jiawang
Published: November 2024

Pyrabactin or Actin Resistance1/PYR1‐Like/Regulatory Components of abscisic acid (ABA) Receptors (PYR/PYL/RCARs, referred to as PYLs) are direct receptors of ABA that function pivotally in the ABA‐signaling pathway. Previously, we discovered that CmPYL7 was strongly upregulated by cold stress in oriental melon (Cucumis melo). In this study, we demonstrated that CmPYL7 was strongly induced by cold treatment (Cold), Cold+ABA, and Cold+fluridone (Flu, an ABA inhibitor) treatments, while the expression level of CmPYL7 under Cold+Flu is lower than that of cold treatment. Silencing CmPYL7 in oriental melon seedlings significantly decreased cold tolerance due to the reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD); catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX)] and the accumulation of H2O2, accompanied by higher electrolyte leakage and MDA content, but lower proline and soluble sugar content. In contrast, overexpressing CmPYL7 in Arabidopsis plants significantly increased cold tolerance owing to the enhanced activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and APX) and limited H2O2, accompanied by lower electrolyte leakage and MDA content, but higher proline and soluble sugar contents. CmPYL7 was found to interact with CmPP2C24‐like in vivo and in vitro, whose expression is downregulated under cold stress. Furthermore, silenced CmPP2C24‐like in oriental melon plants significantly increased cold tolerance, exhibiting lower electrolyte leakage and MDA content and higher proline and soluble sugar contents. The activities of SOD, CAT, and APX were further enhanced and contents of H2O2 were significantly limited from increasing in TRV‐CmPP2C24‐like seedlings. These results demonstrated that CmPYL7 functions positively in the ABA‐signaling pathway to regulate cold tolerance by interacting with CmPP2C24‐like protein.
Interplay between CO2 and light governs carbon partitioning in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Zuliani Luca , Cecchin Michela , Miotti Tea , Paloschi Matteo , Cuine Stephan , Cazzaniga Stefano , Li‐Beisson Yonghua , Ballottari Matteo
Published: November 2024

Increasing CO2 availability is a common practice at the industrial level to trigger biomass productivity in microalgae cultures. Still, the consequences of high CO2 availability in microalgal cells exposed to relatively high light require further investigation. Here, the photosynthetic, physiologic, and metabolic responses of the green microalga model Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were investigated in high or low CO2 availability conditions: high CO2 enabled higher biomass yields only if sufficient light energy was provided. Moreover, cells grown in high light and high CO2 availability were characterized, compared to cells grown in high light and low CO2, by a relative increase of the energy‐dense triacylglycerols and decreased starch accumulation per dry weight. The photosynthetic machinery adapted to the increased carbon availability, modulating Photosystem II light‐harvesting efficiency and increasing Photosystem I photochemical activity, which shifted from being acceptor side to donor side limited: cells grown at high CO2 availability were characterized by increased photosynthetic linear electron flow and by the onset of a balance between NAD(P)H oxidation and NAD(P)+ reduction. Mitochondrial respiration was also influenced by the conditions herein applied, with reduced respiration through the cytochrome pathway compensated by increased respiration through alternative pathways, demonstrating a different use of the cellular reducing power based on carbon availability. The results suggest that at high CO2 availability and high irradiance, the reducing power generated by the oxidative metabolism of photosynthates is either dissipated through alternative oxidative pathways in the mitochondria or translocated back to the chloroplasts to support carbon assimilation and energy‐rich lipids accumulation.
The novel HLA‐A*26:01:81 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Han Dong‐hai , Xie Zhi‐cong , Zheng En‐dong , Zhou Ying , Gao Da
Published: November 2024

HLA‐A*26:01:81 differs from HLA‐A*26:01:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 4.
The Novel HLA‐E Allele, HLA‐E*01:151, Identified in a Chinese Individual
Authors: Dong Lina , He Yanmin , Yang Luxin , He Yizhen , Zhu Faming
Published: November 2024

HLA‐E*01:151 differs from HLA‐E*01:03:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 890 C>T in exon 5.
Identification of the Novel HLA‐DPA1*01:214 Allele in a Brazilian Bone Marrow Donor
Authors: de Lima Ana Paula Sokolowski , Cita Rafael Formenton , Massi Fernanda Pelisson , Hirata Bruna Karina Banin , Visentainer Jeane Eliete Laguila
Published: November 2024

A single nucleotide polymorphism, changing Phenylalanine to Leucine, differentiates HLA‐DPA1*01:214 from HLA‐DPA1*01:03:01:01.
The HLA‐A*31:217 Allele Identified in a Volunteer Donor for Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Baek In‐Cheol , Choi Eun‐Jeong , Kim Hyoung‐Jae , Choi Haeyoun , Chung Yeun‐Jun
Published: November 2024

HLA‐A*31:217 differs from HLA‐A*31:01:02:01 in codon 37 in exon 2.
Role of ryanodine receptor cooperativity in Ca2+‐wave‐mediated triggered activity in cardiomyocytes
Authors: Zhong Mingwang , Karma Alain
Published: November 2024

Ca2+ waves are known to trigger delayed after‐depolarizations that can cause malignant cardiac arrhythmias. However, modelling Ca2+ waves using physiologically realistic models has remained a major challenge. Existing models with low Ca2+ sensitivity of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) necessitate large release currents, leading to an unrealistically large Ca2+ transient amplitude incompatible with the experimental observations. Consequently, current physiologically detailed models of delayed after‐depolarizations resort to unrealistic cell architectures to produce Ca2+ waves with a normal Ca2+ transient amplitude. Here, we address these challenges by incorporating RyR cooperativity into a physiologically detailed model with a realistic cell architecture. We represent RyR cooperativity phenomenologically through a Hill coefficient within the sigmoid function of RyR open probability. Simulations in permeabilized myocytes with high Ca2+ sensitivity reveal that a sufficiently large Hill coefficient is required for Ca2+ wave propagation via the fire–diffuse–fire mechanism. In intact myocytes, propagating Ca2+ waves can occur only within an intermediate Hill coefficient range. Within this range, the spark rate is neither too low, enabling Ca2+ wave propagation, nor too high, allowing for the maintenance of a high sarcoplasmic reticulum load during diastole of the action potential. Moreover, this model successfully replicates other experimentally observed manifestations of Ca2+‐wave‐mediated triggered activity, including phase 2 and phase 3 early after‐depolarizations and high‐frequency voltage–Ca2+ oscillations. These oscillations feature an elevated take‐off potential with depolarization mediated by the L‐type Ca2+ current. The model also sheds light on the roles of luminal gating of RyRs and the mobile buffer ATP in the genesis of these arrhythmogenic phenomena.

image

Key points

Existing mathematical models of Ca2+ waves use an excessively large Ca2+‐release current or unrealistic diffusive coupling between release units.

Our physiologically realistic model, using a Hill coefficient in the ryanodine receptor (RyR) gating function to represent RyR cooperativity, addresses these limitations and generates organized Ca2+ waves at Hill coefficients ranging from ∼5 to 10, as opposed to the traditional value of 2.

This range of Hill coefficients gives a spark rate neither too low, thereby enabling Ca2+ wave propagation, nor too high, allowing for the maintenance of a high sarcoplasmic reticulum load during the plateau phase of the action potential.

Additionally, the model generates Ca2+‐wave‐mediated phase 2 and phase 3 early after‐depolarizations, and coupled membrane voltage with Ca2+ oscillations mediated by the L‐type Ca2+ current.

This study suggests that pharmacologically targeting RyR cooperativity could be a promising strategy for treating cardiac arrhythmias linked to Ca2+‐wave‐mediated triggered activity.
Noninvasive megapixel fluorescence microscopy through scattering layers by a virtual incoherent reflection matrix
Authors: Weinberg Gil , Sunray Elad , Katz Ori
Published: November 2024

Optical-resolution fluorescence imaging through and within complex samples presents a major challenge due to random light scattering, with substantial implications across multiple fields. While considerable advancements in coherent imaging through severe multiple scattering have been recently introduced by reflection matrix processing, approaches that tackle scattering in incoherent fluorescence imaging have been limited to sparse targets, require high-resolution control of the illumination or detection wavefronts, or require a very large number of measurements. Here, we present an approach that allows the adaptation of well-established reflection matrix techniques to scattering compensation in incoherent fluorescence imaging. We experimentally demonstrate that a small number of conventional wide-field fluorescence microscope images acquired under unknown random illuminations can effectively be used to construct a virtual fluorescence-based reflection matrix. Processing this matrix by an adapted matrix-based scattering compensation algorithm allows reconstructing megapixel-scale images from <150 acquired frames, without any spatial light modulators or computationally intensive processing.
Pseudokinase STK40 promotes T
H
1 and T
H
17 cell differentiation by targeting FOXO transcription factors
Authors: Tao Yuexiao , Jiang Zhenyan , Wang Huizi , Li Jia , Li Xin , Ni Jun , Liu Jiamin , Xiang Hongrui , Guan Chenyang , Cao Wei , Li Dongyang , He Ke , Wang Lina , Hu Jing , Jin Ying , Liao Bing , Zhang Ting , Wu Xuefeng
Published: November 2024

Inappropriate CD4
+
T helper (T
H
) cell differentiation leads to progression of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, yet the regulatory mechanisms governing stability and activity of transcription factors controlling T
H
cell differentiation remain elusive. Here, we describe how pseudokinase serine threonine kinase 40 (STK40) facilitates T
H
1/T
H
17 differentiation under pathological conditions. STK40 in T cells is dispensable for immune homeostasis in resting mice. However, mice with T cell–specific deletion of STK40 exhibit attenuated symptoms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and colitis, accompanied by diminished T
H
1 and T
H
17 cell differentiation. Mechanistically, STK40 facilitates K48-linked polyubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of FOXO1/4 through promoting their interaction with E3 ligase COP1. Inhibition of FOXO4 or FOXO1, respectively, restores differentiation potential of STK40-deficient T
H
1/T
H
17 cells. Together, our data suggest a crucial role of STK40 in T
H
1 and T
H
17 cell differentiation, thereby enabling better understanding of the molecular regulatory network of CD4
+
T cell differentiation and providing effective targets for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Topological Fermiology of gate-tunable Rashba electron gases
Authors: Hu Jie , Fang Ze-Zheng , Sheng Feng , Hua Chenqiang , Xi Chuanying , Kuang Guangli , Pi Li , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Xia Qing-Lin , Zheng Yi
Published: November 2024

By introducing first-order quantum phases as topological invariants, recent symmetry analysis–based theories have reinvigorated magnetic quantum oscillations as a versatile quantum probe for unfolding the Fermi surface topology along with the geometry information, i.e., topo-Fermiology. Here, we demonstrate the comprehensive topo-Fermiology of high-mobility Rashba two-dimensional electron gases with ultragate tunability of spin-orbit coupling parameter in few-layer black arsenic. The remarkable consistencies with the key theoretical predictions of period doubling in quantum oscillations, gate-tunable aperiodic beating patterns, and the symmetry-enforced Landau level crossing phenomena controlled by the competition between Rashba coupling and the Zeeman interaction, which ultimately manifests as all odd-filling factor integer quantum Hall effect with superb sensitivity to quantum phases, establish topo-Fermiology as an indispensable methodology for studying topological quantum matters.
A MUSE source-blind survey for emission from the circumgalactic medium
Authors: Zhang Huanian , Zaritsky Dennis
Published: November 2024

The recent detection of optical emission lines from the circumgalactic medium (CGM) in combined, large samples of low-redshift, normal galaxy spectra hints at the potential to map the cool (∼10
4
kelvin) CGM in individual, representative galaxies. Using archival data from a forefront instrument (MUSE) on the VLT, we present a source-blind, wide-redshift-range (
z
∼ 0 to 5) narrowband imaging survey for CGM emission. Our detected, resolved emission line sources are cataloged and include a 30-kiloparsec-wide Hα source likely tracing the CGM of a low-mass galaxy (stellar mass ∼ 10
8.78±0.42
solar mass) at
z
= 0.1723, a 60-kiloparsec-wide Ly α structure associated with a galaxy at
z
= 3.9076, and a 130-kiloparsec (∼

r
vir

)–wide [O II] feature revealing an interaction between a galaxy pair at
z
= 1.2480. The Hα velocity field for the low-mass galaxy suggests that the CGM is more chaotic or turbulent than the galaxy disk, while that for the interacting galaxies shows large-scale (∼50 kiloparsec) coherent motions.
Revisiting climate impacts of an AMOC slowdown: dependence on freshwater locations in the North Atlantic
Authors: Ma Qiyun , Shi Xiaoxu , Scholz Patrick , Sidorenko Dmitry , Lohmann Gerrit , Ionita Monica
Published: November 2024

The key locations of freshwater input driving Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) slowdown and their climate responses remain inconclusive. Using a state-of-the-art global climate model, we conduct freshwater hosing experiments to reexamine AMOC sensitivity and its climate impacts. The Irminger basin emerges as the most effective region for additional freshwater fluxes, causing the greatest AMOC weakening. While global temperature and precipitation responses are relatively homogeneous, subcontinental responses—especially in the northern mid-latitudes—are heterogeneous. At high latitudes, sea ice responses to freshwater fluxes and associated ice-albedo feedbacks determine temperature changes. In tropical and extratropical regions, temperature dynamics are shaped by atmospheric circulation and oceanic heat transport. Precipitation shows seasonal and regional variability due to altered surface turbulent heat flux and the southward movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The widespread heterogeneity in climate extremes underscores the need to monitor freshwater release regions linked to AMOC slowdown. These findings hold vital implications for understanding paleoclimate and future AMOC impacts.
Vagal stimulation ameliorates murine colitis by regulating SUMOylation
Authors: Youssef Ayman , Rehman Ata Ur , Elebasy Mohamed , Roper Jatin , Sheikh Shehzad Z. , Karhausen Jorn , Yang Wei , Ulloa Luis
Published: November 2024

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic debilitating conditions without cure, the etiologies of which are unknown, that shorten the lifespans of 7 million patients worldwide by nearly 10%. Here, we found that decreased autonomic parasympathetic tone resulted in increased IBD susceptibility and mortality in mouse models of disease. Conversely, vagal stimulation restored neuromodulation and ameliorated colitis by inhibiting the posttranslational modification SUMOylation through a mechanism independent of the canonical interleukin-10/α7 nicotinic cholinergic vagal pathway. Colonic biopsies from patients with IBDs and mouse models showed an increase in small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO)2 and SUMO3 during active disease. In global genetic knockout mouse models, the deletion of
Sumo3
protected against development of colitis and delayed onset of disease, whereas deletion of
Sumo1
halted the progression of colitis. Bone marrow transplants from
Sumo1
-knockout (KO) but not
Sumo3
-KO mice into wild-type mice conferred protection against development of colitis. Electric stimulation of the cervical vagus nerve before the induction of colitis inhibited SUMOylation and delayed the onset of colitis in
Sumo1
-KO mice and resulted in milder symptoms in
Sumo3
-KO mice. Treatment with TAK-981, a first-in-class inhibitor of the SUMO-activating enzyme, ameliorated disease in three murine models of IBD and reduced intestinal permeability and bacterial translocation in a severe model of the disease, suggesting the potential to reduce progression to sepsis. These results reveal a pathway of vagal neuromodulation that reprograms endogenous stress-adaptive responses through inhibition of SUMOylation and suggest SUMOylation as a therapeutic target for IBD.
Delayed low-dose oral administration of 4′-fluorouridine inhibits pathogenic arenaviruses in animal models of lethal disease
Authors: Welch Stephen R. , Spengler Jessica R. , Westover Jonna B. , Bailey Kevin W. , Davies Katherine A. , Aida-Ficken Virginia , Bluemling Gregory R. , Boardman Kirsten M. , Wasson Samantha R. , Mao Shuli , Kuiper Damien L. , Hager Michael W. , Saindane Manohar T. , Andrews Meghan K. , Krueger Rebecca E. , Sticher Zachary M. , Jung Kie Hoon , Chatterjee Payel , Shrivastava-Ranjan Punya , Lo Michael K. , Coleman-McCray JoAnn D. , Sorvillo Teresa E. , Genzer Sarah C. , Scholte Florine E. M. , Kelly Jamie A. , Jenks M. Harley , McMullan Laura K. , Albariño César G. , Montgomery Joel M. , Painter George R. , Natchus Michael G. , Kolykhalov Alexander A. , Gowen Brian B. , Spiropoulou Christina F. , Flint Mike
Published: November 2024

Development of broad-spectrum antiviral therapies is critical for outbreak and pandemic preparedness against emerging and reemerging viruses. Viruses inducing hemorrhagic fevers cause high morbidity and mortality in humans and are associated with several recent international outbreaks, but approved therapies for treating most of these pathogens are lacking. Here, we show that 4′-fluorouridine (4′-FlU; EIDD-2749), an orally available ribonucleoside analog, has antiviral activity against multiple hemorrhagic fever viruses in cell culture, including Nipah virus, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, orthohantaviruses, and arenaviruses. We performed preclinical in vivo evaluation of oral 4′-FlU against two arenaviruses, Old World Lassa virus (LASV) and New World Junín virus (JUNV), in guinea pig models of lethal disease. 4′-FlU demonstrated both advantageous pharmacokinetic characteristics and high efficacy in both of these lethal disease guinea pig models. Additional experiments supported protection of the infected animals even when 4′-FlU delivery was reduced to a low dose of 0.5 milligram per kilogram. To demonstrate clinical utility, 4′-FlU treatment was evaluated when initiated late in the course of infection (12 or 9 days after infection for LASV and JUNV, respectively). Delayed treatment resulted in rapid resolution of clinical signs, demonstrating an extended window for therapeutic intervention. These data support the use of 4′-FlU as a potent and efficacious treatment against highly pathogenic arenaviruses of public health concern with a virus inhibition profile suggesting broad-spectrum utility as an orally available antiviral drug against a wide variety of viral pathogens.
Ethical issues in termination of resuscitation decision-making: an interview study with paramedics and relatives of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest non-survivors
Authors: Eli Karin , Huxley Caroline J. , Gardiner Galina , Perkins Gavin D. , Smyth Michael A. , Griffiths Frances , Slowther Anne-Marie
Published: November 2024

Background

In out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), decisions to terminate resuscitation or transport the patient to hospital are ethically fraught. However, little is known about paramedics’ ethical concerns in these decision-making processes.

Objective

To develop an understanding of how paramedics experience ethical concerns in OHCA decision-making processes, and how this relates to the ethical concerns of patients’ relatives.

Design

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with paramedics and relatives of OHCA non-survivors.

Setting

Two ambulance trusts in England.

Participants

Thirty-one paramedics, identified as decision-makers in adult OHCA events in which cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) had been initiated, were interviewed. Fourteen interviews with relatives of OHCA non-survivors were also conducted.

Analysis

The interviews were analysed thematically, using a coding framework and following an empirical ethics approach.

Results

Four themes were developed: preventing harm to patients, best interests, caring for the patient’s family and moral distress. Paramedics conceptualised preventing harm both as saving lives and as preventing an undignified death or a life with severe brain damage. Paramedics’ and relatives’ views of best interests were influenced by values such as patient dignity and assumptions about age and quality of life. Paramedics expressed a duty of care towards the patient’s family. Relatives conveyed the importance of clear communication and acts of care performed by the ambulance crew, underscoring the ethical commitment that paramedics had towards patients’ families. Paramedics described decision-making processes that relied on clinical guidelines, rather than personal values and beliefs; this sometimes led to moral distress.

Conclusion

Non-protocolised ethical considerations are important in paramedic decision-making about terminating CPR in OHCA events. While paramedics use established guidelines and processes to reach decisions that prevent patient harm, they experience moral distress when personal convictions clash with guidelines. Training around ethical reasoning and decision making may help paramedics reduce their moral distress and provide consistent and transparent decisions for patients and their families.
Living-donor liver transplantation for non-resectable colorectal liver metastases: protocol for a multicentric, single-arm study
Authors: Fukumitsu Ken , Kageyama Shoichi , Ito Takashi , Oimoto Natsuko , Ogiso Satoshi , Anazawa Takayuki , Nagai Kazuyuki , Uchida Yoichiro , Ishii Takamichi , Hatano Etsuro
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The only treatment for non-resectable colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) is medical therapy, and the overall survival (OS) rate at 3 and 5 years is approximately 30%–40% and less than 10%, respectively. In 2020, a group in Norway reported that liver transplantation for non-resectable CRLM improved the 5-year OS rate to up to 83%. Clinical trials have been launched since that report was published, but most have involved deceased-donor liver transplantation rather than living-donor liver transplantation. Our study will assess the efficacy and safety of living-donor liver transplantation for patients with non-resectable CRLM.

Methods and analysis

This is an investigator-driven, multicentre, prospective, single-arm study involving 11 university hospitals in Japan. Patients with non-resectable CRLM and resected primary cancers will be enrolled in the study. Any patients with histopathological or genetic mutations, such as those of RAS and BRAF, are eligible. Furthermore, patients who underwent lung treatment for three or fewer pulmonary metastases and experienced no recurrence for more than 6 months are eligible. The eligibility of the candidates will be reviewed by the Central Eligibility Review Committee. The primary endpoint is the 3-year OS rate. Assuming an OS rate of 70% and a threshold of 45%, the number of required patients is 23, with an alpha error of 5% (one-sided), power of 80% and a 10% dropout rate.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the ethical review board of Kyoto University (R-1591). All participants are required to provide written informed consent. The results will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

jRCT1050230053 and UMIN000049785.
Concordance, motivations and associated factors of COVID-19 vaccination among parent–child dyads: a cross-sectional study in Caraga Region, the Philippines
Authors: Herrera David Jone Lagura , Herrera Deborah Jael , Anore Krisha Marie , Herrera Miraluna , Masing Anna Lyn A , Sanchez Ruth E , Bas Sherlyn , Amora Donnacham , Tabudlong Renante Pandawatnon , Berhe Neamin M
Published: November 2024

Background

COVID-19 vaccination rates remain low for children aged 11 and below, and understanding the extent to which parental decisions impact their children’s vaccination status remains a challenge. This study aimed to explore the concordance and motivations for vaccination among parent–child dyads and determine the associated factors influencing their children’s vaccination status.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 March 2023 to 30 March 2023, recruiting parents from six representative primary schools across Butuan City, the Philippines. Pilot-tested, self-administered questionnaires were used during the face-to-face surveys with parent participants. To determine the associated factors of parental decisions to vaccinate their children, mixed-effects logistic regression was used, with school districts as a random effect.

Participants

A total of 593 participating parents were included in the study, with the majority being females (n=484, 81.6%) and underserved, characterised by lacking a college degree (n=305, 51.4%) and having low to no income (n=511, 86.1%).

Results

While 80.6% (n=478) of parents reported being vaccinated against COVID-19, only 36.2% (n=215) of them chose to vaccinate their children. A significant number of parents (n=285, 48.1%) reported psychological distress, with higher levels of distress prevalent among those who are indigenous, reside in rural areas and have lower income levels. Parental education and vaccination status emerged as influential factors. Specifically, parents with advanced degrees were 48% less likely to have unvaccinated children (adj OR (AOR)=0.52; 95% CI 0.30, 0.87), while unvaccinated parents had a sixfold increase in the likelihood of having unvaccinated children (AOR 6.1; 95% CI 3.14, 12.02) compared with their counterparts.

Conclusions

Efforts to increase paediatric vaccination rates should focus more on actively engaging parents, educating them about the vaccine’s benefits and necessity, rather than solely relying on mandates to improve paediatric vaccination rates. Further research is needed to understand the reluctance of unvaccinated parents to vaccinate themselves and their children against COVID-19, identifying specific facilitators and barriers to develop more effective communication strategies and bolster vaccine acceptance.
Exploring the views of primary and secondary care physicians on the no-biopsy diagnosis of coeliac disease in adults: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Shiha Mohamed G , Bowker-Howell Freya Jane , Harper Alice M , Elwenspoek Martha M C , Penny Hugo A , Banks Jonathan , Sanders David Surendran
Published: November 2024

Objective

Despite mounting evidence supporting a no-biopsy approach for the diagnosis of coeliac disease in adults, established clinical pathways in primary and secondary care could hinder implementation in clinical practice. We aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators to a no-biopsy diagnostic pathway of coeliac disease in primary and secondary care.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using semistructured interviews with gastroenterologists and general practitioners (GPs). We used a predefined interview topic guide consisting of open-ended questions and prompts to facilitate discussion about the views of primary and secondary care physicians on the no-biopsy diagnosis of coeliac disease in adults.

Results

We interviewed 24 physicians (12 gastroenterologists and 12 GPs) across England between February and March 2024. Participants had different levels of experience ranging between 2 years and 30 years. Gastroenterologists were more familiar with the no-biopsy approach and the evidence supporting it compared with GPs. Both groups were supportive of the no-biopsy approach but acknowledged the lack of clear guidelines as a major barrier to implementation in clinical practice. Increased patient satisfaction, shorter waiting times to start treatment and reduced endoscopy service pressures and costs were perceived as the main advantages of the no-biopsy approach. However, participants had concerns regarding false-positive results, missing concurrent pathology, dealing with persistent symptoms after treatment without biopsy confirmation and the increased workload in primary care.

Conclusion

The safe and effective implementation of this no-biopsy approach depends on developing clear evidence-based clinical guidelines and referral pathways, along with comprehensive education for all healthcare providers involved.
Fucoxanthin Prevents Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Nrf2/STAT3 and Glutathione Pathways
Authors: Ding Rui , Zhong Sai-Yi , Deng Li-Yan , Luo Lian-Xiang
Published: November 2024

Fucoxanthin, sourced from marine brown algae, diatoms, and microalgae, is known to possess strong anti-inflammatory activity. To explore its intrinsic mechanism, we investigated its effects on acute lung injury (ALI) with an experiment using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 inflammatory cells and an ALI animal model. Fucoxanthin was observed to suppress the inflammatory response in vitro by reducing the levels of inflammatory markers such as PTGS2, iNOS, and TNF-α. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that fucoxanthin could potentially inhibit ferroptosis through 10 targets, including PTGS2. This was further confirmed by the dose-dependent increase in lipid peroxidation and Fe[Formula: see text] levels caused by fucoxanthin, as well as the regulation of ferroptosis-associated proteins ACSL4, SLC7A11, GPX4, and FTH1. Furthermore, fucoxanthin was found to significantly reduce the inflammatory response and ferroptosis in a mouse model of LPS-induced ALI. Further research revealed that fucoxanthin could raise the levels of [Formula: see text]-Glu-Cys and carbamyl glycine, which are intermediate metabolites of glutathione synthesis, in RAW264.7 cells. This implies that fucoxanthin can inhibit ferroptosis by regulating the [Formula: see text]-glutamyl cycle. Our research demonstrated that fucoxanthin is capable of activating phosphorylated STAT3 and raising the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1, implying that fucoxanthin may be able to prevent LPS-induced ferroptosis in ALI through the Nrf2/STAT3 pathway.
Ariel symphony: Nature-inspired docking and battery swapping for UAV
Authors: Bhaad Mannchet Singh , Pai Asmita , Mahalank Siddhant , Mirza Kayzin , Azmi Daniyal , Deshmukh Venkatesh , Sharma Chetna
Published: November 2024

The study delineates an innovative approach for enhancing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) by equipping it with docking and battery-swapping mechanisms that draw inspiration from nature. The docking mechanism, which derives inspiration from a bat’s secure hanging posture and the adaptive structure of orchid flowers, ensures stable docking of the UAV. A battery-swapping system, modeled after the hermit crabs shell exchange process, facilitates swift and reliable battery replacement. These bio-inspired mechanisms, implemented on the X-UAV Mini Talon platform using 3D-printed components for structural modifications, not only optimize operational efficiency and versatility but also enable the UAV with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities. This research underscores the potential of biomimicry in UAV design, demonstrating the feasibility and adaptability of these innovative solutions for practical implementation.
Lipotoxicity and Oocyte Quality in Mammals: Pathogenesis, Consequences, and Reversibility
Authors: Meulders Ben , Marei Waleed F.A. , Loier Lien , Leroy Jo L.M.R.
Published: November 2024

Metabolic stress conditions are often characterized by upregulated lipolysis and subsequently increased serum free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations, leading to the uptake of FFAs by non-adipose tissues and impairment of their function. This phenomenon is known as lipotoxicity. The increased serum FFA concentrations are reflected in the ovarian follicular fluid, which can have harmful effects on oocyte development. Several studies using in vitro and in vivo mammalian models showed that altered oocyte metabolism, increased oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction are crucial mechanisms underlying this detrimental impact. Ultimately, this can impair offspring health through the persistence of defective mitochondria in the embryo, hampering epigenetic reprogramming and early development. In vitro and in vivo treatments to enhance oocyte mitochondrial function are increasingly being developed. This can help to improve pregnancy rates and safeguard offspring health in metabolically compromised individuals.
Dickeya Diversity and Pathogenic Mechanisms
Authors: Zhou Jianuan , Hu Ming , Zhang Lianhui
Published: November 2024

The Dickeya genus comprises numerous pathogenic species that cause diseases in various crops, vegetables, and ornamental plants across the globe. The pathogens have become very widespread in recent years, and numerous newly identified Dickeya-associated plant diseases have been reported, which poses an immense threat to agricultural production and is a serious concern internationally. Evidence is accumulating that a diversity of hosts, environmental habitats, and climates seems to shape the abundance of Dickeya species in nature and the differentiation of pathogenic mechanisms. This review summarizes the latest findings on the genome diversity and pathogenic mechanisms of Dickeya spp., with a focus on the intricate virulence regulatory mechanisms mediated by quorum sensing and pathogen-host interkingdom communication systems.
Atypical Cases of Leptospirosis: Insights From Georgia
Authors: Dehkordi Arash Ghani , Al-Tamary Salah Rabea Salah , Al-Tamary Ashraf Rabea Salah , Al-Tamary Hamza Rabea Salah , Albarari Shams Samih Ahmad , Assad Alaaldin Mohammad Zeyad , Hamdan Ghena Mohammad Othman , Mikadze Ia
Published: November 2024

Pathogenic Leptospira species are the source of leptospirosis, a common zoonotic infection that can cause a wide range of clinical manifestations, from minor flu‐like symptoms to severe multiorgan failure. We present two peculiar cases of leptospirosis; they highlight the need for clinical awareness to improve patient outcomes and further knowledge of leptospirosis epidemiology and therapy by illuminating the difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. The first case involved a 30‐year‐old male presented with jaundice. Although he had no history of chronic illnesses, an exhaustive investigation was warranted due to his recent travel history and occupational contact. Laboratory tests revealed significantly increased levels of AST and ALT and positive Leptospira IgM serology. Remarkably, the patient refuted the traditional theory of leptospirosis transmission by denying direct animal interaction. After starting therapy with dexamethasone initially and adding doxycycline later, the patient’s condition significantly improved; his jaundice resolved and his liver enzyme levels returned to normal. An outpatient follow‐up after discharge was advised to assess liver and kidney function. The second case involved an 87‐year‐old woman with a fever, weakness and hypertension. Investigations revealed hepatosplenomegaly, raising the possibility of hypersplenism. She reported exposure to animals, particularly her dogs in her urban house. Surprisingly, her AST and ALT levels were normal. Lab tests also revealed thrombocytopoenia with normal APTT and prolonged PT. Serological tests indicated positive Leptospira IgM. Along with intravenous infusions, the patient’s treatment plan comprised dexamethasone, enalapril and ceftriaxone to treat inflammation, hypertension and bacterial infection, respectively. Following a 20‐day hospital stay, the patient’s laboratory results and symptoms improved, leading to her discharge. Continuous follow‐up recommended to monitor her recovery and prevent recurrence. These case studies emphasise the significance of taking leptospirosis into account when treating patients who do not have normal exposure histories yet present with unusual symptoms.
Innovative Chitosan Edible Coating Incorporated With a Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent and Aloe vera for Extending the Blackberry Shelf Life
Authors: Ioannou Georgia D. , Christou Christos N. , Ioannou Katerina A. , Christou Atalanti , Stavrou Ioannis J. , Krasia-Christoforou Theodora , Kapnissi-Christodoulou Constantina P.
Published: November 2024

Biodegradable and nontoxic chitosan edible coatings offer a promising alternative to conventional plastic food packaging materials. Recently, there has been significant interest in incorporating green plasticizers into these coatings. Accordingly, response surface methodology was employed to optimize a chitosan coating formulation that integrates Aloe vera extracts and a deep eutectic solvent (choline chloride–citric acid) as a plasticizer. The selection of the optimized formulation was related to quality characteristics of coated blackberries including their weight loss, pH, total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, and antioxidant activity after 7 days of cold storage. The models demonstrated a high level of significance between the responses and independent variables, with p value less than 0.0001. The optimal coating formulation for blackberry fruits was identified as 2.05% (v/v) aloe rind extract, 1.1% (w/w) aloe gel extract, and 15% (w/w) choline chloride–citric acid. The developed film was characterized by ATR‐FTIR and SEM for its intermolecular interactions and surface morphology, respectively, demonstrating good combability of polymer matrix with the plasticizer and aloe extracts. The optimized film was compared to a pure chitosan film in regard to their physical and mechanical properties. The alternative plasticizer choline chloride–citric acid improved the flexibility of the edible packaging by enhancing its mechanical properties, such as tensile strength, elongation at rupture, and elastic modulus. Additionally, the incorporation of this plasticizer and plant extracts slightly increased the transparency of the film. The coating was then applied to blackberry fruits in order to investigate the potential of the developed coating formulation to maximize the shelf life of food products. The results indicated the ability of the coating to extend shelf life and maintain the quality of the fruits.
A Systematic Review of Interventions—Does Invisalign Move Teeth as Effectively as Orthodontic Fixed Appliances?
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Awawdeh Mohammed , Alhazmi Nora , Alamoud Khalid A. , Iyer Kiran , Abutayyem Huda , Alswairki Haytham Jamil , Hajeer Mohammad Younis
Published: November 2024

Background: Despite the large number of studies that have been done in this area, there is still a gap in the literature when it comes to comparing the orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) efficacy of Invisalign and fixed orthodontic appliances. The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate and compare the efficacy of Invisalign and fixed orthodontic appliances in terms of the amount and rate of OTM. Specifically, the study aimed to determine if there was a statistically significant difference between these two treatment modalities in achieving OTM and to assess whether treatment duration differs significantly between Invisalign and traditional fixed appliances. This investigation seeks to address the existing gaps in the literature by providing a clear comparison based on recent empirical evidence, thereby contributing to more informed treatment decisions in orthodontic practices.

Methodology: Relevant MeSH keywords and Boolean operators were selected by a team of reviewers to search several online databases for papers that were in accordance with the objectives of our review.

Results: At the end of the search protocol, 10 studies were deemed to be eligible for inclusion in the review. The pooled analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in treatment time for patients using Invisalign compared to those with fixed appliances, with a total OR of 0.61 [95% CI 0.43, 0.85]. No significant heterogeneity was detected (I2 = 0%), and the test for overall effect was significant (Z = 2.86, p = 0.004). Furthermore, a nonsignificant trend favoring Invisalign was shown, with an odds ratio of 1.43 and a confidence interval that included 1 (0.97, 2.10). The p value was 0.07, and there was negligible heterogeneity among studies, as indicated by an I2 of 0%.

Conclusion: Based on the findings from the selected studies, it can be concluded that Invisalign and fixed orthodontic appliances have similar overall efficacy in eliciting OTM. However, Invisalign treatment requires significantly less time to complete than fixed orthodontic appliances. Despite these observations, further studies are required to explore the long‐term stability of OTM achieved with Invisalign and fixed orthodontic appliances.

Registration and Protocol: Registration was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) standards (CRD42023405593). The research protocol was created to meet the goals and was properly filed with PROSPERO; however, it has not been prospectively registered.
Supplementary Data from Circulating and Intratumoral Adrenal Androgens Correlate with Response to Abiraterone in Men with Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Mostaghel Elahe A. , Marck Brett T. , Kolokythas Orpheus , Chew Felix , Yu Evan Y. , Schweizer Michael T. , Cheng Heather H. , Kantoff Phillip W. , Balk Steven P. , Taplin Mary-Ellen , Sharifi Nima , Matsumoto Alvin M. , Nelson Peter S. , Montgomery R. Bruce
Published: November 2024

Supplementary Fig 1-8, Supplementary Tables 1-4