bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gap detection ability declines with central auditory neurodegeneration following age‐related cochlear synaptopathy
Authors: Kurioka Takaomi , Mizutari Kunio
Published: September 2024

Age‐related hearing impairment (ARHI) is commonly associated with decreased auditory temporal resolution caused by auditory neurodegeneration. Age‐related deterioration in gap detection ability, resulting in poor temporal auditory processing, is often attributed to pathophysiological changes in both the peripheral and central auditory systems. This study aimed to investigate whether the gap detection ability declines in the early stages of ageing and to determine its usefulness in detecting peripheral and central auditory degeneration. The study used 1‐month‐old (1 M), 6‐month‐old (6 M) and 12‐month‐old (12 M) mice to examine changes in gap detection ability and associated auditory pathophysiology. Although hearing thresholds did not significantly differ between the groups, the amplitude of auditory brainstem response (ABR) wave I decreased significantly in an age‐dependent manner, consistent with age‐related cochlear synaptopathy. The relative ABR amplitude ratio of waves 2 and 5 to wave 1 was significantly increased in 12 M mice, indicating that the central auditory system had increased in relative neuroactivity. A significant increase in gap detection thresholds was observed in 12 M mice compared to 1 M mice. Although cochlear synaptopathy and central hyperactivity were positively correlated with gap detection thresholds, central hyperactivity strongly influenced gap detection ability. In the cochlear nucleus and auditory cortex, the inhibitory synaptic expression of GAD65 and the expression of parvalbumin were significantly decreased in 12 M mice, consistent with central hyperactivity. Evaluating gap detection performance may allow the identification of decreased auditory temporal resolution in the early stages of ARHI, which is strongly associated with auditory neurodegeneration.
A latent profile analysis of relationship satisfaction and self‐regulation among low‐income participants who attended relationship education with a partner
Authors: Carlson Ryan G. , Wheeler Naomi J. , Liu Xun , Carroll Nakita
Published: September 2024

Relationship education has shown promising effects for low‐income couples on outcomes such as promoting positive communication, improving global relationship satisfaction, parenting, and individual psychological distress. Studies also indicate that couples' baseline distress (e.g., relational and individual) moderates outcomes. Yet, few studies implemented a person‐centered approach to analyzing data for those who participate in relationship education. In a sample of 488 low‐income opposite‐gendered couples, we identified latent profile groups for men and women based on self‐reported relationship satisfaction and behavioral self‐regulation scores, thus incorporating both relational and individual factors. Results yielded a three‐class solution for men and a four‐class solution for women. We then examined group profile differences in individual psychological distress and relationship satisfaction change scores after completing the relationship education intervention (12 h of PREP's Within Our Reach). Results indicated significant differences, suggesting that group membership can predict overall improvements in both psychological and relationship distress. Thus, RE programmers and policymakers may consider flexible delivery (e.g., more or less content; more or less intense coaching) that considers overall baseline relational and/or individual functioning as opposed to a one‐size‐fits‐all method.
Adaptation to climate change and limits in food production systems: Physics, the chemistry of biology, and human behavior
Authors: Nelson Gerald C. , Cheung William W. L. , Bezner Kerr Rachel , Franke James , Meza Francisco , Oyinlola Muhammed A. , Thornton Philip , Zabel Florian
Published: September 2024

Are there limits to our ability to adapt food systems to climate change? This overview paper for the special issue highlights results of research on potential limits and responses by food system actors. Responses are shaped by the critical interactions among the physical, chemical, biological, and social impacts in food systems arising from climate change. Food grains, temperate perennials, livestock, and oceanic capture fisheries and farming are covered. Climate change impacts on the biology of plants, animals, and humans, as well as the options for societal responses are explored. The results show where and how possible adaptations will be limited.
The Dutch Citizen's Understanding and Perception of the Actors Involved in the Netherlands' COVID‐19 Pandemic Response: A Focus Group Study During the First Pandemic Wave
Authors: Kamga L. S. Kengne , Voordouw A. C. G. , De Vries M. C. , Belfroid E. , Brabers A. E. M. , De Jong J. D. , van Eck L. C. , Koopmans M. P. G. , Timen A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic was a public health emergency (PHE) of unprecedented magnitude and impact. It provided the possibility to investigate the Dutch citizens' understanding and perception of the actors involved in the Dutch pandemic response as a PHE unfolded.

Methods

Three focus groups (FGs) were held with 16 Dutch citizens in June 2020. Citizens were recruited using the Dutch Health Care Consumer Panel. During the FGs, participants were asked to fill in a table with actors they thought were involved in the management of the COVID‐19 pandemic. They also received information on actors involved in Dutch outbreak responses. Then, the actors named and omitted by the participants were discussed.

Results

An analysis of the FGs suggests that the Dutch citizens participating in the study were not fully aware of the scope of actors involved in the Dutch COVID‐19 pandemic response. Some participants would have appreciated more information on the actors involved. This would help them have an informed opinion of the actors involved in the decision‐making process, and accept non‐pharmaceutical interventions implemented. Lastly, most participants recognised that they played a role in limiting the spread of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Yet, very few spontaneously mentioned themselves as actors within the COVID‐19 pandemic response.

Conclusion

This study suggests that early in the COVID‐19 pandemic, the Dutch citizens participating in this study's FG did not have a complete understanding of the scope of actors involved in the Dutch COVID‐19 pandemic response, or the potential role of the citizen. Future research can build on these results to explore the citizen's perception of their role during PHEs of another origin, as well as other geographical and historical contexts.

Patient or Public Contribution

The public participated in the focus groups and received a non‐expert report summarising the outcomes of the focus groups.
A World Café Approach to Exploring Perspectives on Diabetes Stigma in the United Kingdom
Authors: Burton Amy Elizabeth , Owen Alison , Taylor Jennifer , Dean Sarah Elizabeth , Povey Rachel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Research has found that a high percentage of people with diabetes experience stigma, with perceptions of stigma being significantly higher among people with Type 1 diabetes compared to those with Type 2 diabetes. These experiences of diabetes stigma can lead to psychological, behavioural and medical consequences. The aim of the current study was to explore the perceptions of diabetes stigma and propose strategies for addressing this from the perspective of key stakeholders.

Methods

A mixed methods design was used, commencing with an online qualitative survey (n = 128) and followed by a World Café (n = 11), where attendees reflected on their own experiences with stigma and discussed the survey findings.

Results

The survey indicated that 75% of those with Type 1 diabetes and 51% with Type 2 had experienced diabetes stigma. The World Café identified three main areas that participants felt impacted their experiences with stigma or had the potential to help improve stigma: healthcare interactions, public awareness and media representations.

Conclusions

The findings supported previous research showing that diabetes stigma is prevalent among people with diabetes. The World Café was an excellent means of sharing knowledge and experiences among stakeholders, the findings of which will inform strategies to bring about change.

Patient or Public Contribution

World Café is a collaborative method where stakeholders contribute to the production and analysis of data through rounds of discussion and feedback.
Co‐extract of green tea and black rice: incremental effect of antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties and their freeze‐dried double emulsion encapsulated powder
Authors: Salee Nuttinee , Chaiyana Wantida , Anuchapreeda Songyot , Neimkhum Waranya , Naruenartwongsakul Srisuwan , Chaisan Worrapob , Utama‐ang Niramon
Published: September 2024

The study explored the combination effect between of green tea extract (GTE) and black rice extract (BRE) and the encapsulation process of the co‐extract. A 2:1 (w/w) ratio of GTE to BRE in citric aqueous solution at pH 6 showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.306 mg mL−1) with the strongest incremental effect (combination index = 0.547). It exhibited potent anti‐inflammatory effects, with sirtuin 1 enzyme‐stimulating activity (28.593 of fluorescent intensity) and NF‐κB protein suppression in RAW 264.7 macrophages (57.76% at 100 μg mL−1). Freeze‐dried double emulsion encapsulated powder (CEP) with the highest encapsulation efficiency (73.38%) and total polyphenol content (218.28 mg GAE g−1) was prepared using a lecithin to O phase ratio of 2:25 (w/w) and a chitosan‐carboxymethyl cellulose to W1/O emulsion phase ratio of 1:1 (w/w). Our findings suggest utilising CEP as a compound in functional food by contributing to improved health and well‐being.
Deep processing and comprehensive utilisation of edible mushroom resources
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐Hong , Yan Jing‐Kun , Qin Yuyue
Published: September 2024

Edible mushrooms have become an important global ingredient due to their rich nutrients and delicious taste. However, their high moisture content, abundant bioactive components and susceptibility to microbial contamination led to a relatively short shelf‐life. Therefore, extensive research on the active ingredients, bioactivity and preservation techniques of mushrooms is crucial for enhancing the rapid development and increasing acceptance of the mushroom industry. Furthermore, the comprehensive utilisation of by‐products from mushroom processing and the diversified development of mushroom products are important means to increase the added value of the mushroom industry. Therefore, through the aforementioned research, the sustainable and healthy development of the mushroom industry can be promoted.
Electrostatic spinning membranes of eugenol liposome‐loaded polyvinyl alcohol: preparation, characterisation and performance studies
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Xu Hang , Yang Sijia , Zhu Jun , Li Shujing , Zhang Ze
Published: September 2024

Eugenol is the main antioxidant and antimicrobial component of essential oils, however, its volatility and water solubility limit its application. In this study, eugenol liposomes (Eug‐Lip) by the ethanol injection method. The average particle size of Eug‐Lip was measured to be between 40 and 70 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.2934, a potential between −30 and −60 mV, and an encapsulation rate of 87.12%. The polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based nanofiber membrane (Eug‐Lip‐NF) was prepared by the electrostatic spinning technique. This not only improved the water solubility and stability of eugenol, but also extended its release time and preserved its biological activity. The high‐voltage electric field facilitates the retention of the antioxidant ability of the membrane, as well as the inhibition of both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). These results indicate that the combination of liposome and electrostatic spinning technology provides feasibility and promise for eugenol in food and medicine fields.
Domestic workers' organizations and participatory approaches to labour standards enforcement: The case of Jamaica
Authors: BLACK Simon , MARSH Lauren
Published: September 2024

Focusing on Latin America and the Caribbean, this article explores the role of domestic workers' organizations in labour standards enforcement. Drawing on qualitative data, we examine the case of the Jamaica Household Workers' Union in the wake of Jamaica's ratification of the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189). Findings indicate that the Union participates directly and indirectly in enforcement. While not a substitute for state‐led enforcement, the case study illustrates the potential of a worker‐centred, participatory approach to enforcement in the domestic work sector and suggests that worker voice and collective representation through organizing is key to fulfilling the promise of the Convention.
Introduction: la formalisation du travail domestique rémunéré – trajectoires actuelles et obstacles à surmonter
Authors: JAEHRLING Karen , PEREYRA Francisca , POBLETE Lorena
Published: September 2024

Depuis l'adoption par l'OIT de la convention n° 189 sur les travailleuses et travailleurs domestiques, la formalisation est au cœur des politiques publiques. Les progrès restent cependant lents: de nouvelles lois relatives au travail et à la protection sociale améliorent la couverture légale, mais elles sont trop peu appliquées, si bien que ces droits ne sont pas effectifs. Dans cette introduction, les autrices explorent les dynamiques et facteurs qui influent sur la formalisation effective, de même que les situations intermédiaires existant entre travail formel et travail informel. Elles mettent ainsi en lumière le pouvoir d'agir de différents acteurs au niveau macro, méso et micro.
Plateformes numériques et travail domestique en Italie: l'introduction d'une logique d'entreprise et ses conséquences sur la protection sociale
Authors: PAIS Ivana , MARCOLIN Arianna
Published: September 2024

Les autrices explorent l'hétérogénéité des plateformes de travail domestique à partir de deux exemples italiens, celui de Helpling, une plateforme qui met en relation l'offre et la demande, et celui de Batmaid, qui salarie directement des travailleurs domestiques. L'analyse montre que dans certains cas les plateformes numériques font entrer une logique d'entreprise dans un secteur d'où elle était absente, offrant potentiellement la possibilité d'introduire des négociations d'entreprise dans l'économie des plateformes et modèles similaires – ce que les syndicats n'ont pour l'heure pas envisagé en raison d'une non‐reconnaissance des besoins des travailleurs domestiques qui exercent leur activité via des plateformes numériques.
Approche participative de l'application des normes du travail dans le secteur du travail domestique: le cas de la Jamaïque
Authors: BLACK Simon , MARSH Lauren
Published: September 2024

Les auteurs explorent le rôle des organisations de travailleurs domestiques dans l'application des normes du travail en Amérique latine et dans les Caraïbes. À partir de données qualitatives, ils étudient le cas du syndicat des travailleurs domestiques de la Jamaïque (JHWU) après la ratification de la convention n° 189 sur les travailleuses et travailleurs domestiques, 2011, et constatent que le syndicat contribue directement et indirectement à l'application des normes. Ils en déduisent que, même si elle ne remplace pas l'intervention publique, une approche participative peut être prometteuse et que l'expression et la représentation des travailleurs sont indispensables pour que la convention tienne sa promesse.
Variaciones entre países en la protección del trabajo doméstico desde la perspectiva de los regímenes de políticas
Authors: PAUL Anju Mary
Published: September 2024

Los trabajadores domésticos son algunos de los más vulnerables y menos protegidos del mundo. Sin embargo, su protección varía de un país a otro. En este artículo se analiza desde la perspectiva de los regímenes de políticas cómo las ideas, el marco institucional y los grupos de interés determinan las diferencias en cuanto al grado de protección jurídica de los trabajadores domésticos en cada país. Se defiende la tesis de que la presencia favorable de los tres elementos es condición indispensable para instituir un sólido régimen de protección en el sector. Este modelo permite explicar los incompletos/frágiles regímenes del Pakistán, Singapur, Sudáfrica y Suecia.
Organizaciones de trabajadores domésticos y formas participativas de control del cumplimiento. El caso de Jamaica
Authors: BLACK Simon , MARSH Lauren
Published: September 2024

En este artículo se investiga la contribución de las organizaciones de trabajadores domésticos al control del cumplimiento de la legislación laboral. Se examina cualitativamente el caso del Sindicato de Trabajadores Domésticos de Jamaica tras la ratificación del Convenio sobre las trabajadoras y los trabajadores domésticos, 2011 (núm. 189) por este país. Se constata que el sindicato participa directa e indirectamente en los procesos de control. El enfoque participativo centrado en los trabajadores no sustituye a los mecanismos estatales, pero puede contribuir a la observancia en el sector y sugiere que la voz y la representación colectiva de los trabajadores son esenciales para cumplir las expectativas del convenio.
Microbe–disease associations prediction by graph regularized non‐negative matrix factorization with L2,1$$ {L}_{2,1} $$ norm regularization terms
Authors: Chen Ziwei , Zhang Liangzhe , Lu Yuxuan , Li Jingyi , Chen Hang
Published: September 2024

Microbes are involved in a wide range of biological processes and are closely associated with disease. Inferring potential disease‐associated microbes as the biomarkers or drug targets may help prevent, diagnose and treat complex human diseases. However, biological experiments are time‐consuming and expensive. In this study, we introduced a new method called iPALM‐GLMF, which modelled microbe–disease association prediction as a problem of non‐negative matrix factorization with graph dual regularization terms and norm regularization terms. The graph dual regularization terms were used to capture potential features in the microbe and disease space, and the norm regularization terms were used to ensure the sparsity of the feature matrices obtained from the non‐negative matrix factorization and to improve the interpretability. To solve the model, iPALM‐GLMF used a non‐negative double singular value decomposition to initialize the matrix factorization and adopted an inertial Proximal Alternating Linear Minimization iterative process to obtain the final matrix factorization results. As a result, iPALM‐GLMF performed better than other existing methods in leave‐one‐out cross‐validation and fivefold cross‐validation. In addition, case studies of different diseases demonstrated that iPALM‐GLMF could effectively predict potential microbial‐disease associations. iPALM‐GLMF is publicly available at https://github.com/LiangzheZhang/iPALM‐GLMF.
Impact of Polyonchobothrium magnum on health and gut microbial ecology of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus): Insights from morphological, molecular, and microbiological analyses
Authors: Fouad Alamira Marzouk , Abo‐Al‐Ela Haitham G. , Negm Eman A. , Abdelhaseib Maha , Alian Abdallah , Abdelsater Naser , Said Rashad E. M. , Anwar Fatma A. S. , Assar Doaa H. , Mohamed Sara Abdel‐Aal
Published: September 2024

Parasites pose significant challenges to aquaculture and fisheries industries. Our study focuses on the Polyonchobothrium magnum and African catfish to address a potential health issue in aquaculture, explore host–parasite interactions that can help develop effective management practices to ensure fish health and industry sustainability. P. magnum was isolated from the stomach of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) as the primary site of infection, with a prevalence of 10%. Most affected fish were heavily infected (8 out of 10). Infection was confirmed by sequencing the PCR‐targeted region of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 1 (ND1) gene, along with light and scanning electron microscopes. The parasite had an elongated scolex with deep bothria, a prominent apical disc wider than the scolex itself, and a four‐lobed appearance. The scolex contained a central rostellum divided into two semicircles, bearing 26–30 hooks, with an average of 28. The apical disc had large hooks arranged in four quadrants, with 6–8 hooks each, averaging 7 per quadrant. No neck was observed. Phylogenetic analysis of our sequence showed a 100% match with isolates from Guangzhou, China. In infected fish, the anterior kidney showed increased expression levels of nuclear factor kappa B and lysozyme, but decreased levels of in major histocompatibility complex antigen II. Plasma analysis revealed a significant drop in superoxide dismutase, a rise in interleukin‐1 beta, and lower IgM levels compared to non‐infected controls. Non‐infected fish displayed greater gut microbiota diversity, with dominant families including Moraxellaceae, Enterobacteriaceae, Fusobacteriaceae, and Caulobacteraceae, and prevalent genera such as Acinetobacter, Cetobacterium, and Brevundimonas. In contrast, infected fish exhibited very low diversity, with significantly higher proportions of Enterobacteriaceae (45.99%) and Aeromonadaceae (41.79%) compared to non‐infected fish, which had 13.76% and 3.64% respectively. Cetobacterium somerae was prevalent in non‐infected fish, while infected fish harboured Aeromonas fluvialis, Plesiomonas shigelloides, and Gallaecimonas xiamenensis. Overall, P. magnum disrupted the immune status and gut microbiota of the host, thereby impacting its health.
Reply to comment on: Hyponatremia‐associated hospital visits are not reduced by early electrolyte testing in older adults starting antidepressants
Authors: Lane Natasha E. , Bai Li , Seitz Dallas P. , Juurlink David N. , Paterson J. Michael , Stukel Therese A.
Published: September 2024

See the related comment by Akkar et al.
Telehealth availability and use among beneficiaries in Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage
Authors: Park Sungchul , Jung Hye‐Young , Yu Jiani
Published: September 2024

Background

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans must cover all telehealth services offered by Traditional Medicare (TM), but have flexibility to provide additional telehealth services. It is not known whether these flexibilities are associated with telehealth availability and use. In this study, we examined differences in telehealth availability and use between TM and MA beneficiaries.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study analyzed beneficiaries who participated in the 2021 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey. Our primary outcomes were telehealth availability and use, assessed both overall and by modality (telephone only, video only, and both). Our key independent variable was full‐year enrollment in MA versus TM. Differences in outcomes between TM and MA beneficiaries were estimated using logistic regression models that adjusted for beneficiary characteristics. The analysis of telehealth availability included all beneficiaries in the sample, while the analysis of telehealth use was limited to those offered telehealth services. In a secondary analysis, we examined differences between TM and MA beneficiaries in the availability of technology that may enable telehealth use and experience using the internet to seek information.

Results

Among 8130 Medicare beneficiaries, MA beneficiaries were 2.9 (95% CI: 0.6–5.2) percentage points more likely to have a provider who offered telehealth services than TM beneficiaries, including both telephone and video options. However, MA beneficiaries were 3.5 (−6.7, −0.4) percentage points less likely to use telehealth services than TM beneficiaries. Video‐only options were used less frequently among MA beneficiaries compared to those in TM (−2.7 [−5.1, −0.3]). Despite lower telehealth use, MA beneficiaries had comparable or higher rates of technology access and internet experience compared to TM beneficiaries.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that greater access to telehealth services among MA beneficiaries did not translate into greater telehealth use. Future research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms behind lower use of telehealth services among MA beneficiaries.
Meta‐Analysis of the Efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light and Pulsed‐Dye Laser Therapy in the Management of Rosacea
Authors: Zhai Qianyu , Cheng Shaohang , Liu Runying , Xie Jinying , Han Xiao , Yu Zhen
Published: September 2024

Objective

The primary aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to synthesize and compare the clinical efficacy of intense pulsed light (IPL) and pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) therapies for the management of rosacea.

Methods

The literatures were searched in the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases to identify relevant studies investigating the use of IPL and PDL for the treatment of rosacea. Screening of the retrieved articles and data extraction were performed as per the pre‐established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The primary outcome measures evaluated in this meta‐analysis included clearance rates, erythema scores, and pain scores.

Results

The meta‐analysis incorporated data from four studies involving a total of 141 participants. The meta‐analysis did not reveal a statistically significant difference between IPL and PDL in the rate of achieving greater than 50% clearance (RR = −0.07, 95% CI: −0.19, 0.05). However, the IPL group demonstrated a significantly higher rate of clearance exceeding 75% compared to the PDL group (RR = −0.13, 95% CI: −0.23, −0.04). The change in erythema index, a key measure of rosacea severity, was similar between the two treatment modalities (SMD = −0.15, 95% CI: −0.55, 0.26). Interestingly, the PDL group reported a notably lower VAS pain score than the IPL group (SMD = 1.54, 95% CI: 0.08, 3.00).

Conclusion

Either PDL or IPL appears to be effective modalities for the management of rosacea. IPL exhibits a slight advantage in achieving a higher rate of substantial (>75%) clearance, while PDL may be preferable for patients with lower tolerance for post‐treatment discomfort. However, the existing literature directly comparing these two laser/light‐based therapies is limited, warranting further well‐designed, large‐scale studies to establish the optimal treatment algorithm for this chronic inflammatory skin condition.
Consumption frequency of ultra‐processed foods and beverages among 6‐ to 36‐month‐olds in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Mwesigwa Catherine L. , Naidoo Sudeshni
Published: September 2024

The nutrition transition in sub‐Saharan Africa has led to increased consumption of ultra‐processed foods in infancy, especially sweet foods. This has heightened the risk for nutrition‐related non‐communicable diseases, including dental caries and overweight/obesity, and promotes poor food choices later in life. The present study used a cross‐sectional design to investigate the consumption frequency of ultra‐processed foods and beverages among urban 6‐ to 36‐month‐olds attending four selected health facilities in Kampala using a standardised questionnaire and 24‐h diet recall record. The primary outcome was the consumption of at least one ultra‐processed food or beverage (UPFB) the previous day, and frequency of UPFB consumption of the week before was the secondary outcome. Four hundred and ten caregiver–child pairs were randomly recruited, 94% of caregivers being mothers with a mean age of 30.7 (±5.3) years. Fifty‐nine per cent of mothers and 73% of fathers had attained a college education. The median age of children was 18 months and 51% were female. Most children (57%) consumed at least one UPFB the previous day. In the week before, 69% had consumed UPFB frequently (4–7 days) which was significantly positively associated with maternal education (odds ratio [OR] = 2.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–7.96, p = 0.045) and child's age ([OR = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.62–5.08, p < 0.001], [OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.88–7.20, p < 0.001]). In conclusion, the dietary habits of the surveyed Ugandan population were unhealthy, characterised by the frequent consumption of UPFB with added sugar. There is an urgent need to re‐enforce existing Ugandan food regulation guidelines and policies and to build strong nutritional education programmes to enhance health‐promoting environments in early childhood.
H218O vapour labelling reveals evidence of radial Péclet effects, but in not all leaves
Authors: Barbour Margaret M. , White Melissa A. , Liu Lulu
Published: September 2024

Contradictory evidence exists regarding the relevance of Péclet‐like gradients in leaf water isotopes, making it difficult to accurately predict variation in isotope composition.

Here, we use H218O vapour labelling to directly test whether leaf water isotopes diffuse back into the xylem to be carried forward to more distal leaf portions. Backward diffusion has been assumed, due to observations of increasing enrichment towards the tip and outer edges of some leaves. Further complicating the selection of leaf water isotope models is the observation that some, but not all, leaves demonstrate a radial Péclet effect in bulk leaf water and that the hydraulic design of leaves may influence the development of isotope gradients in leaves.

Carry‐forward of H218O vapour label was detected in the two monocot species assessed (oat and corn), but not in the two dicot species (foxglove and sunflower). Further, bulk leaf water measurements at differing transpiration rates indicated that a bulk leaf water Péclet effect was relevant for foxglove only.

We conclude that both leaf hydraulic design and relative velocities of water within transport pathways influence leaf water isotope composition, reconciling seemingly contradictory previous results regarding the relevance of Péclet effects to leaf water isotopes.
Homoeologous crossovers are distally biased and underlie genomic instability in first‐generation neo‐allopolyploid Arabidopsis suecica
Authors: Nibau Candida , Evans Aled , King Holly , Phillips Dylan Wyn , Lloyd Andrew
Published: September 2024

First‐generation polyploids often suffer from more meiotic errors and lower fertility than established wild polyploid populations. One such example is the allopolyploid model species Arabidopsis suecica which originated c. 16 000 generations ago.

We present here a comparison of meiosis and its outcomes in naturally evolved and first‐generation ‘synthetic’ A. suecica using a combination of cytological and genomic approaches.

We show that while meiosis in natural lines is largely diploid‐like, synthetic lines have high levels of meiotic errors including incomplete synapsis and nonhomologous crossover formation. Whole‐genome re‐sequencing of progeny revealed 20‐fold higher levels of homoeologous exchange and eightfold higher aneuploidy originating from synthetic parents. Homoeologous exchanges showed a strong distal bias and occurred predominantly in genes, regularly generating novel protein variants. We also observed that homoeologous exchanges can generate megabase scale INDELs when occurring in regions of inverted synteny. Finally, we observed evidence of sex‐specific differences in adaptation to polyploidy with higher success in reciprocal crosses to natural lines when synthetic plants were used as the female parent.

Our results directly link cytological phenotypes in A. suecica with their genomic outcomes, demonstrating that homoeologous crossovers underlie genomic instability in neo‐allopolyploids and are more distally biased than homologous crossovers.
GLABRA2 transcription factor integrates arsenic tolerance with epidermal cell fate determination
Authors: Navarro Micaela Andrea , Navarro Cristina , Hernández Luis Eduardo , Garnica María , Franco‐Zorrilla José Manuel , Burko Yogev , González‐Serrano Sara , García‐Mina José M. , Pruneda‐Paz José , Chory Joanne , Leyva Antonio
Published: September 2024

Arsenic poses a global threat to living organisms, compromising crop security and yield. Limited understanding of the transcriptional network integrating arsenic‐tolerance mechanisms with plant developmental responses hinders the development of strategies against this toxic metalloid.

Here, we conducted a high‐throughput yeast one‐hybrid assay using as baits the promoter region from the arsenic‐inducible genes ARQ1 and ASK18 from Arabidopsis thaliana, coupled with a transcriptomic analysis, to uncover novel transcriptional regulators of the arsenic response.

We identified the GLABRA2 (GL2) transcription factor as a novel regulator of arsenic tolerance, revealing a wider regulatory role beyond its established function as a repressor of root hair formation. Furthermore, we found that ANTHOCYANINLESS2 (ANL2), a GL2 subfamily member, acts redundantly with this transcription factor in the regulation of arsenic signaling. Both transcription factors act as repressors of arsenic response. gl2 and anl2 mutants exhibit enhanced tolerance and reduced arsenic accumulation. Transcriptional analysis in the gl2 mutant unveils potential regulators of arsenic tolerance.

These findings highlight GL2 and ANL2 as novel integrators of the arsenic response with developmental outcomes, offering insights for developing safer crops with reduced arsenic content and increased tolerance to this hazardous metalloid.
Genetic and epigenetic reprogramming in response to internal and external cues by induced transposon mobilization in Moso bamboo
Authors: Zou Long‐Hai , Zhu Bailiang , Chen Yaxin , Lu Yaping , Ramkrishnan Muthusamy , Xu Chao , Zhou Xiaohong , Ding Yiqian , Cho Jungnam , Zhou Mingbing
Published: September 2024

Long terminal repeat retroelements (LTR‐REs) have profound effects on DNA methylation and gene regulation. Despite the vast abundance of LTR‐REs in the genome of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), an industrial crop in underdeveloped countries, their precise implication of the LTR‐RE mobility in stress response and development remains unknown.

We investigated the RNA and DNA products of LTR‐REs in Moso bamboo under various developmental stages and stressful conditions. Surprisingly, our analyses identified thousands of active LTR‐REs, particularly those located near genes involved in stress response and developmental regulation. These genes adjacent to active LTR‐REs exhibited an increased expression under stress and are associated with reduced DNA methylation that is likely affected by the induced LTR‐REs.

Moreover, the analyses of simultaneous mapping of insertions and DNA methylation showed that the LTR‐REs effectively alter the epigenetic status of the genomic regions where they inserted, and concomitantly their transcriptional competence which might impact the stress resilience and growth of the host.

Our work unveils the unusually strong LTR‐RE mobility in Moso bamboo and its close association with (epi)genetic changes, which supports the co‐evolution of the parasitic DNAs and host genome in attaining stress tolerance and developmental robustness.
Risk factors and incidence of oral tumors: Findings from a longitudinal population‐based study
Authors: Kim Young‐Taek , Kang Min‐Jin , Lee Bo‐Ah , Kang Sang‐Hoon , Kim Reuben H.
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study investigated risk factors contributed to benign and malignant oral tumors using longitudinal cohort big data.

Materials and Methods

We included individuals aged ≥40 years who participated in the National Health Examination in South Korea between 2003 and 2004. National Health Insurance claims data after 16 years were used to determine the incidence of oral tumors and the related risk factors. Hazard ratios were calculated using the Cox proportional hazard regression.

Results

A total of 5,992,671 participants were included. The incidence of oral cancer was significantly higher in men and increased with age, whereas that of benign tumors was unaffected by sex and decreased with age. Periodontal disease was associated with the incidence of oral cancer but not benign tumors. Soft tissue diseases were associated with both benign and malignant tumors. Various systemic diseases influence the development of oral tumors. Light alcohol consumption reduced the incidence of oral tumors, whereas heavy alcohol consumption increased the incidence of malignant tumors only. Smoking increased the incidence of benign but not malignant tumors.

Conclusion

Recognized risk factors such as sex, age, comorbidities, and dental diseases were associated with oral tumors. Alcohol consumption and smoking were not significantly associated with malignant tumors.
The Respiratory Burst Oxidase Homologue OsRBOHE is crucial for root hair formation, drought resistance and tillering in rice
Authors: Zhao Xing‐Yu , Wang Han‐Qing , Shi Wen , Zhang Wen‐Wen , Zhao Fang‐Jie
Published: September 2024

Respiratory Burst Oxidase Homologues (RBOHs) are involved in plant growth, development, and stress adaptation. How OsRBOHs affect root hair formation and consequently nutrient acquisition and drought resistance in rice is not well understood. We knocked out six OsRBOH genes in rice that were expressed in roots and identified OsRBOHE as the only one affecting root hair formation. OsRBOHE was strongly expressed in the root epidermis, root hairs and tiller buds. OsRBOHE is localised at the plasma membrane. Knockout of OsRBOHE decreased reactive oxygen species generation in the root hairs and tiller buds, downregulated genes involved in cell wall biogenesis, and decreased root hair length and tillering by 90% and 30%, respectively. Knockout of OsRBOHE decreased phosphorus acquisition only in low available P soil under aerobic conditions, but not in high P soil or under flooded conditions when P was likely not limited by diffusion. Knockout of OsRBOHE markedly decreased drought resistance of rice plants through the effect on root hair formation and the associated rhizosheath. Taken together, OsRBOHE is crucial for root hair formation and tillering and consequently on drought resistance in rice. The contribution of root hairs to P acquisition in rice is limited to aerobic soil.
Effectiveness of microneedle fractional radiofrequency combined with transcutaneous delivery of botulinum toxin in the management of post‐acne scars
Authors: Bai Limin , Xu Gang , Ge Hongmei , Li Pingsong , Han Qiwen , Hou Tuanjie , Lu Ke
Published: September 2024

Background

Post‐acne scars are a common sequela of acne, especially prevalent among young people. Delayed treatment not only affects self‐perception of beauty but also affects the mental health of patients.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the clinical efficacy of microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) combined with botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) in managing post‐acne scars.

Methods

This retrospective study involved 63 adult patients with post‐acne scars, divided into two groups: group 1 (n = 30) and group 2 (n = 33). Group 1 received treatment with MFR combined with transcutaneous delivery of BoNT/A, whereas group 2 received treatment with MFR alone. The study observed the clinical outcomes in both groups.

Results

Based on experimental analysis, the combination of MFR with transcutaneous delivery of BoNT/A demonstrated superior clinical efficacy compared with group 2. There were no significant differences in baseline data or treatment‐related pain and adverse reactions between the two groups. However, group 1 exhibited a higher effectiveness rate, lower ECCA score after treatment, higher satisfaction levels, and statistically significant differences compared to group 2.

Conclusion

MFR combined with transcutaneous delivery of BoNT/A represents an effective and safe alternative for treating acne scars with minimal side effects and complications.

Summary Statement

Post‐acne scars are a common sequela of acne and combination therapy proves beneficial. Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) combined with transcutaneous delivery of BoNT/A can be considered an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of acne scars with minimal side effects and complications. It works together through microneedles, radiofrequency, and botulinum toxin. MFR combined with transcutaneous delivery of BoNT/A is based on the direct action of MFR on acne scars and the use of microneedle to create a transient skin microchannel, facilitating BoNT/A penetration into the skin.
Auriculotemporal neuralgia overlapped with chronic orofacial myofascial pain: A case report of a challenging diagnosis
Authors: da Fonte Tatiana Prosini , Herreira‐Ferreira Matheus , Freitas Adriana Coelho da Silva , Bonjardim Leonardo Rigoldi , Stuginski‐Barbosa Juliana , Conti Paulo César Rodrigues
Published: September 2024

Aim

Auriculotemporal neuralgia (AN) is a rare condition characterized by severe, stabbing, unilateral pain inadequately described in the literature. Often coexisting with other conditions sharing the same innervation, and this overlap complicates clinical interpretation, leading to diagnostic errors and inappropriate therapeutic choices. The absence of AN in headache and facial pain diagnostic criteria hampers access to crucial information for diagnostic reasoning.Thus, we aimed to report a case of AN overlapped with another orofacial pain condition.

Method and Result

We present a case of overlap between chronic orofacial myofascial pain (MP) and AN, where conservative MP treatment did not provide the patient with complete pain relief. After diagnosing AN, a single anesthetic block induced complete pain remission over a 2‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

These findings support reintroducing AN into diagnostic criteria, aiding clinicians in diagnostic reasoning, and preventing unnecessary interventions.
Excess Healthcare Costs and Resource Utilisation of Lyme Borreliosis in Germany: A Propensity Score–Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Brestrich Gordon , Diesing Joanna , Kossack Nils , Stark James H. , Pilz Andreas , Yu Holly , Suess Jochen
Published: September 2024

Aim

Lyme borreliosis (LB) is the most common tick‐borne disease in Germany; however, data on the economic burden of LB are limited. In this study, we aim to report healthcare costs, healthcare resource utilisation (HCRU) and diagnostic consumption associated with LB by clinical manifestation.

Method

Using specific case definitions, patients with localised disease (erythema migrans [EM]) or disseminated disease (Lyme arthritis [LA], Lyme neuroborreliosis [LNB] and other rarer manifestations [OTH]) were identified from a claims database in 2016 and followed up for 3 years (2016–2019). After propensity score matching, excess costs and HCRU were calculated as the differences between each LB cohort and the matched control cohort.

Results

On a per‐patient basis, the excess all‐cause healthcare cost was €130 for EM during Quarter 1 of Year 1, and €1539 for LA, €3248 for LNB and €4137 for OTH during Year 1. Only for OTH, additional €1860 was observed in Year 2. No increase in costs was observed in Year 3. When extrapolated to all German patients with statutory health insurance, LB was associated with €64.5 million in excess costs. Although disseminated manifestations only accounted for 7.8% of all LB cases, they were responsible for 66% of overall costs. In addition, LB patients consumed healthcare resources of 1.4 million excess outpatient visits, 13,000 excess hospitalisations, 96,000 ELISAs and 65,000 Western blots.

Conclusion

This study shows the substantial economic burden of LB to the German healthcare system.
Box Jenkins ARMA Model for Forecasting Bangladesh's Remittance Inflow
Authors: Hasan Sabiha Binta , Akhter Roksana , Bhowmik Dipti , Shaon Shakil Mahmood , Islam Md. Ariful
Published: September 2024

This study uses Eviews software in order to determine the best Box-Jenkins ARMA model for forecasting the growth rate of remittances in Bangladesh by utilizing time series data from the year 1980 to 2022. In our study, we used the Augmented Dickey-Fuller Test (ADF Test) to check the stationarity of the time series data. This test shows that data is stationary at level 0, i.e., Remittance (0). By performing several selection criteria for the lowest SIGMASQ and the lowest value of AIC and BIC, we obtain ARMA (1, 1), which is the best model for forecasting remittances in Bangladesh. Diagnostic tests additionally demonstrate the stability and acceptability of the parsimonious model that has been given for remittance prediction in Bangladesh. The study's findings reportedly demonstrate that Bangladesh's remittance inflows are declining. The article makes the case that, in order to increase remittance inflows into Bangladesh, the country's emigration policy needs to be strengthened.
Optimal resistor networks
Authors: Johnson J. Robert , Walters Mark
Published: September 2024

Given a graph on vertices with edges, each of unit resistance, how small can the average resistance between pairs of vertices be? There are two very plausible extremal constructions — graphs like a star, and graphs which are close to regular — with the transition between them occurring when the average degree is 3. However, in this paper, we show that there are significantly better constructions for a range of average degree including average degree near 3. A key idea is to link this question to a analogous question about rooted graphs — namely ‘which rooted graph minimises the average resistance to the root?’. The rooted case is much simpler to analyse that the unrooted, and the one of the main results of this paper is that the two cases are asymptotically equivalent.
Evaluation of an Inverse Method for Quantifying Spatially Variable Mechanics
Authors: Pearce Daniel P. , Witzenburg Colleen M.
Published: September 2024

Soft biological tissues often function as highly deformable membranes in vivo and exhibit impressive mechanical behavior effectively characterized by planar biaxial testing. The Generalized Anisotropic Inverse Mechanics (GAIM) method links full-field deformations and boundary forces from mechanical testing to quantify material properties of soft, anisotropic, heterogeneous tissues. In this study, we introduced an orthotropic constraint to GAIM to improve the quality and physical significance of its mechanical characterizations. We evaluated the updated GAIM method using simulated and experimental biaxial testing datasets obtained from soft tissue analogs (PDMS and TissueMend) with well-defined mechanical properties. GAIM produced stiffnesses (first Kelvin moduli, K1) that agreed well with previously published Young's moduli of PDMS samples. It also matched the stiffness moduli determined via uniaxial testing for TissueMend, a collagen-rich patch intended for tendon repair. We then conducted the first biaxial testing of TissueMend and confirmed that the sample was mechanically anisotropic via a relative anisotropy metric produced by GAIM. Next, we demonstrated the benefits of full-field laser micrometry in distinguishing between spatial variations in thickness and stiffness. Finally, we conducted an analysis to verify that results were independent of partitioning scheme. The success of the newly implemented constraints on GAIM suggests notable potential for applying this tool to soft tissues, particularly following the onset of pathologies that induce mechanical and structural heterogeneities.
Review of Blood and Fluid Warming Methods
Authors: Foust Emine , Dubey Rakesh , Homan Drew , Emerick Ludvig , Riddle Andrea , Vesy Keira
Published: September 2024

Warming up blood and intravenous (IV) fluids is crucial to saving lives under certain circumstances as it may prevent hypothermia during the transfusion or infusion process. Several blood and IV fluids warming methods have been developed and studied over the past few decades. Such warming methods range from devices that use electrical energy (external or internal, i.e., using battery packs) to technologies that use chemical energy to generate heat. Additionally, improvised warming methods such as exposure to body heat are often used in lieu of electrical and nonelectrical warmers, especially in harsh and demanding environments such as in combat. The performance and efficacy of the various warming methods currently available vary greatly and a one-size-fits-all solution appears to be nonexistent. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the performance studies conducted on blood and IV fluids warming methods over the past few decades.