bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paleoclimate Fluctuations Facilitate the Biogeographical History of Endemic Species of Freshwater Crabs in China via Cycles of Introgressive Hybridisation and Habitat Isolation
Authors: Shi Boyang , Wang Ruxiao , Song Danhong , Xu Juanjuan , Zhu Lin , Sun Yufang , Hu Rui , Cumberlidge Neil , Pan Da , Sun Hongying
Published: December 2024

Aim

The impact of Pleistocene climate fluctuations on the biogeographical history of aquatic species has been a topic of enduring debate. This issue poses particular challenges for parapatric closely related species, especially those situated in transition zones where species assemblages occur between distinct zoogeographic boundaries.

Location

Eastern China.

Taxon

Five closely related Sinopotamon species and subspecies, S. shensiense, S. honanense, S. y. yangtsekiense, S. y. shanxianense, and S. y. tongbaiense.

Methods

These parapatric Sinopotamon species and subspecies, distributed along the boundary between the Palaearctic and Oriental realms in eastern China, offer an ideal model for addressing these challenges. We explored the biogeographic history of these species by conducting a comparative phylogeographic analysis using nine microsatellite loci and two mitochondrial DNA sequences, combined with morphological variation and fine‐tuned ecological niche modelling.

Results

Our phylogeographic analyses consistently revealed two well‐supported clades: clade A, for S. y. yangtsekiense, and clade B, which includes other species showing polyphyletic patterning and significant gene introgression. The Nanyang Basin and surrounding mountains regions (NBSM) was identified as a critical shared refuge and hybrid zone, facilitating interspecific introgression through at least two putative hybridisation events. During the Late Pleistocene glacial cycles, introgressive hybridisation of these species occurred in the NBSM, followed by rapid expansion and colonisation of heterogenous habitats during interglacial cycles, with dispersal corridors largely aligning with the local river system. In particular, the diffusion corridor of S. honanense significantly disrupted the continuous distribution of S. y. shanxianense and S. y. tongbaiense, indicating that S. honanense has replaced S. y. shanxianense and S. y. tongbaiense in the NYSM and caused a disruption in its distribution.

Main Conclusions

The biogeographic histories of the species in clade B are consistent with a mixing–isolation–mixing model, which suggests that populations experienced repeated introgressive hybridisation during glacial periods and regional habitat isolation during interglacial periods. Our findings represent a classic case of fine tracking biogeographical scenarios in parapatric species and provide unprecedented insights into the evolutionary radiation of the freshwater fauna that occupies zoogeographic boundaries.
Urea as a key nitrogen source for the invasion of the southern coast of Portugal by the brown seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae (Dictyotales, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Herrero Javier Jiménez , Alexandre Ana , Silva João , Santos Rui
Published: December 2024

The invasive seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae, native to East Asia, is spreading rapidly along the western Mediterranean and southern Portugal, severely affecting coastal biodiversity, ecosystem structure, and economic sectors such as fisheries and tourism. This study examined the nutrient uptake kinetics of R. okamurae, including ammonium, nitrate, urea, amino acids, and phosphate, and their role in nitrogen and phosphorus budgets based on laboratory growth rates. R. okamurae demonstrated the highest uptake for ammonium (Vmax = 57.95 μmol · g−1 DW · h−1), followed by urea (7.74 μmol · g−1 DW · h−1), nitrate (5.37 μmol · g−1 DW · h−1), and amino acids (3.71 μmol · g−1 DW · h−1). The species showed higher uptake affinity for urea (α = 1.8), which accounted for 70% of nitrogen uptake. Phosphate uptake was low, and total nitrogen uptake exceeded growth requirements. These findings suggest that R. okamurae relies on organic nitrogen (urea) and may guide toward effective management strategies to mitigate its spread in coastal ecosystems.
Predictive Factors for HBsAg Loss in Chronic HBeAg‐Negative Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Insights From a 5‐Year French Cohort
Authors: Causse Xavier , Potier Pascal , Valéry Antoine , Labadie Hélène , Macaigne Gilles , Cadranel Jean‐François , Fontanges Thierry , Mouna Lina , Roque‐Afonso Anne‐Marie ,   the PIBAC Study Group of Association Nationale des Hépato‐Gastroentérologues des Hôpitaux Généraux (ANGH)
Published: December 2024

Prognostic factors for the long‐term evolution of chronic hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection may vary depending on local epidemiology. We aimed to identify these factors in France, where the epidemiology is influenced by diverse immigration. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive, HBeAg‐negative adults with normal transaminase levels and viral loads < 20,000 IU/mL for 1 year, without viral co‐infection or advanced liver disease, were enrolled for a 5‐year follow‐up. A total of 564 patients were recruited from 23 centres (54.4% women, mean age 42.3 ± 12 years, 47.7% from sub‐Saharan Africa). HBV DNA was detectable but < 2000 IU/mL for most (71.3%). Genotypes E (27.8%) and A (20.0%) were predominant. The mean HBsAg titre was 3.8 ± 3.4 log IU/mL, > 1000 IU/mL in 60% of cases, and higher in genotype E (p < 0.0001). During follow‐up, 18 patients received antiviral treatment, 9 for viral reactivation (0.3% per year) and 9 preemptively. HBsAg loss occurred in 39 patients (1.4% per year). These patients were older (p < 0.0001), more frequently treated for dyslipidemia, hypertension or diabetes (p < 0.05), and had lower baseline HBV DNA (p = 0.0112) and HBsAg (p < 0.0001), but similar levels of HBcrAg compared to those who did not clear HBsAg. Baseline HBsAg was the only independent predictor of HBsAg loss (p = 0.009). In this cohort, HBsAg < 153 IU/mL predicted clearance with 87% sensitivity and specificity. In conclusion, baseline HBsAg accurately predicted seroclearance at 5 years in patients with chronic HBeAg‐negative infection, regardless of genotype, sex, or geographical origin, indicating that this marker is widely applicable for reducing the frequency of patient monitoring.
Hepatic Steatosis and Fibrosis, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Metabolic Mediators in the Community
Authors: Florea Victor V. , Gajjar Priya , Huang Shi , Tang Jingxian , Zhao Shilin , Davenport Megan , Mi Michael Y. , Haff Madeleine , Zhang Xiaoyu , Miller Patricia E. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Liu Ching‐Ti , Lewis Gregory D. , Shah Ravi V. , Long Michelle T. , Nayor Matthew
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Individuals with steatotic liver disease (SLD) are at high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but approaches to characterise and mitigate this risk are limited. By investigating relations, and shared metabolic pathways, of hepatic steatosis/fibrosis and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), we sought to identify new avenues for CVD risk reduction in SLD.

Methods

In Framingham Heart Study (FHS) participants (N = 2722, age 54 ± 9 years, 53% women), vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) was performed between 2016–2019 to assess hepatic steatosis (continuous attenuation parameter [CAP]) and fibrosis (liver fibrosis measure [LSM]). Concurrently, participants underwent maximum effort cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), and metabolomic profiling (201 circulating metabolites) was performed in a subsample (N = 1268).

Results

Mean BMI was 28.0 ± 5.3, 27% had hepatic steatosis, 7.6% had fibrosis, and peak oxygen uptake (VO2) was 26.2 ± 6.8 mL/kg/min in men and 20.7 ± 6.0 mL/kg/min in women (95% predicted overall). In linear models adjusted for cardiometabolic risk factors, greater CAP and LSM were associated with lower peak VO2 (p ≤ 0.002 for all), and the CAP association remained significant after BMI adjustment (p < 0.0001). We observed shared metabolic architecture of CAP, LSM, and peak VO2, with metabolites mediating up to 35% (for CAP) and 74% (for LSM) of the association with peak VO2. Metabolite mediators included amino acids and derivatives implicated in cardiometabolic risk and both protective and deleterious lipid species.

Conclusions

Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis are associated with CRF impairment in the community, and these relations are partly mediated by pathways of altered lipid metabolism and general cardiometabolic risk.
Autoimmune‐Like Hepatitis Related to SARS‐CoV‐2 Vaccination: Towards a Clearer Definition
Authors: Efe Cumali , Uzun Sarp , Matter Matthias S. , Terziroli Beretta‐Piccoli Benedetta
Published: December 2024

Vaccines are the most effective tool against COVID‐19 and are generally safe. Very rare and heterogeneous cases of acute liver injury associated to all types of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines have been reported, mostly with autoimmune features. Epidemiological studies used heterogeneous diagnostic criteria and included different populations. Immunological studies in selected cases of acute liver injury linked to mRNA SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines suggest that it has a unique pathophysiology, the vaccine‐encoded spike protein playing a central role in triggering the aberrant immune response. In most series, liver injury was observed more often following the second vaccine dose. Latency from vaccination to the diagnosis of hepatitis was 1–147 days after the last vaccine dose. Raised immunoglobulin G levels and positive anti‐nuclear and/or anti‐smooth muscle antibodies are frequent. The vast majority of reported cases have been treated with corticosteroids, mostly associated with azathioprine. Outcome is generally favourable, but cases requiring liver transplantation or causing death have been reported. The heterogeneous clinical entity of acute liver injury linked to SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines includes patients requiring long‐term immunosuppression, similarly to autoimmune hepatitis, and patients with self‐limiting liver damage, possibly representing a unique form of autoimmune‐like hepatitis, which we suggest being referred to as SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine‐associated liver injury (SVALI). Further studies are needed to investigate the pathogenic mechanisms related to the immune response to the spike viral protein in the liver.
Comparison Between Attenuation Measurement and the Controlled Attenuation Parameter for the Assessment of Hepatic Steatosis Based on MRI Images
Authors: Gotoh Tatsuya , Kumada Takashi , Ogawa Sadanobu , Niwa Fumihiko , Toyoda Hidenori , Hirooka Masashi , Koizumi Yohei , Hiasa Yoichi , Akita Tomoyuki , Tanaka Junko , Shimizu Masahito
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

This study prospectively compared the diagnostic accuracies of the improved Attenuation Measurement (iATT) algorithm and the Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP) and assessed the interchangeability of iATT with magnetic resonance imaging‐derived proton density fat fraction (MRI‐derived PDFF).

Methods

Patients with chronic liver disease were prospectively enrolled and underwent iATT, CAP and MRI‐derived PDFF measurements for hepatic steatosis evaluation. According to MRI‐derived PDFF values, steatosis grades were categorised as steatosis (S)0 (< 5.2%), S1 (≥ 5.2%, < 11.3%), S2 (≥ 11.3%, < 17.1%) and S3 (≥ 17.1%). Correlation coefficients (CCs) were determined, diagnostic performances were compared by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and agreement was evaluated using the calculated percentage error (PE) and expected limit of agreement (LOA).

Results

A total of 414 patients (median age 64 years, 203 females) were evaluated. The CC between iATT and MRI‐derived PDFF was 0.727 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.678–0.770), which was higher than that between CAP and MRI‐derived PDFF at 0.615 (95% CI 0.551–0.672) (p < 0.001). The AUROCs of iATT for ≥ S1, ≥ S2 and ≥ S3 were 0.901 (95% CI 0.870–0.931), 0.878 (95% CI 0.846–0.910) and 0.839 (95% CI 0.794–0.883), respectively. The diagnostic performances of iATT for ≥ S1 and ≥ S2 showed significantly higher AUROCs than those of CAP (p < 0.001, p = 0.036, respectively). The calculated PE and the expected LOA for CAP and iATT were 38.94% and 22.66% and 32.94% and 30.03%, respectively.

Conclusions

iATT was superior to CAP and comparable to MRI‐derived PDFF in assessing hepatic steatosis.

Trial Registration

This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000047411)
Safety, Pharmacokinetics and Antiviral Efficacy of Capsid Assembly Modulator Freethiadine in Healthy Volunteers and Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Li Xiaojiao , Xu Jia , Sun Jixuan , Liu Jingrui , Wu Min , Zhang Hong , Zhu Xiaoxue , Li Cuiyun , Zhang Yingjun , Zhu Jing , Chen Yujie , Luo Lin , He Qingwei , Zhuang Yulei , Chen Yunfu , Niu Junqi , Ding Yanhua
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Freethiadine is a novel hepatitis B virus capsid assembly modulator. Herein, we report the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and 28‐day antiviral activities of freethiadine.

Methods

The study consisted of two parts. Part 1 involved a single‐ascending‐dose, a multiple‐ascending‐dose and a food effect study. Part 2 was a double‐blind, double‐dummy, randomised, entecavir‐controlled, multi‐dose escalation study in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients.

Results

A total of 88 healthy subjects and 40 patients with CHB were enrolled in this study. Freethiadine was well tolerated by both healthy subjects and patients. Among freethiadine‐treated patients with CHB, the most common drug‐related adverse event was alanine aminotransferase elevation (28.1%) (mostly grade 1 or 2). Both HEC160208 and its active metabolite, HEC142106, were rapidly absorbed and eliminated in plasma. Food intake did not significantly influence the exposure of either analyte. Following 28 days of treatment, the mean maximum HBV DNA declines from baseline were −2.76, −3.47, −3.56, −2.89 and −2.55 log10 IU/mL for the 100 mg BID, 200 mg QD, 200 mg BID and 300 mg QD of freethiadine or entecavir control cohorts, respectively; simultaneously, the mean maximum pregenomic RNA (pgRNA) declines from baseline were −1.69, −2.26, −2.07, −1.47 and −0.06 log10 copies/mL, respectively.

Conclusions

Freethiadine has an acceptable safety profile and favourable antiviral activity in patients with CHB. These results support further investigations of freethiadine for the treatment of chronic HBV infection.

Trial Registration

www.clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT05391360; www.chinadrugtrials.org.cn identifier CTR20212114
A Simple Model of Intergenerational Mobility Under the Heterogeneous Effects of Public Expenditure
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Xu Yanhua
Published: December 2024

This paper analyzes the relationships among intergenerational mobility, human capital and public expenditure. We propose to incorporate the heterogeneous effects of public expenditure into a standard overlapping generations model of human capital accumulation. We show that these heterogeneous effects alter the shape of the relationships among intergenerational mobility, human capital and public expenditure in a way that has new policy implications. First, intergenerational mobility depends on the heterogeneous effects of public expenditure. Second, the relationship between public expenditure and intergenerational mobility can be either positive or negative. Third, public expenditure produces a non‐monotonic effect on human capital. We find that when fiscal policy increases intergenerational mobility, the level of human capital may decrease. The government may therefore face a trade‐off between fostering intergenerational mobility and increasing the level of human capital through public expenditure.
A semi‐supervised approach for building wall layout segmentation based on transformers and limited data
Authors: Xie Hao , Ma Xiao , Mei Qipei , Chui Ying Hei
Published: December 2024

In structural design, accurately extracting information from floor plan drawings of buildings is essential for building 3D models and facilitating design automation. However, deep learning models often face challenges due to their dependence on large labeled datasets, which are labor and time‐intensive to generate. And floor plan drawings often present challenges, such as overlapping elements and similar geometric shapes. This study introduces a semi‐supervised wall segmentation approach (SWS), specifically designed to perform effectively with limited labeled data. SWS combines a deep semantic feature extraction framework with a hierarchical vision transformer and multi‐scale feature aggregation to refine feature maps and maintain the spatial precision necessary for pixel‐wise segmentation. SWS incorporates consistency regularization to encourage consistent predictions across weak and strong augmentations of the same image. The proposed method improves an intersection over union by more than 4%.
Specific Transcriptional Regulation Controls Plant Organ‐Specific Infection by the Oomycete Pathogen Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Lin Long , Wang Yang , Qian Hui , Wu Jiawei , Lin Yachun , Xia Yeqiang , Dong Suomeng , Ye Wenwu , Wang Yuanchao
Published: December 2024

The organs of a plant species vary in cell structure, metabolism and defence responses. However, the mechanisms that enable a single pathogen to colonise different plant organs remain unclear. Here we compared the transcriptome of the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sojae during infection of roots versus leaves of soybeans. We found differences in the transcript levels of hundreds of pathogenicity‐related genes, particularly genes encoding carbohydrate‐active enzymes, secreted (effector) proteins, oxidoreductase‐related proteins and transporters. To identify the key regulator for root‐specific infection, we knocked out root‐specific transcription factors (TFs) and found the mutants of PsBZPc29, which encodes a member of an oomycete‐specific class of basic leucine zipper (bZIP) TFs, displayed reduced virulence on soybean roots but not on leaves. More than 60% of the root‐specific genes showed reduced expression in the mutants during root infection. The results suggest that transcriptional regulation underlies the organ‐specific infection by P. sojae, and that a bZIP TF plays a key role in root‐specific transcriptional regulation.
Burning Mouth Syndrome Underlying Factors: A Roadmap From a Network Perspective
Authors: Castaño‐Joaqui Oscar Gabriel , Jiménez Ortega Laura , Cerero Lapiedra Rocío , Domínguez Gordillo Adelaida África
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the relationship between biological, psychological, and social factors underlying Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS).

Subjects and Methods

A case (n = 40) and control (n = 42) study containing 80 variables was examined using two network models based on regularized partial correlations (n = 82).

Results

The structure of the associative pathways with the BMS was revealed. Direct associations involved Gastrointestinal Alterations (0.23), Vitamin D Deficiency (0.29), Musculoskeletal Alterations (0.29), Symptom Severity Score 2 (SSS2) (0.22), Cortisol Variation (0.10), Interpersonal Sensitivity (0.04), Hostility (0.03). Global Severity Index, Symptom Severity Score 1, Psychoticism, Obsession‐Compulsion, Depression, Anxiety, and Somatization were indirectly related. The SSS2 was the most influential on BMS accuracy.

Conclusions

Gastrointestinal alterations and vitamin D deficiency show a significant influence on BMS while cortisol mediates in multiple associative pathways between musculoskeletal alterations, gastrointestinal alterations, vitamin D deficiency, non‐restorative sleep, fatigue, and cognitive problems. In addition to anxiety and depression, psychoticism, interpersonal sensitivity, and hostility stand out as psychological factors that seem to be related to a lack of vitamin D. None of the factors studied seem to have a relevant predictive potential for BMS, except for nonspecific symptoms of central sensitization.
Systematic review on maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and offspring allergy
Authors: Venter Carina , Tan William , Pickett‐Nairne Kaci , Amara Shriya , Venter Manzi , Glueck Deborah H. , Boden Stina , Comotti Anna , Wang Laura
Published: December 2024

Allergic diseases including food allergy, atopic dermatitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis are increasing. Nutritional intake may play a role in this increase. Systematic reviews indicate that intake of specific nutrients and foods does not prevent allergic diseases. The role of the overall diet as measured by dietary patterns (Diet diversity, Dietary inflammatory index, Mediterranean diet score, Healthy eating index, Maternal diet index, ultra‐processed food dietary patterns, and others) have not been systematically reviewed. We aim to investigate the association between overall maternal dietary intake during pregnancy and offspring allergy outcomes. The following databases will be searched: PubMed, OVID Medline, Web of Science, and Embase. Studies with publication dates up to November 28, 2024, will be eligible. We will perform our last search on November 28, 2024. There will be no restrictions by geographical location but only studies published in English will be included. Risk of bias in the included studies will be assessed using the ROBINS‐I Cochrane assessment tool. Data will be discussed and narratively, and studies that present comparable data will be used in meta‐analyses with a random effects model. Data will be discussed and narratively, and studies that present comparable data will be used in meta‐analyses with a random effects model. The results of this systematic review and meta‐analysis will be published in a peer‐reviewed journal. Systematic reviews provide methodology for objective evidence synthesis. The systematic review will provide useful information regarding the role of maternal dietary patterns during pregnancy and their association with offspring allergy outcomes.
Glyphosate application affects white leaf spot (Neopseudocercosporella capsellae) development on glyphosate‐tolerant canola
Authors: Ai Yan , You Ming Pei , Yan Guijun , Barbetti Martin J.
Published: December 2024

Canola (Brassica napus) production in Australia widely uses glyphosate‐tolerant (Roundup Ready [RR]) cultivars. White leaf spot (WLS; Neopseudocercosporella capsellae) significantly threatens canola globally, but particularly in Australia. Studies were undertaken on Hyola RR 500, with moderate resistance, and Hyola RR 504, which is highly susceptible to WLS, to determine how glyphosate application at various timings before and after N. capsellae infection affects WLS development. There were significant (p < 0.05) effects for leaf disease incidence (LDI), leaf area diseased (LAD), and leaf area collapsed (LAC) for both canola cultivars, for disease development period (days post‐inoculation), and for glyphosate application time (before or after inoculation). Although applying glyphosate before or after inoculation on both cultivars significantly (p < 0.05) increased LDI, LAD and LAC area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) values, glyphosate application before inoculation exerted a significantly greater effect on these values than glyphosate application after inoculation. On both cultivars across 21 days, glyphosate application 7 days before inoculation resulted in the greatest increases for LDI, LAD and LAC AUDPC values, while glyphosate application 7 days after had the least effect. This study highlighted potential significant benefit for farmers by withholding glyphosate applications until N. capsellae infections are well established in order to minimize predisposition to WLS by glyphosate applied prior to the main N. capsellae infection period.
β‐aminobutyric acid does not induce defenses or increase Norway spruce resistance to the bluestain fungus Grosmannia penicillata
Authors: Huynh Ngan Bao , Krokene Paal , Nybakken Line , Čėsna Vytautas , Mageroy Melissa H.
Published: December 2024

Priming of Norway spruce (Picea abies) inducible defenses is a promising way to protect young trees from herbivores and pathogens. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) application is known to induce and potentially prime Norway spruce defenses but may also reduce plant growth. Therefore, we tested β‐aminobutyric acid (BABA) as an alternative priming chemical to enhance spruce resistance, using 2‐year‐old Norway spruce plants. We compared inducible defense responses, i.e. traumatic resin duct formation and accumulation of defensive metabolites, in bark and xylem tissues of BABA‐ or MeJA‐treated plants before and after wounding. We also evaluated the effect of these chemical treatments on Norway spruce resistance to the pathogenic bluestain fungus Grosmania penicilliata. BABA did not induce defense responses or pathogen resistance, it even reduced concentrations of total terpenes in the treated plants. In contrast, MeJA induced traumatic resin duct formation, accumulation of flavonoids, pathogen resistance, and did not affect plant growth. For the first time, flavan‐3‐ols (catechins) were shown to have a primed response to MeJA treatment in Norway spruce. Our results indicated that BABA is not a suitable alternative priming chemical to MeJA in Norway spruce.
Hydrogen sulfide and ethylene regulate photosynthesis, sugar metabolism, and tolerance to heat stress in the presence of sulfur in rice
Authors: Alvi Ameena Fatima , Khan Sheen , Khan Nafees A.
Published: December 2024

Heat stress impacts photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism, challenging food security. To comprehend the mechanisms of thermotolerance, we examined the role of ethylene (ET) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) with or without sulfur (S) in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Both ET and H2S promoted heat stress tolerance more conspicuously in the presence of S, restoring the balance between carbon assimilation and utilization. The enhanced photosynthesis in ET and H2S‐treated plants under heat stress was linked with increased relative expression of Rubisco subunits rbcS and rbcL and carbohydrate metabolizing, including Sucrose Synthase 2 (SuSy2) and Sucrose transport 1 (SUT1). Notably, the H2S application showed the highest increase of 2.3, 3.2, 3.0, and 2.4‐fold expression of the rbcS, rbcL, SuSy2, and SUT1, respectively, compared to the heat stress alone. The application of H2S with S more prominently increased starch content, total soluble sugar, and soluble invertase activity by 59.3%, 35.7%, and 25.9%, and also activity of soluble starch synthase and granule‐bound starch synthase by 47.2% and 32.8%, respectively, compared to heat‐stressed plants. The treatment (H2S plus S) elevated cysteine and GSH content and the activity of the antioxidant enzymes to maintain cellular redox potential under heat stress. These observed tolerance responses were less pronounced in plants treated with hypotaurine (HT; H2S scavenger) than those treated with norbornadiene (NBD; ET inhibitor), underscoring the superior role of H2S over ET in mitigating heat stress. The present study's findings explain that H2S is crucial for the ET‐mediated response in augmenting photosynthesis and heat stress tolerance in rice.
Characterizing How Peer‐to‐Peer Learning Navigates Coopetitive Tensions Within Online Community‐Based Innovation Contest Networks
Authors: Galehbakhtiari Sara , Perks Helen , McKechnie Sally
Published: December 2024

Online Community‐based Innovation Contests (OCICs) are an important form of network‐based innovation. Creativity derives from the interactions between diverse community peers, positioned across the network, who learn from each other. However, learning takes place against the backdrop of simultaneity of cooperation and competition, leading to coopetitive tensions. This research seeks to unravel how peer‐to‐peer learning occurs within this coopetitive environment. It aims to unpack coopetitive tensions and show how they are navigated by peer‐to‐peer learning mechanisms. To achieve this, an in‐depth case study of a global filmmaking OCIC is conducted, comprising three phases; informal interviews and observation; Social Network Analysis (SNA); and a structured interview program. The results identify diversity and opacity tensions derived from the opposing forces of cooperativeness and competitiveness. These tensions are navigated through two overarching learning mechanisms of assessment and concretizing. The study details several learning strategies connected to the mechanisms. A nuanced analysis shows how they are enacted at core and periphery positions, and through various modes of interaction.
Associations Between Active Commuting and Sickness Absence in Finnish Public Sector Cohort of 28 485 Employees
Authors: Kalliolahti Essi , Gluschkoff Kia , Lanki Timo , Halonen Jaana I. , Salo Paula , Oksanen Tuula , Ervasti Jenni
Published: December 2024

Active commuting can be beneficial for health. We examined whether active commuting by walking or cycling was associated with a lower risk of sickness absence in a Finnish public sector cohort of 28 485 employees. We used negative binomial regression to test associations of weekly active commuting in kilometers (no, low, moderate, and high dose) with all‐cause sickness absence. Sickness absence data from employers registers comprised the number of (1) sickness absence days, (2) short (1–9 days) and (3) long (≥ 10 days) sickness absence episodes during 12‐ and 24‐month follow‐ups. The models were adjusted for sociodemographic factors, lifestyle risk factors, and previous sickness absence. To demonstrate absolute risk, we calculated sex‐ and age‐adjusted incidence for sickness absence per 100 person years for each active commuting exposure group. The associations of cycling and walking were additionally studied in separate analyses. Compared to passive commuters (no active commuting), high dose of active commuting (mean of 61 km/week) was associated with an 8%–12% lower relative risk of sickness absence days and an 18% lower relative risk of long episodes. The absolute rate of sickness absence per 100 person‐years was up to 452 days and 10 long episodes lower in the high‐dose active commuters group. In the further analyses separating cyclists and walkers, similar reduced risks were observed only among high‐dose cyclists. Our findings suggest that regular active commuting by bicycle has potential for reducing sickness absence by reducing the risk of long sickness absence episodes.
Organizing Social Safety: An Integration of Theoretical Approaches
Authors: Savela Nina , Ellemers Naomi
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we integrate different theoretical perspectives and research strands addressing threats to social safety in the workplace. As a result of our integrative analysis, we elucidate how the team level interconnects organizational and individual level mechanisms, and how these can be engaged to connect organizational policies to well‐being and productivity of individual workers. We argue for the added value of a multi‐level approach, in which organizational, team, and individual level interventions and social safety provisions are aligned. We conclude that these different perspectives and their focal concepts complement each other and are relevant for different types of professionals. Examples of mismatches between efforts and mechanisms of different organizational actors clarify that organizing social safety successfully requires the combination of insights from theoretical approaches to align initiatives and outcomes at managerial, team, and employee levels. Integration of top‐down (policy design) and bottom‐up (effect monitoring) efforts with team‐level mechanisms will benefit social and psychological safety in the workplace.
CsCPC, an R3‐MYB transcription factor, acts as a negative regulator of citric acid accumulation in Citrus
Authors: Wang Ting‐Ting , Song Xin , Zhang Miao , Fan Yan‐Jie , Ren Jie , Duan Yao‐Yuan , Guan Shu‐ping , Luo Xin , Yang Wen‐Hui , Cao Hui‐Xiang , Wu Xiao‐Meng , Guo Wen‐Wu , Xie Kai‐Dong
Published: December 2024

The citric acid accumulation during fruit ripening determines the quality of fleshy fruits. However, the molecular mechanism underlying citric acid accumulation is not clearly understood yet in citrus due to the scarcity of paired germplasm that exhibits significant difference in organic acid accumulation. Two citrus triploid hybrids with distinct citric acid content in their mature fruits were herein identified from a previously conducted interploidy cross in our group, providing an ideal paired material for studying acid accumulation in citrus. Through a comparative transcriptome analysis of the pulps of the above two triploid hybrids, an R3‐MYB transcription factor, CAPRICE (CsCPC), was identified to be a regulator of citric acid accumulation in citrus fruits. Through transgenic experiments involving overexpression (in callus and kumquat fruits) and RNAi (in lemon leaves), we demonstrated that CsCPC suppresses citric acid accumulation by negatively regulating the expression of CsPH1 and CsPH5. Moreover, CsCPC competed with an R2R3‐MYB CsPH4 for binding to ANTHOCYANIN1 (CsAN1) and thus disturbed the activation of CsPH1 and CsPH5 that encode vacuolar P‐ATPase, which eventually led to a decrease in citric acid content. CsPH4 activated the expression of CsCPC and thus formed an activator–repressor feedback loop, which ultimately inhibited citric acid accumulation in citrus fruit. In summary, this study reveals a new regulatory mechanism of CsCPC‐mediated inhibition of citric acid accumulation in citrus fruits, which would support the improvement of citrus fruit quality.
The distribution of monolignol glucosides coincides with lignification during the formation of compression wood in Pinus thunbergii
Authors: Maeda Naoki , Aoki Dan , Fujiyasu Syunya , Matsushita Yasuyuki , Yoshida Masato , Hiraide Hideto , Mitsuda Hayato , Tobimatsu Yuki , Fukushima Kazuhiko
Published: December 2024

The distributions of monolignol glucosides (MLGs) in compression and opposite woods of Pinus thunbergii were assessed using cryo‐time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry to investigate their involvement in lignification. p‐Glucocoumaryl alcohol (PG) was identified in the region of the differentiating xylem adjacent to the cambial zone only in compression wood, whereas coniferin (CF) was similarly localized in both compression and opposite woods. Their distribution from the phloem to the xylem was evaluated by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using serial tangential sections. Variations in storage amounts of CF and PG in the stem of P. thunbergii agreed with lignification stages of the tracheid, supporting the idea that MLGs act as a storage and transportation form of lignin precursors. The imaging of monolignol (ML)‐dependent active lignification sites using fluorescence‐tagged MLs supported distinct distribution patterns of MLGs for lignification in compression and opposite woods. Methylation–thioacidolysis was applied to compression and opposite wood samples to examine the structural difference between the guaiacyl (G) and p‐hydroxyphenyl (H) units in lignin. Most of the H units in compression wood were detected as lignin end groups via thioacidolysis. PG was detected in opposite wood by HPLC; however, the H unit was not detected by thioacidolysis. The differences in ML and MLG distributions, enzyme activity, and resultant lignin structures between the G and H units suggest the possibility of individual mechanisms regulating the heterogeneous structures of G and H unit in lignin.
Platelet storage in small bags as a model of platelet function in full‐sized containers
Authors: Kelly Kathleen , Kanias Tamir , Leite Caroline , Stanley Crystal , Dumont Larry J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Evaluation of additive solutions, storage containers, new collection and storage methods, and other potential modifications is resource intensive, resulting in diversion of platelets away from blood bank inventories and significant time to complete study recruitments. Our goal was to evaluate the feasibility of a small bag for the study of platelet storage, and, by using a standardized respirometry test, separate daily metabolic capacity from observations made in the dynamic storage environment of changing pH, fuels, and end products.

Methods

Single‐donor apheresis platelets collected in 100% plasma had small volumes removed to meet secondary processing requirements. Small volumes (23 ± 1.4 mL) were placed in 50‐mL bags constructed of platelet storage material, stored 7 days, and assessed with a panel of in vitro assays. Platelet bioenergetics (oxygen consumption and acid production rates) were measured with a respirometer.

Results

The patterns of platelet pH decline, activation, and potency by thrombin generation were consistent with historical reports. Lactate production rates (54.1 ± 11.3 μmol/1012plt/h) were significantly correlated with pH decrease, increased activation, and thrombin generation potency by Day 7. Respirometry revealed a reduction of the glycolytic capacity and accumulating damage to the oxidative system for ATP production over storage.

Discussion

Small bags present a storage profile of metabolic changes and activation consistent with historical data for full bag storage. Therefore, this system has promise to provide a platform for scaling experiments of platelet storage in a manner that maximizes platelets collected in research settings and does not compromise availability for patient treatment as exercised in this study.
Immunotherapy using pullulan‐conjugated Der f 2 allergen in canine atopic dermatitis: An anti‐inflammatory agent‐sparing approach
Authors: Nagata Masahiko , Kozakai Jin , Yoshida Aya , Kameyama Kana , Oboso Hiromi , Muto Hisanori , Ogino Shoji , Tsukui Toshihiro
Published: December 2024

Background

Allergen immunotherapy is used as aetiological treatment for canine atopic dermatitis (cAD).

Objective

To assess the anti‐inflammatory agent‐sparing effect over 1 year of immunotherapy using pullulan‐conjugated recombinant Der f 2 (rDf2‐P).

Animals

Twenty‐one privately owned dogs with cAD.

Materials and Methods

Dogs with mild clinical signs after ≥4 weeks of anti‐inflammatory drug treatment received rDf2‐P immunotherapy for 1 year. A monthly medication score (MS) was calculated, and clinical signs were assessed using Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (CADESI)‐04, cAD Eczema Area and Severity for Shiba Inu and pruritus scores. Serum thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC)/C‐C Motif Chemokine Ligand‐17 (CCL17) concentrations were assessed at the initial and final doses during the 6‐week induction phase and every 3 months for 1 year thereafter in 16 cases.

Results

The mean MS decreased significantly by 43.0% (p = 0.022), 60.9% (p = 0.003), 70.0% (p = 0.0004), 58.7% (p = 0.0004) and 49.3% (p = 0.029) at 2.5, 4.5, 7.5, 10.5 and 13.5 months, respectively. Drug‐sparing effects, assessed with MS and adjusted by clinical scores were rated as excellent for 12 (57.1%) and 11 (52.4%) dogs, good for 3 (14.3%) and 1 (4.8%) dogs, fair for 0 and 3 (14.3%) dogs, and poor for 6 (28.6%) and 5 (23.8%) dogs at 4.5 and 13.5 months, respectively. The serum TARC/CCL17 concentrations were significantly lower in the samples with lower CADESI‐04 scores (<17) than in those with higher CADESI‐04 scores (>17) (p = 0.0002).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Der f 2‐P immunotherapy can lead to a rapid reduction in anti‐inflammatory drug use and serve as an effective proactive therapy for cAD.
The Influence of Negative Stereotypes in Science Fiction and Fantasy on Public Perceptions of Artificial Intelligence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bo Duan , Marof Aini Azeqa , Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab
Published: December 2024

This systematic literature review (SLR) explores the impact of negative stereotypes in science fiction and fantasy on public attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI). By analyzing 9 studies published between 2011 and 2023, this review identifies key themes related to fear, distrust, ethical concerns, and the influence of media portrayals on the acceptance and adoption of AI technologies. The findings indicate that negative portrayals in these genres significantly increase fear and anxiety towards AI, leading to heightened skepticism and ethical concerns. Moreover, these negative stereotypes hinder the acceptance of AI in various fields, particularly affecting younger demographics more profoundly. This review highlights the need for more balanced and diverse media portrayals of AI to mitigate negative attitudes and promote a more nuanced understanding of AI technologies, particularly in light of its increasing role in various sectors.
Grip force control under sudden change of friction
Authors: Willemet Laurence , Roël Felix , Abbink David , Birznieks Ingvars , Wiertlewski Michaël
Published: December 2024

A task as simple as holding a cup between your fingers generates complex motor commands to finely regulate the forces applied by muscles. These fine force adjustments ensure the stability and integrity of the object by preventing it from slipping out of grip during manipulation and by reacting to perturbations. To do so, our sensorimotor system constantly monitors tactile and proprioceptive information about the force object exerts on fingertips and the friction of the surfaces to determine the optimal grip force. While the literature describes the transient responses, humans can generate to react to perturbations in load force, it is yet to be determined if humans can also react to abrupt changes in friction while already holding an object. Only recently technology using imperceivable ultrasonic vibrations became available to modulate friction in real time to investigate this question. In this study, we used an object with an integrated friction modulation device suspended in a pulley system controlling the load. With this device, we explored the rapid adaptation of the sensorimotor system to changes in friction alone and in combination with changes in load. When load force and friction changed simultaneously, the grip force response was regulated based on the grip safety requirements. Participants increased their grip force in response to decrease in friction. However, they did not adjust their grip force when the friction increased, which is expected based on our biomechanical model of friction sensing mechanisms.

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Key points

Simple tasks like pouring water into a glass mobilize intricate interactions between fingertip sensory inputs and motor commands to account for the weight change and friction.

It has been investigated how humans react to force perturbations when holding an object, but very little is known about how frictional changes are sensed and acted upon while holding an object, for example, due to sweating or condensation.

We engineered a unique experimental object that utilizes imperceivable ultrasonic vibrations to change the frictional properties of the surface in a few milliseconds. This apparatus enabled us to study how human subjects react to change of friction when gripping or holding an object.

We showed that humans adjust the strength of their grasp when forces in the direction of gravity either increase or decrease; however, frictional change evokes adjustments only when friction decreases.
Comparison of Climate Data from NASA POWER Reanalysis and Data Measured at Surface Weather Stations for Application in Brazilian Paving Projects
Authors: Faccin Cléber , Specht Luciano Pivoto , Almeida Junior Pedro Orlando Borges de , Schuster Silvio Lisboa , Pacheco Lorenzo Chaves
Published: December 2024

For the consideration of climate in paving projects, climate data with adequate quality and availability are required. In the Brazilian context, the current practice is to use data measured at the surface meteorological stations of the National Institute of Meteorology (INMET). Another possibility is to use data from reanalyses such as NASA POWER, which has an extensive database and excellent spatial coverage. Thus, this study aims to perform statistical comparisons between NASA POWER climate data and those measured by INMET in different locations in Brazil, to understand and quantify their respective differences and support future analyses regarding the use of NASA POWER reanalysis in projects related to the paving area. For this analysis, hourly climate data of air temperature, solar radiation, wind speed, precipitation, and humidity were considered and evaluated using statistical indices. Based on the analysis of 476 locations in Brazil, in general, the findings indicated that the air temperature, humidity, and solar radiation data from the NASA POWER reanalysis revealed good agreement with the data measured by INMET. However, hourly wind speed and precipitation data from NASA POWER did not show good agreement with the data measured by INMET. The climate data from the NASA POWER reanalysis have great potential for use in future paving projects in the country, mainly in regions with few ground meteorological stations (e.g., the North region). However, it is important to validate its use through pavement performance simulations, especially due to discrepancies in hourly wind speed data.
Unravelling the Chains of Relation-Inferred Self-Efficacy in Collegiate Basketball: An Autoethnography
Authors: Huffhines Brandy , Newland Aubrey
Published: December 2024

This autoethnography highlights the complex processes collegiate athletes may experience when interacting with their coaches. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of coaching behaviors on my relation-inferred self-efficacy as a collegiate women’s basketball player using a reflective and evocative narrative autoethnography. This study investigated the effect of coaching behaviors on self-efficacy from an athlete’s point of view and uses autoethnography to convey the importance of relation-inferred self-efficacy. Based on the first author’s experiences, relation-inferred self-efficacy beliefs were influenced by coach–athlete relationships, personal interpretation of coaches’ thoughts, poor coaching behaviors, and motivational climate promoted by coaches.
Dobutamine induced multifocal myoclonus in a patient with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Mahadevappa Manjappa , Hussain Sakeer , Paneyala Shasthara , Dinesh Kumar U S
Published: December 2024

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are common in clinical practice, especially among patients with multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy. The ADRs associated with medications may be minor or life-threatening. Many available ADR assessment scales and pharmacovigilance programmes have streamlined the early diagnosis and management of ADRs. Dobutamine is a commonly used inotropic agent in patients with cardiovascular decompensation which is caused by depressed contractility secondary to organic heart disease, cardiac surgery, cardiac arrest or acute myocardial infarction. Dobutamine-associated adverse effects are mainly due to sympathetic overstimulation causing chest discomfort, palpitations, tremors, headache, shortness of breath, hypertension, nausea, vomiting and eosinophilic myocarditis. Myoclonus is a neurological side effect that may be rarely caused by dobutamine infusion, especially among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We are reporting a rare case of dobutamine-induced multifocal myoclonus in a patient with CKD during the management of decompensated heart failure.