bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of advanced echocardiographic right ventricular functional parameters with cardiovascular magnetic resonance in adult congenital heart disease
Authors: Bowen Daniel J , Kauling Robert M , Pelosi Chiara , van Haveren Lourus , McGhie Jackie S , Cuypers Judith A A E , Hirsch Alexander , Roos-Hesselink Jolien W , van den Bosch Annemien E
Published: October 2023

Aims

Advanced transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) using volumetric and deformational indices provides detailed quantification of right ventricular (RV) function in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). Two-dimensional multi-plane echocardiography (2D-MPE) has demonstrated regional wall differences in RV longitudinal strain (LS). This study aims to evaluate the association of these parameters with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR).

Methods and results

One-hundred stable ACHD patients with primarily affected RVs were included (age 50 ± 5 years; 53% male). Conventional and advanced echocardiographic RV functional parameters were compared with CMR-derived RV function. Advanced echocardiographic RV functional parameters were measurable in approximately one-half of the study cohort, while multi-wall LS assessment feasibility was lower. CMR RV ejection fraction (CMR-RVEF) was moderately correlated with deformational, area, and volumetric parameters [RV global LS (lateral wall and septum), n = 55: r = −0.62, P < 0.001; RV wall average LS, n = 34: r = −0.49, P = 0.002; RV lateral wall LS, n = 56: r = −0.45, P < 0.001; fractional area change, n = 67: r = 0.48, P < 0.001; 3D-RVEF, n = 48: r = 0.40, P = 0.005]. Conventional measurements such as TAPSE and RV S′ correlated poorly. RV global LS best identified CMR-RVEF < 45% (area under the curve: 0.84, P < 0.001: cut-off value −19%: sensitivity 100%, specificity 57%). RVEF and LS values were significantly higher when measured by CMR compared with TTE (mean difference RVEF: 5 [−9 to 18] %; lateral (free) wall LS: −7 [7 to −21] %; RV global LS: −6 [5 to −16] %) while there was no association between respective LS values.

Conclusion

In ACHD patients, advanced echocardiographic RV functional parameters are moderately correlated with CMR-RVEF, although significant differences exist between indices measurable by both modalities.
The cardiopulmonary exercise test in the prognostic evaluation of patients with heart failure and cardiomyopathies: the long history of making a one-size-fits-all suit
Authors: Salvioni Elisabetta , Bonomi Alice , Magrì Damiano , Merlo Marco , Pezzuto Beatrice , Chiesa Mattia , Mapelli Massimo , Baracchini Nikita , Sinagra Gianfranco , Piepoli Massimo , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) has become pivotal in the functional evaluation of patients with chronic heart failure (HF), supplying a holistic evaluation both in terms of exercise impairment degree and possible underlying mechanisms. Conversely, there is growing interest in investigating possible multiparametric approaches in order to improve the overall HF risk stratification.

In such a context, in 2013, a group of 13 Italian centres skilled in HF management and CPET analysis built the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score, based on the dynamic assessment of HF patients and on some other instrumental and laboratory parameters. Subsequently, the MECKI score, initially developed on a cohort of 2716 HF patients, has been extensively validated as well as challenged with the other multiparametric scores, achieving optimal results. Meanwhile, the MECKI score research group has grown over time, involving up to now a total of 27 centres with an available database accounting for nearly 8000 HF patients. This exciting joint effort from multiple HF Italian centres allowed to investigate different HF research field in order to deepen the mechanisms underlying HF, to improve the ability to identify patients at the highest risk as well as to analyse particular HF categories. Most recently, some of the participants of the MECKI score group started to join the forces in investigating a possible additive role of CPET assessment in the cardiomyopathy setting too.

The present study tells the ten-year history of the MECKI score presenting the most important results achieved as well as those projects in the pipeline, this exciting journey being far to be concluded.
The potential impact of clinical decision support on nonwaivered primary care clinicians’ prescribing of buprenorphine
Authors: Olson Anthony W , Haapala Jacob L , Hooker Stephanie A , Solberg Leif I , Borgert-Spaniol Caitlin M , Romagnoli Katrina M , Allen Clayton I , Tusing Lorraine D , Wright Eric A , Haller Irina V , Rossom Rebecca C
Published: October 2023

Elimination of the X-waiver increased potential buprenorphine prescribers 13-fold, but growth in prescribing will likely be much lower. We explored self-assessments of nonwaivered primary care clinicians (PCCs) for factors affecting their likelihood to prescribe buprenorphine were the X-waiver eliminated (since realized January 2023) and the potential impacts of a clinical decision-support (CDS) tool for opioid use disorder (OUD). Cross-sectional survey data were obtained between January 2021 and March 2022 from 305 nonwaivered PCCs at 3 health systems. Factors explored were patient requests for buprenorphine, PCC access to an OUD-CDS, and PCC confidence and abilities for 5 OUD-care activities. Relationships were described using descriptive statistics and odds ratios. Only 26% of PCCs were more likely to prescribe buprenorphine upon patient request, whereas 63% were more likely to prescribe with the OUD-CDS. PCC confidence and abilities for some OUD-care activities were associated with increased prescribing likelihood from patient requests, but none were associated with the OUD-CDS. The OUD-CDS may increase buprenorphine prescribing for PCCs less likely to prescribe upon patient request. Future research is needed to develop interventions that increase PCC buprenorphine prescribing.

Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT04198428.

Clinical trial name: Clinical Decision Support for Opioid Use Disorders in Medical Settings (Compute 2.0)
Theoretical framework of concerns about falling in older people: the role of health literacy
Authors: Lim Mei Ling , van Schooten Kimberley S , Radford Kylie A , Hadjistavropoulos Thomas , Everett Bronwyn , Zijlstra Rixt , Delbaere Kim
Published: October 2023

Adherence and participation can be improved in health programs for older people with concerns about falling. While health literacy empowers older people to have greater control over their health, little is known about the extent to which health literacy influences health behaviours associated with concerns about falling in older people. This study aimed to synthesise current findings on health literacy, concerns about falling and falls to propose a multicomponent theoretical model on health literacy and concerns about falling. The model was developed based on a review of the literature, existing frameworks and models on health literacy and concerns about falling. Existing evidence on the relationship between health literacy and concerns about falling in older people is limited. Evidence from other research areas, however, shows that health literacy is closely related to many of the determinants of concerns about falling. More research is needed to clarify the impact of health literacy on intervention adherence and decision-making processes of older people with concerns about falling. Our model offers a novel perspective on the role of health literacy in health behaviours associated with concerns about falling, suggesting new research directions and providing insights for clinicians to consider health literacy when managing older patients with concerns about falling.
PLAAT1 expression triggers fragmentation of mitochondria in an enzyme activity-dependent manner
Authors: Sikder Mohammad Mamun , Uyama Toru , Sasaki Sumire , Kawai Katsuhisa , Araki Nobukazu , Ueda Natsuo
Published: October 2023

The phospholipase A and acyltransferase (PLAAT) family is a protein family consisting of five members (PLAAT1–5), which acts as phospholipid-metabolizing enzymes with phospholipase A1/A2 and N-acyltransferase activities. Since we previously reported that the overexpression of PLAAT3 in mammalian cells causes the specific disappearance of peroxisomes, in the present study we examined a possible effect of PLAAT1 on organelles. We prepared HEK293 cells expressing mouse PLAAT1 in a doxycycline-dependent manner and found that the overexpression of PLAAT1 resulted in the transformation of mitochondria from the original long rod shape to a round shape, as well as their fragmentation. In contrast, the overexpression of a catalytically inactive point mutant of PLAAT1 did not generate any morphological change in mitochondria, suggesting the involvement of catalytic activity. PLAAT1 expression also caused the reduction of peroxisomes, while the levels of the marker proteins for ER, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes were almost unchanged. In PLAAT1-expressing cells, the level of dynamin-related protein 1 responsible for mitochondrial fission was increased, whereas those of optic atrophy 1 and mitofusin 2, both of which are responsible for mitochondrial fusion, were reduced. These results suggest a novel role of PLAAT1 in the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis.
Transcriptome analysis used to identify and characterize odorant binding proteins in Agasicles hygrophila (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Dong Changhong , Huang Cong , Ning Xiaoyu , Liu Bo , Qiao Xi , Qian Wanqiang , Zhu Daohong , Wan Fanghao
Published: October 2023

The transcriptomes of Agasicles hygrophila eggs and first instar larvae were analyzed to explore the olfactory mechanism of larval behavior. The analysis resulted in 135,359 unigenes and the identification of 38 odorant-binding proteins (OBPs), including 23 Minus-C OBPs, 8 Plus-C OBPs, and 7 Classic OBPs. Further analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) revealed 10 DEG OBPs, with 5 (AhygOBP5, AhygOBP9, AhygOBP12, AhygOBP15 and AhygOBP36) up-regulated in first instar larvae. Verification of expression patterns of these 5 AhygOBPs using qPCR showed that AhygOBP9 and AhygOBP36 were mainly expressed in the adult stage with gradually increasing expression in the larval stage. AhygOBP5, AhygOBP12, and AhygOBP15 were not expressed in eggs and pupae, and their expression in larvae and adults showed no clear pattern. These 5 AhygOBPs may play an olfactory role in larval behavior, providing a basis for further investigation of their specific functions and clarifying the olfactory mechanism of A. hygrophila.
DNA degradation in Haplaxius crudus (Hemiptera: Cixiidae) and Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) on yellow sticky traps in Florida
Authors: Bloch Melody , Mou De-Fen , Helmick Ericka E , Pelz-Stelinski Kirsten , Bahder Brian W
Published: October 2023

Lethal bronzing (LB) and huanglongbing (HLB) are harmful plant diseases causing significant economic losses in Florida agriculture. Both diseases are caused by bacteria that are transmitted by Hemipteran insect vectors. Accurate detection of pathogens within insect vectors can help provide a better understanding of disease epidemiology. Monitoring of the vector of LB is done primarily using sticky traps within palm canopies. However, it is unknown how long pathogen and vector DNA remain intact under field conditions. If significant DNA degradation takes place over the course of days or weeks, there is a possibility of false negatives occurring when detecting pathogens from these surveys. This study determined how long Haplaxius crudus Van Duzee (Hemiptera: Cixiidae) and LB DNA could remain detectable on sticky traps under field conditions in Florida in winter and summer, using PCR and qPCR. Additionally, this study compared the DNA degradation of Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) and Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the causal agent of HLB. The results showed that DNA concentration and amplification rate declined as time on sticky traps increased. Degradation varied between different target genes. The amplification rate of insect genes from sticky trap samples suggests that sticky traps should be changed weekly in summer, and every 2 wk in winter for accurate H. crudus detection. Traps should be changed every 4 days for phytoplasma detection. Traps can be changed monthly for accurate D. citri and CLas detection. Based on these results, standard monitoring protocols can be implemented to more accurately detect vectors and pathogens.
CD6 triggers actomyosin cytoskeleton remodeling after binding to its receptor complex
Authors: Borjini Nozha , Lun Yu , Jang Geen-Fu , Crabb Jack , Chen Yinghua , Crabb John , Fox David A , Ivanov Andrei I , Lin Feng
Published: October 2023

The T cell marker CD6 regulates both T cells and target cells during inflammatory responses by interacting with its receptors. However, only a few receptors binding to the extracellular domains of CD6 have been identified, and cellular events induced by CD6 engagement with its receptors in target cells remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified CD44 as a novel CD6 receptor by proximity labeling and confirmed the new CD6-CD44 interaction by biochemical and biophysical approaches. CD44 and the other 2 known CD6 receptors, CD166 and CDCP1, were distributed diffusely on resting retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells but clustered together to form a receptor complex upon CD6 binding. CD6 stimulation induced dramatic remodeling of the actomyosin cytoskeleton in RPE cells mediated by activation of RhoA, and Rho-associated kinase signaling, resulting in increased myosin II phosphorylation. Such actomyosin activation triggered the disassembly of tight junctions responsible for RPE barrier integrity in a process that required all components of the tripartite CD6 receptor complex. These data provided new insights into the mechanisms by which CD6 mediates T cell–driven disruption of tissue barriers during inflammation.
Concentration and Competition: Evidence From Europe and Implications For Policy
Authors: Koltay Gábor , Lorincz Szabolcs , Valletti Tommaso
Published: October 2023

The paper provides new evidence on proxy indicators of market power for major European countries. The data show moderately increasing average industry concentration over the last two decades, a considerably increasing proportion of high-concentration industries, and an overall tendency toward oligopolistic structure. Estimates of aggregate profitability also show a sustained increase over the recent decades for European economies. Although the academic and policy debate is not settled as to whether the causes of these trends are policy driven or reflect technological improvement, our findings suggest that competition policy is likely to face more challenges as large companies are becoming more common in more and more industries.
A national survey on the medical physics workload of external beam radiotherapy in Japan
Authors: Tohyama Naoki , Okamoto Hiroyuki , Shimomura Kohei , Kurooka Masahiko , Kawamorita Ryu , Ota Seiichi , Kojima Toru , Hayashi Naoki , Okumura Masahiko , Nakamura Masaru , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Myojoyama Atsushi , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: October 2023

Several staffing models are used to determine the required medical physics staffing, including radiotherapy technologists, of radiation oncology departments. However, since Japanese facilities tend to be smaller in scale than foreign ones, those models might not apply to Japan. Therefore, in this study, we surveyed workloads in Japan to estimate the optimal medical physics staffing in external beam radiotherapy. A total of 837 facilities were surveyed to collect information regarding radiotherapy techniques and medical physics specialists (RTMPs). The survey covered facility information, staffing, patient volume, equipment volume, workload and quality assurance (QA) status. Full-time equivalent (FTE) factors were estimated from the workload and compared with several models. Responses were received from 579 facilities (69.2%). The median annual patient volume was 369 at designated cancer care hospitals (DCCHs) and 252 across all facilities. In addition, the median FTE of RTMPs was 4.6 at DCCHs and 3.0 at all sites, and the average QA implementation rate for radiotherapy equipment was 69.4%. Furthermore, advanced treatment technologies have increased workloads, particularly in computed tomography simulations and treatment planning tasks. Compared to published models, larger facilities (over 500 annual patients) had a shortage of medical physics staff. In very small facilities (about 140 annual patients), the medical physics staffing requirement was estimated to be 0.5 FTE, implying that employing a full-time medical physicist would be inefficient. However, ensuring the quality of radiotherapy is an important issue, given the limited number of RTMPs. Our study provides insights into optimizing staffing and resource allocation in radiotherapy departments.
The Convent Camp: Sacred Places in Palestinian Refugee History
Authors: Goodgame Clayton
Published: October 2023

In 1948, thousands of Palestinians fled to the Old City of Jerusalem, where many Orthodox Christians were housed by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. This article asks how Jerusalem refugee histories change when we consider the patriarchate’s characteristics as an informal camp. The religious dimensions of camps are often overlooked, and the article suggests that recognizing them affords a better understanding of the forms of historical consciousness that refugee camps foster. Drawing on memoirs of Palestinian Orthodox refugees and ethnography from contemporary Jerusalem, the article highlights the powerful role sacred sites have played in the preservation of refugee history since the war, and the effect they have on the political dynamics of the church and the Old City of Jerusalem.
Oxygen, crampons, data: Can statistics help us climb Everest?
Authors: Bhaduri Moinak
Published: October 2023

Climbing mountains is a risky business, and mountaineers disagree on the best way to do it. Moinak Bhaduri explains how a statistical approach can give your expedition the best chance of success
“This should be a wake-up call”: How to improve people’s faith in economic statistics
Authors: Runge Johnny
Published: October 2023

Johnny Runge has used qualitative methods, such as interviews, focus groups and surveys, to explore public perceptions of the economy – and discovered sobering levels of misunderstanding and distrust
Lightweight macroporous mesh can be used for corporal reconstruction during penile prosthesis surgery
Authors: Lee Wai Gin , Gordon Patrick , Ralph David
Published: October 2023

Background

Options to reinforce or reconstruct the corpora cavernosa during penile prosthesis surgery are limited. Synthetic grafts may confer a higher infection risk. Lightweight macroporous mesh is a promising alternative due to better integration and tissue ingrowth.

Aim

The study sought to report the first experience of using lightweight mesh to reinforce or reconstruct the corpora.

Methods

The medical records of all patients undergoing insertion or revision of penile prosthesis between May 2016 and May 2021 were reviewed retrospectively. Patient characteristics, management, and outcomes were extracted in which mesh was used for corporal reconstruction. Poliglecaprone-25/polypropylene mesh (UltraPro) was used in all cases. The surgical technique and alternatives were summarized.

Outcomes

The outcomes were infection rate, postoperative complications by Clavien-Dindo classification, and patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Mesh was required during penile prosthesis surgery in 21 men (median age 56 [range, 18-74] years). Reasons for reconstruction were severe corporal fibrosis (n = 6), impending erosion (n = 6), crossover/perforation (n = 6), congenital corporal agenesis (n = 2), and excision of Peyronie’s plaque. All but 2 patients (with corporal agenesis) presented for revision penile prosthesis surgery with a median number of previous revision attempts of 2 (range, 1-5). Two (10%) patients required explant after a mean follow-up of 23 ± 8.7 months. One man developed infection of the device 2 years after surgery, translating to an infection rate of 5% despite a high prevalence of diabetes (25%) in this cohort. Another required explantation due to debilitating chronic pain after 3 months. Further revision surgery for stiction syndrome was required in a third patient. Finally, another man was not satisfied with the position of the pump within the scrotum or the axial rigidity of the device, despite a second opinion suggesting no issues with the device. All men were sexually active following surgery.

Clinical implications

A lightweight mesh can be considered to reinforce or reconstruct the corpora cavernosa in complex cases in which there are no alternative techniques available.

Strengths and limitations

This is the first study using a lightweight macroporous mesh for revision penile prosthesis surgery. This was a well-characterized cohort of patients. A larger cohort with 5-year follow-up would be preferable.

Conclusion

These early results suggest that a lightweight macroporous mesh may be an acceptable synthetic graft for corporal reconstruction. Poliglecaprone-25/polypropylene mesh may be ideal because it is partially absorbable, easy to handle, and not bulky.
An X-rays-to-radio investigation of the nuclear polarization from the radio-galaxy Centaurus A
Authors: Marin Frédéric , Barnouin Thibault , Ehlert Steven R , Peirson Abel Lawrence , Lopez-Rodriguez Enrique , Petropoulou Maria , Wu Kinwah , Martí-Vidal Iván
Published: October 2023

Centaurus A is one of the closest radio galaxies to Earth. Its proximity allowed us to extensively study its active galactic nucleus but the core emission mechanism remains elusive because of local strong dust and gas obscuration. The capability of polarimetry to shave-off contaminating emission has been exploited without success in the near-infrared by previous studies but the very recent measurement of the 2–8 keV polarization by the Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) brought the question back to the fore. To determine what is the prevalent photon generation mechanism to the multiwavelength emission from the core of Centaurus A, we retrieved from the archives the panchromatic polarization measurements of the central compact component. We built the total and polarized flux spectral energy distributions of the core and demonstrated that synchrotron self-Compton models nicely fit the polarized flux from the radio to the X-ray band. The linear polarization of the synchrotron continuum is perpendicular to the jet radio axis from the optical to the radio band, and parallel to it at higher energies. The observed smooth rotation of the polarization angle in the ultraviolet band is attributed to synchrotron emission from regions that are getting closer to the particle acceleration site, where the orientation of the jet’s magnetic fields become perpendicular to the jet axis. This phenomenon support the shock acceleration mechanism for particle acceleration in Centaurus A, in line with IXPE observations of several high-synchrotron peak blazars.
Obscuration beyond the nucleus: infrared quasars can be buried in extreme compact starbursts
Authors: Andonie Carolina , Alexander David M , Greenwell Claire , Puglisi Annagrazia , Laloux Brivael , Alonso-Tetilla Alba V , Calistro Rivera Gabriela , Harrison Chris , Hickox Ryan C , Kaasinen Melanie , Lapi Andrea , López Iván E , Petter Grayson , Almeida Cristina Ramos , Rosario David J , Shankar Francesco , Villforth Carolin
Published: October 2023

In the standard quasar model, the accretion disc obscuration is due to the canonical dusty torus. Here, we argue that a substantial part of the quasar obscuration can come from the interstellar medium (ISM) when the quasars are embedded in compact starbursts. We use an obscuration-unbiased sample of 578 infrared (IR) quasars at z ≈ 1–3 and archival Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array submillimetre host galaxy sizes to investigate the ISM contribution to the quasar obscuration. We calculate star formation rates (SFR) and ISM column densities for the IR quasars and a control sample of submillimetre galaxies (SMGs) not hosting quasar activity and show that: (1) the quasar obscured fraction is constant up to $\rm SFR\approx 300 \: {\rm M}_{\odot } \: yr^{-1}$, and then increases towards higher SFR, suggesting that the ISM obscuration plays a significant role in starburst host galaxies, and (2) at $\rm SFR\gtrsim 300 \: {\rm M}_{\odot } \: yr^{-1}$, the SMGs and IR quasars have similarly compact submillimetre sizes ($R_{\rm e}\approx 0.5{\!-\!}3\,\mathrm{ kpc}$) and consequently, the ISM can heavily obscure the quasar, even reaching Compton-thick ($N_{\rm H}\gt 10^{24} \rm \: cm^{-2}$) levels in extreme cases. Based on our results, we infer that ${\approx} 10{\!-\!}30~{{ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the IR quasars with $\rm SFR\gtrsim 300 \: {\rm M}_{\odot } \: yr^{-1}$ are obscured solely by the ISM.
Japan College of Rheumatology guidance for the use of methotrexate in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Secondary publication
Authors: Kameda Hideto , Yamaoka Kunihiro , Yamanishi Yuji , Tada Masahiro , Koike Ryuji , Nakajima Ayako , Fusama Mie , Fujii Takao
Published: October 2023

Methotrexate (MTX), the anchor drug in the current treatment strategy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), was first approved for the treatment of RA in Japan in 1999 at a recommended dose of 6–8 mg/week. The approved maximum dose of MTX has been 16 mg/week since February 2011 when MTX was approved as a first-line drug in the treatment of RA. Recent evidence of MTX-polyglutamate concentration in the red blood cells of Japanese patients with RA justifies the current daily use of MTX in Japan. Additionally, after a nationwide clinical trial, a subcutaneous MTX injection formula (7.5–15 mg/week) was approved for RA treatment in September 2022. Therefore, in March 2023, a subcommittee of the Japan College of Rheumatology updated the guidance (formerly ‘guidelines’) for the use of MTX in Japanese patients with RA. This article, an abridged English translation summarizing the 2023 update of the Japan College of Rheumatology guidance for the use of MTX and management of patients with RA, will be helpful to both Japanese and global rheumatology communities.
Emerging roles of the CIP2A–TopBP1 complex in genome integrity
Authors: Ummethum Henning , Li Jiayi , Lisby Michael , Oestergaard Vibe H
Published: October 2023

CIP2A is an inhibitor of the tumour suppressor protein phosphatase 2A. Recently, CIP2A was identified as a synthetic lethal interactor of BRCA1 and BRCA2 and a driver of basal-like breast cancers. In addition, a joint role of TopBP1 (topoisomerase IIβ-binding protein 1) and CIP2A for maintaining genome integrity during mitosis was discovered. TopBP1 has multiple functions as it is a scaffold for proteins involved in DNA replication, transcriptional regulation, cell cycle regulation and DNA repair. Here, we briefly review details of the CIP2A–TopBP1 interaction, its role in maintaining genome integrity, its involvement in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Analysis of Plant-Specific ANTH Domain–Containing Protein in Marchantia polymorpha
Authors: Minamino Naoki , Fujii Haruki , Murata Haruhiko , Hachinoda Sho , Kondo Yohei , Hotta Kazuhiro , Ueda Takashi
Published: October 2023

Membrane trafficking is a fundamental mechanism for protein and lipid transport in eukaryotic cells and exhibits marked diversity among eukaryotic lineages with distinctive body plans and lifestyles. Diversification of the membrane trafficking system is associated with the expansion and secondary loss of key machinery components, including RAB GTPases, soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) and adaptor proteins, during plant evolution. The number of AP180 N-terminal homology (ANTH) proteins, an adaptor family that regulates vesicle formation and cargo sorting during clathrin-mediated endocytosis, increases during plant evolution. In the genome of Arabidopsis thaliana, 18 genes for ANTH proteins have been identified, a higher number than that in yeast and animals, suggesting a distinctive diversification of ANTH proteins. Conversely, the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha possesses a simpler repertoire; only two genes encoding canonical ANTH proteins have been identified in its genome. Intriguingly, a non-canonical ANTH protein is encoded in the genome of M. polymorpha, which also harbors a putative kinase domain. Similar proteins have been detected in sporadic lineages of plants, suggesting their ancient origin and multiple secondary losses during evolution. We named this unique ANTH group phosphatidylinositol-binding clathrin assembly protein-K (PICALM-K) and characterized it in M. polymorpha using genetic, cell biology–based and artificial intelligence (AI)–based approaches. Our results indicate a flagella-related function of MpPICALM-K in spermatozoids, which is distinct from that of canonical ANTH proteins. Therefore, ANTH proteins have undergone significant functional diversification during evolution, and PICALM-K represents a plant-unique ANTH protein that is delivered by neofunctionalization through exon shuffling.
PEP-ASSOCIATED PROTEIN 3 regulates rice tiller formation and grain yield by controlling chloroplast biogenesis
Authors: Seo Deok Hyun , Jang Jinwoo , Park Dongryeol , Yoon Youngdae , Choi Yang Do , Jang Geupil
Published: October 2023

Plastid-encoded RNA polymerase (PEP) plays a pivotal role in chloroplast development by governing the transcription of chloroplast genes, and PEP-associated proteins (PAPs) modulate PEP transcriptional activity. Therefore, PAPs provide an intriguing target for those efforts to improve yield, by enhancing chloroplast development. In this study, we identified the rice (Oryza sativa) OsPAP3 gene and characterized its function in chloroplast development. OsPAP3 expression was light-dependent and leaf-specific, similar to the PEP-dependent chloroplast gene RUBISCO LARGE SUBUNIT (OsRbcL), and OsPAP3 protein localized to chloroplast nucleoids where PEP functions. Analysis of loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutants showed that the expression of OsPAP3 is tightly linked to chloroplast gene expression and chloroplast biogenesis in rice. Homozygous knockout mutants of OsPAP3 had fewer chloroplasts than wild type, whereas plants overexpressing OsPAP3 had more chloroplasts. Also, OsPAP3 knockout suppressed the PEP-dependent expression of chloroplast genes, but OsPAP3 overexpression increased their expression. These findings indicate that OsPAP3 regulates chloroplast biogenesis in rice by controlling the PEP-dependent expression of chloroplast genes. More importantly, data from 3 seasons of field cultivation revealed that the overexpression of OsPAP3 improves rice grain yield by approximately 25%, largely due to increased tiller formation. Collectively, these observations suggest that OsPAP3 regulates rice growth and productivity by promoting chloroplast development.
A mini-review on how the COVID-19 pandemic affected intertemporal choice
Authors: Zhang Xinwen , Wu Ziyun , He Qinghua
Published: October 2023

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has extremely harmful effects on individual lifestyles, and at present, people must make financial or survival decisions under the profound changes frequently. Although it has been reported that COVID-19 changed decision-making patterns, the underlying mechanisms remained unclear. This mini-review focuses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intertemporal choice, and potential psychological, biological, and social factors that mediate this relationship. A search of the Web of Science electronic database yielded 23 studies. The results showed that under the COVID-19 pandemic, people tended to choose immediate and smaller rewards, and became less patient. In particular, people with negative emotions, in a worse condition of physical health, or who did not comply with their government restriction rules tended to become more "short-sighted" in behavioral terms. Future studies should examine more longitudinal and cross-cultural research to give a broad view about the decision-making change under the COVID-19 pandemic.
Environmental factors affecting the risk of generalization for ocular-onset myasthenia gravis: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Wang Jingsi , Zhou Hongyu , Chen Hongxi , Feng Huiyu , Chang Ting , Sun Chao , Guo Rongjing , Ruan Zhe , Bi Fangfang , Li Jing , Wang Jianwen , Wang Kang , Ma Gaoting , Lei Shaoyuan , Wang Chunxiu , Wang Zhihong , Huang Feifei , Zhang Shu , Wen Qi , Wang Yaye , Sun Yanan , Li Yun , Xie Nairong , Liu Haoran , Jiang Yuting , Lei Lin , Fan Zhirong , Su Shengyao , Lu Yan , Di Li , Xu Min , Wang Min , Chen Hai , Wang Suobin , Wen Xinmei , Zhu Wenjia , Duo Jianying , Huang Yue , Zheng Deqiang , Da Yuwei
Published: October 2023

Background

The environmental effects on the prognosis of ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG) remain largely unexplored.

Aim

To investigate the association between specific environmental factors and the generalization of OMG.

Design

The cohort study was conducted in China based on a nationwide multicenter database.

Methods

Adult patients with OMG at onset, who were followed up for at least 2 years until May 2022, were included. We collected data on demographic and clinical factors, as well as environmental factors, including latitude, socioeconomic status (per capita disposable income [PDI] at provincial level and education) and smoking. The study outcome was the time to the development of generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG). Cox models were employed to examine the association between environmental exposures and generalization. Restricted cubic spline was used to model the association of latitude with generalization risk.

Results

A total of 1396 participants were included. During a median follow-up of 5.15 (interquartile range [IQR] 3.37–9.03) years, 735 patients developed GMG within a median of 5.69 (IQR 1.10–15.66) years. Latitude of 20–50°N showed a U-shaped relation with generalization risk, with the lowest risk at around 30°N; both higher and lower latitudes were associated with the increased risk (P for non-linearity <0.001). Living in areas with lower PDI had 1.28–2.11 times higher risk of generalization. No significant association was observed with education or smoking.

Conclusions

Latitude and provincial-level PDI were associated with the generalization of OMG in China. Further studies are warranted to validate our findings and investigate their potential applications in clinical practice and health policy.
IN VIVO public monitoring in emergency exposure scenarios by means of spectrometric and non-spetrometric devices
Authors: Sperandio L , Antonacci G , Battisti P , Ciciani L , Rizzo A , Vilardi I
Published: October 2023

In a nuclear or radiological accident scenario, when potentially members of the public can undergo internal contamination by anthropogenic radionuclides released in the atmosphere, effective methods that can be used directly in the field to perform a fast scan for internal contamination on a large number of individuals can play a major role to undertake appropriate countermeasures. Specific attention should be paid to the individual monitoring of children since they constitute the sensitive population group with the highest risk of developing cancer. At the ENEA Casaccia Research Center in Rome (Italy), monitoring procedures based on a portable HPGe detector and ratemeters were tested in the field. A total of 170 acquisitions of uncontaminated volunteers for the blank measurements were collected, 105 acquisitions on adult and 65 acquisitions on 10-y/o children. The detection limit calculation, in terms of activity taken up (Bq), was carried out according to the Standard ISO’s 11929 and 28218, whereas the corresponding ‘minimum effective dose’ (mSv) was calculated based on international commission on radiological protection (ICRP) Publications 134, 137 and 141. Results and evaluations of the measurement campaign are presented and discussed in respect to the aspects reported in the current literature.
Comparison between CLYC-6 and 3He for thermal neutron detection
Authors: Ferrulli Francesca , Silari Marco , Zorloni Gabriele
Published: October 2023

A Cs2LiYCl6:Ce crystal, enriched in 6Li to > 95% (CLYC-6), was investigated for thermal neutron detection: it was characterised in terms of intrinsic efficiency and γ-ray discrimination capability and compared with a 3He counter (partial 3He pressure 2.3 atm). The intrinsic efficiency was determined by irradiating the detectors with thermal neutrons. The γ-ray discrimination capability was evaluated in a mixed neutron/137Cs field. The intrinsic efficiency per unit volume is about a factor of 6.45 larger for CLYC-6 than for the 3He counter. The detectors’ performances in the presence of an intense γ-ray background are comparable: up to γ-ray fluence rates of the order of 105 cm−2·s−1, both detectors correctly reject γ-rays. At fluence rates of the order of 106 cm−2·s−1, CLYC-6 starts being affected by count losses due to γ-ray-induced dead time, while the 3He counter starts suffering from pile-up. Above this γ-ray intensity, both detectors are not reliable.
Biokinetic model analysis with DTPA administration for a case of accidental inhalation of actinides in Japan
Authors: Tani Kotaro , Ishigure Nobuhito , Kim Eunjoo , Tominaga Takako , Tatsuzaki Hideo , Akashi Makoto , Kurihara Osamu
Published: October 2023

Accidental inhalation intake of plutonium isotopes and 241Am occurred at a Pu research facility in Japan in 2017, and the five workers involved in this accident were treated by the administration of Ca/Zn-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA). For the worker who was most internally exposed, the therapy was continued over 1 y after the accident. Urinary samples collected before and after each administration were subject to bioassay to evaluate the efficacy of the dose reduction. This study performed numerical analyses using a biokinetic model dealing with 241Am-DTPA with reference to the European Coordinated Network on Radiation Dosimetry approach, which assumes that the complex of actinides and Ca/Zn-DTPA is generated in the designated compartments in the biokinetic model. The results of the model prediction well captured the trend of the observed urinary excretion in the long-term bioassay and would be useful to evaluate the efficacy of the Ca/Zn-DTPA administration for the worker involved in the accident.
Optimization of calibration interval based on equipment metrological history
Authors: Moreno Brahim
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this paper is to describe a method for optimizing the calibration period of a dosimetry measurement system with a focus on the personal dose equivalents Hp(d) and individual monitoring services. The systematic and analytical method developed provides a justification to the calibration interval based on experimental data and measurement uncertainties. Its main input is the metrological history of the equipment that is then used to predict the drift of the measurement system. The method is used to make the calibration operation more efficient over time in terms of cost and metrology. After a description of the method itself, the example of the OSL dosemeter reading process will be discussed and results will be shown. The method developed may be applied to other measurement processes no matter the technology used.
Development of ring radiation dosemeters using 3D printing
Authors: Melo Gabriela T P , Vasconcelos Filho Wlademir C , Khoury Helen J , Asfora Viviane K , de Barros Vinicius M
Published: October 2023

Extremity radiation monitoring is an important tool for the assessment of occupational exposures to staff at a variety of workplaces where ionising radiation is used. This work shows the feasibility of applying 3D printing for the development of customisable ring dosemeters. The rings were developed using two types of resin, hard and flexible and has the possibility of sterilisation using different techniques. The printed ring dosemeter was associated with BeO optically stimulated dosemeters. The energy and angular response were found within ±20% in the energy range from 24 to 662 keV and from 0° to 60° angle of incidence. This contributes to the reduction of measurement uncertainty when compared with currently used thermoluminescent detectors dosemeters. The new ring dosemeter showed a satisfactory response with respect to the performance criteria of the IEC 62387 Standard, in addition to providing improved ergonomics in relation to the commercial ring dosemeter.
Comparing the effects of various (p,xn) radionuclide production routes on induced radioactivity in the concrete walls of a cyclotron vault
Authors: Fang Po-Wen , Hsieh Ying-I , Sheu Rong-Jiun
Published: October 2023

In sum, 11 (p,xn) related nuclear reactions with 9 target materials, namely 18O(p,n)18F, 15N(p,n)15O, 68Zn(p,n)68Ga, 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga, 69Ga(p,2n)68Ge, 89Y(p,n)89Zr, 100Mo(p,pn)99Mo, 100Mo(p,2n)99mTc, 112Cd(p,2n)111In, 124Xe(p,2n)123Cs and 203Tl(p,3n)201Pb, are involved in the operation of 13 radionuclide-production cyclotrons in Taiwan. The secondary neutrons accompanying these production routes could induce varying degrees of material activation in the cyclotron facility. Accordingly, this study compared the effects of various (p,xn) production routes on the neutron-induced long-lived radioactivity in the concrete walls of a hypothetical cyclotron vault. In addition, an activation-reduction approach involving the addition of a layer of neutron-absorbing material to the surface of inner concrete walls was evaluated.
Shielding analysis of the proton therapy facility at China Medical University Hospital: comparison of a simplified approach with Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Hsieh Ying-I , Lai Bo-Lun , Shiau An-Cheng , Chen Huang-Lung , Sheu Rong-Jiun
Published: October 2023

This study comprehensively compared two approaches for analyzing the shielding design of the proton therapy facility at China Medical University Hospital. The first approach essentially involved two approximate models: one for estimating the transmitted radiation through thick shields, and one for estimating radiation streaming at locations near a maze entrance. The second approach relied on Monte Carlo simulations for predicting the radiation field in a complex environment. A total of 22 beam loss scenarios were considered, and dose rates at 32 locations around the facility were estimated using the two approaches. The comparison results demonstrated that the simplified approach proposed in this study can yield fairly accurate or conservative estimates for quickly performing shielding design or dose assessment in a real-world proton therapy facility.
EURADOS intercomparisons on whole-body dosemeters for photons from 2008 to 2020: analysis and comparison of general results
Authors: Stadtmann Hannes , Figel Markus , Grimbergen Tom , McWhan Andrew , Romero Ana Maria
Published: October 2023

Starting in 2008 the European Dosimetry Group (EURADOS) has been performing international intercomparisons (ICs) on photon whole-body dosemeters for individual monitoring services. These ICs have been organized (on a biennial basis) starting 2008 up to 2020 now, each time with a similar set-up but with small alterations in the subsequent irradiation plans. The response for Hp(10) and Hp(0.07) was tested for different radiation qualities, angles of incidences (0°–60°) within a wide range of dose values (0.5–500 mSv), to check energy and angular response, linearity, reproducibility and mixed-field response. Within the last 12 years almost 15 000 whole body dosemeters have been irradiated and the corresponding response values evaluated. With an increasing number of participants and participating systems (from 62 to 132), this IC program has become an important tool for individual monitoring services to test their whole-body dosimetry systems, compare their results with other services or systems and to improve the quality of their dosimetry. The paper presents and compares the general results of these seven ICs and analyses the dosimetric results for the participating system types.
Uncertainties associated with direct thyroid measurements using an NaI(Tl) survey meter: the effect of anatomical differences among individuals
Authors: Narita Masato , Tani Kotaro , Kunishima Naoaki , Kim Eunjoo , Kurihara Osamu
Published: October 2023

Photon detectors utilised for direct thyroid measurements to determine the radioiodine content in the thyroid are normally calibrated using a phantom that mimics the human neck, including the thyroid. However, such measurements are necessarily subject to uncertainty because of the difference between the phantom and the real human subject and also the morphological differences among individuals. In this study, personal voxel phantoms were created from magnetic resonance images of the necks of 24 adult volunteers (15 males and 9 females), and numerical simulations using these phantoms were performed to examine the variation in a conversion factor (131I kBq in the thyroid per μSv h−1) for a conventional NaI(Tl) survey meter among the individuals and also to confirm the suitability of reference Japanese voxel phantoms as a calibration standard for such measurements. As a result, it was found that the conversion factor obtained from the reference Japanese male (female) phantom was 1.29 (1.18) times larger than the average conversion factor for the male (female) subjects, suggesting that the conversion factors of the reference Japanese adult male and female phantoms would generally overestimate the 131I thyroidal contents and that the thyroid volume would be one of the factors influencing the conversion factor. This study also revealed a wide difference in the thyroid volume among individuals, which would be of concern when performing specific dose assessments for heavily exposed persons.
Rapid measurement of actinides in urine by mass and alpha spectrometric methods
Authors: Yang Guosheng , Kim Eunjoo , Zheng Jian , Kowatari Munehiko , Kurihara Osamu
Published: October 2023

To provide timely information for prompting decision-making in emergency radiation therapy, we developed simple and rapid mass and alpha spectrometric methods for urinary bioassays to determine ultra-trace actinide isotopes. For the mass spectrometric method, after organic matter decomposition, LaF3/CaF2 co-precipitation and chromatographic purification using 2 ml of AG MP-1 M anion exchange resin, U and Pu isotopes were measured in a 20-ml urine sample by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. In the alpha spectrometric method, after organic matter decomposition, iron hydroxide co-precipitation and chromatographic purification using 2 ml of TEVA and 2 ml of DGA resin cartridges, Pu, U and Am/Cm isotopes were measured in a 500-ml urine sample by alpha spectrometry. These alpha and mass spectrometric methods were then applied for participation in the 2020 intercomparison organized by the Association for the PROmotion of Quality COntrol in RADiotoxicological Analysis (PROCORAD), France, for method validations.
The EURADOS CR-39 Quality task for the optimisation and harmonisation of personal neutron dosimetry with CR-39 (PADC)
Authors: Bolzonella Matteo , Caresana Marco , Gilvin Philip J , Yukihara Eduardo G , Chevallier Marie-Anne
Published: October 2023

CR-39 (PADC) nuclear track detectors are among the most widespread devices used for personal neutron dosimetry; however, some issues related to the variable material quality of the CR-39 polymer hinder the performance of CR-39-based dosemeters. For this reason, the Working Group 2 (WG2) of the European Radiation Dosimetry Group (EURADOS) has recently launched the CR-39 Quality task, a project aimed at improving and harmonising personal neutron dosimetry with CR-39 in Europe. Whitin this task, a close collaboration among researchers, individual monitoring services and dosemeter grade CR-39 manufacturers is achieved, thus facilitating the direct dialog between producer and consumer to reach an optimised material for personal neutron dosimetry applications.