bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic variants linked to the phenotypic outcome of invasive disease and carriage of Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Eriksson Lorraine , Johannesen Thor Bech , Stenmark Bianca , Jacobsson Susanne , Säll Olof , Hedberg Sara Thulin , Fredlund Hans , Stegger Marc , Mölling Paula
Published: October 2023

Neisseria meningitidis

can be a human commensal in the upper respiratory tract but is also capable of causing invasive diseases such as meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia. No specific genetic markers have been detected to distinguish carriage from disease isolates. The aim here was to find genetic traits that could be linked to phenotypic outcomes associated with carriage versus invasive

N. meningitidis

disease through a bacterial genome-wide association study (GWAS). In this study, invasive

N. meningitidis

isolates collected in Sweden (n=103) and carriage isolates collected at Örebro University, Sweden (n=213) 2018–2019 were analysed. The GWAS analysis, treeWAS, was applied to single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes and k-mers. One gene and one non-synonymous SNP were associated with invasive disease and seven genes and one non-synonymous SNP were associated with carriage isolates. The gene associated with invasive disease encodes a phage transposase (NEIS1048), and the associated invasive SNP glmU S373C encodes the enzyme N-acetylglucosamine 1-phosphate (GlcNAC 1-P) uridyltransferase. Of the genes associated with carriage isolates, a gene variant of porB encoding PorB class 3, the genes pilE/pilS and tspB have known functions. The SNP associated with carriage was fkbp D33N, encoding a FK506-binding protein (FKBP). K-mers from PilS, tbpB and tspB were found to be associated with carriage, while k-mers from mtrD and tbpA were associated with invasiveness. In the genes fkbp, glmU, PilC and pilE, k-mers were found that were associated with both carriage and invasive isolates, indicating that specific variations within these genes could play a role in invasiveness. The data presented here highlight genetic traits that are significantly associated with invasive or carriage

N. meningitidis

across the species population. These traits could prove essential to our understanding of the pathogenicity of

N. meningitidis

and could help to identify future vaccine targets.
Large-Scale Whole-Exome Sequencing Association Study Implicates Genetic Effects on Viral Oncogenesis and Tumor Microenvironment in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zeng Yanni , Luo Chun-Ling , Lin Guo-Wang , Li Fugui , Bai Xiaomeng , Ko Josephine Mun-Yee , Liu Yang , He Shuai , Jiang Jia-Xin , Yan Wen-Xin , Wen ONG Enya Hui , Li Zheng , Zhou Ya-Qing , Zhou Yun-He , Xu An-Yi , Liu Shu-Qiang , Guo Yun-Miao , Chen Jie-Rong , Cheng Xi-Xi , Cao Yu-Lu , Yu Xia , Wu Biaohua , Wei Pan-Pan , Ruan Zhao-Hui , Chen Qiu-Yan , Tang Lin-Quan , McKay James D. , Jia Wei-Hua , Mai Hai-Qiang , Liu Jian-Jun , Lin Dong-Xin , Khor Chiea Chuen , CHUA Melvin Lee Kiang , Ji Mingfang , Lung Maria Li , Zeng Yi-Xin , Bei Jin-Xin
Published: October 2023

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) poses a substantial clinical challenge with limited understanding of its genetic underpinnings. Here we conduct the largest-scale whole-exome sequencing association study of NPC to date, involving 6,969 NPC cases and 7,100 controls and revealing three novel germline genetic variants linked to NPC susceptibility: a common variant rs2276868 inRPL14, a rare variant rs5361 inSELE, and a common variant rs1050462 inHLA-B. Through a multiomics approach, which integrates both bulk (n=206) and single-cell RNA-sequencing (n=56) data along with experimental validations, we demonstrate that theRPL14variant modulates Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) life cycle and NPC pathogenesis. Additionally, we show that theSELEvariant plays a role in modifying endothelial cell function, thus promoting NPC progression. Our study also underscores the critical impact of rare genetic variants on NPC heritability. We introduce a refined composite polygenic risk score (rcPRS) that outperforms existing models in predicting NPC risk. Notably, our findings reveal that the polygenic risk for NPC is mediated by EBV infection status. Overall, our study provides crucial insights into the intricate genetic architecture of NPC. It highlights the critical interplay between genetic variations and essential elements of the tumor microenvironment, such as EBV and endothelial cells, in predisposing to NPC. This work opens new avenues for personalized risk assessments, early diagnosis, and targeted therapeutic strategies for NPC.
Bioactivity of Areca catechu and Azadirachta indica seed oil against Bulinus sp, an intermediate host of Schistosoma haematobium
Authors: Tofel Katamssadan Haman , Awafor Gillian , Ebanga Joan Echi Eyong , Ntonifor Ngum Helen
Published: October 2023

Background

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by freshwater snail with infectedSchistosomaparasites. The disease is endemic in many parts of Asia, Africa, and South America affecting people who are unable to avoid contact with water, either because of their profession or because of lack of reliable source of safe water for drinking, washing and bathing.

Methods

Seed oil extract ofAzadirachta indicaand the aqueous and ethanol extracts ofAreca catechuwere tested on freshwater snailsBulinussp. Bioassays were performed on adults and eggs of snails at varying concentrations (50, 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600mg/L for the extracts ofA. catechuand 1, 2.5, 5, 7 and 10mL/L forA. indicaextract).

Results

The result revealed that mortality increased with ascending concentration. There was significant difference in the molluscicidal activities of the three extracts (p< 0.05). Among the tested the plant extracts,A. indicaseed oil showed the highest molluscicidal activity (100%) from 7 mL/L. Meanwhile, the lowest molluscicidal activity (2.5%) was found in theA. catechuaqueous extract. It was also observed that the potency of the extracts to inhibit egg hatching increases as the concentrations increased.

Conclusion

Azadirachta indicaseed oil and the ethanolic extract ofA. cathetucould be considered as a veritable means of controlling schistosomiasis vector. Also, in endemic areas where communities are likely to accept the use of local plants, the studied plants stand as good candidates to replace the conventional medicines which are expensive.

Synopsis
Sequencing, de novo assembly ofLudwigiaplastomes, and comparative analysis within the Onagraceae family
Authors: Barloy-Hubler F. , Le Gac A.-L. , Boury C. , Guichoux E. , Barloy D.
Published: October 2023

The Onagraceae family, which belongs to the order Myrtales, consists of approximately 657 species and 17 genera. This family includes the genusLudwigiaL., which is comprised of 82 species. In this study, we focused on the two aquatic invasive speciesLudwigia grandiflorasubsp.hexapetala(Lgh) andLudwigia peploidessubspmontevidensis(Lpm) largely distributed in aquatic environments in North America and in Europe. Both species have been found to degrade major watersheds leading ecological and economical damages. Genomic resources for Onagraceae are limited, with onlyLudwigia octovalvis(Lo) plastid genome available for the genusLudwigiaL. at the time of our study. This scarcity constrains phylogenetic, population genetics, and genomic studies. To brush up genomic ressources, new complete plastid genomes ofLudwigia grandiflorasubps. hexapetala(Lgh) andLudwigia peploidessubsp.montevidensis(Lpm) were generated using a combination of MiSeq (Illumina) and GridION (Oxford Nanopore) sequencing technologies. These plastomes were then compared to the publishedLudwigia octovalvis(Lo) plastid genome, which was re-annotated by the authors. We initially sequenced and assembled the chloroplast (cp) genomes ofLpmandLghusing a hybrid strategy combining short and long reads sequences. We observed the existence of twoLghhaplotypes and two potentialLpmhaplotypes.Lgh,Lpm,andLoplastomes were similar in terms of genome size (around 159 Kb), gene number, structure, and inverted repeat (IR) boundaries, comparable to other species in the Myrtales order. A total of 45 to 65 SSRs (simple sequence repeats), were detected, depending on the species, with the majority consisting solely of A and T, which is common among angiosperms. Four chloroplast genes (matK,accD,ycf2andccsA)were found under positive selection pressure, which is commonly associated with plant development, and especially in aquatic plants such asLgh,andLpm.Our hybrid sequencing approach revealed the presence of twoLghplastome haplotypes which will help to advance phylogenetic and evolutionary studies, not only specifically forLudwigia, but also the Onagraceae family and Myrtales order. To enhance the robustness of our findings, a larger dataset of chloroplast genomes would be beneficial.
FOXP1 regulates the development of excitatory synaptic inputs onto striatal neurons and induces phenotypic reversal with reinstatement
Authors: Khandelwal Nitin , Kulkarni Ashwinikumar , Ahmed Newaz I. , Harper Mathew , Konopka Genevieve , Gibson Jay
Published: October 2023

Long-range glutamatergic inputs from the cortex and thalamus are critical for motor and cognitive processing in the striatum. Transcription factors that orchestrate the development of these inputs are largely unknown. We investigated the role of a transcription factor and high-risk autism-associated gene, FOXP1, in the development of glutamatergic inputs onto spiny projection neurons (SPNs) in the striatum. We find that FOXP1 robustly drives the strengthening and maturation of glutamatergic input onto dopamine receptor 2-expressing SPNs (D2 SPNs) but has a comparatively milder effect on D1 SPNs. This process is cell-autonomous and is likely mediated through postnatal FOXP1 function at the postsynapse. We identified postsynaptic FOXP1-regulated transcripts as potential candidates for mediating these effects. Postnatal reinstatement of FOXP1 rescues electrophysiological deficits, reverses gene expression alterations resulting from embryonic deletion, and mitigates behavioral phenotypes. These results provide support for a possible therapeutic approach for individuals with FOXP1 syndrome.
Crystal structure of 2-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium 3,5-dicarboxybenzoate
Authors: Baletska Sofiia , Techert Simone , Velazquez-Garcia Jose de Jesus
Published: October 2023

The structure of the title salt, C4H7N2
+·C9H5O6
− (1), is reported. The compound is built from a protonated 2-methylimidazole and a singly deprotonated trimesic acid. Detailed analysis of bond distances and angles for both ions reveals subtle differences compared with their neutral molecule counterpart. Analysis of the crystal packing in compound 1 reveals the formation of undulating chains by the ions through hydrogen bonding. The chains stack along the b axis through π–π interactions and interconnect with other chains in an out-of-phase arrangement along the ac plane through further hydrogen-bonding interactions.
Indore: the cleanliness turnaround
Authors: Rajpurohit Niranjan , Gupta Parul
Published: October 2023

Learning outcomes

After completion of this case study, the students will be able to comprehend the importance of communication in managing change, examine the role of processes and systems in implementing change management initiatives at a large scale, assess the effectiveness of various strategies in mitigating resistance to change and recognise optimal strategies for communication processes and messages with respect to different audience and contexts.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study discusses decisions and strategies that led to Indore (a city in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India) becoming India’s cleanest city for the sixth time in a row. The case explores if the various strategies used by the commissioner of Indore Municipal Corporation would continue to succeed in mitigating resistance to change from the citizens of Indore or if the change management strategies needed to be revised. Amidst intensely rising competition from other cities, especially Surat (a city in the state of Gujarat, India), the case delves into the commissioner’s efforts to defend Indore’s claim of being India’s cleanest city for the sixth consecutive time.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for use in executive modules and management development programs. It can be used for the following courses: ■ In change management course, this case study can cover critical aspects of strategies to mitigate resistance to change and bring about lasting behavioural changes in followers.■ In communication courses, this case study can cover key aspects of communicating the change vision of a leader to a large audience.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 7: Management science
The View from the Top: Visual Intrusion as Nuisance in Fearn v Tate Gallery
Authors: Hariharan Jeevan
Published: October 2023

In Fearn v Board of Trustees of the Tate Gallery the UK Supreme Court unanimously held that visual intrusions are in principle actionable under the tort of private nuisance. On the facts, a narrow 3:2 majority found that the Tate Modern was liable for the operation of its viewing gallery where the public could see into the claimants’ flats. This note argues that the court's landmark determination on the scope of nuisance is a welcome one insofar as it decentres physical interference and aligns the operation of the tort with its normative underpinnings. More dubious is the majority's emphasis on the ‘common and ordinary use’ of land, an uncertain concept which is likely to generate difficulties in future cases. Finally, the note considers some of the broader implications of Fearn, reflecting on the public reaction to the decision and considering what the case means for privacy protection in particular.
Advanced interactional characterization of the inhibitory effect of anthocyanin extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. on apple polyphenol oxidase
Authors: (Boldea) Lavinia Stan , Aprodu Iuliana , Enachi Elena , Dumitrașcu Loredana , Păcularu‐Burada Bogdan , Chițescu Carmen , Râpeanu Gabriela , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: October 2023

In this study, a comprehensive approach to advance the inhibitory effect of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract on apple polyphenol oxidase (PPO) was performed. PPO was extracted, purified, and characterized for optimal activity, whereas response surface methodology generated a quadratic polynomial model to fit the experimental results for hibiscus extraction. The optimum conditions allowed to predict a maximum recovery of anthocyanins (256.11 mg delphinidin‐3‐O‐glucoside/g), with a validated value of 272.87 mg delphinidin‐3‐O‐glucoside/g dry weight (DW). The chromatographic methods highlighted the presence of gallic acid (36,812.90 µg/g DW extract), myricetin (141,933.84 µg/g DW extract), caffeic acid (101,394.07 µg/g DW extract), sinapic acid (1157.46 µg/g DW extract), kaempferol (2136.76 µg/g DW extract), and delphinidin 3‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside (226,367.08 µg/g DW extract). The inactivation of PPO followed a first‐order kinetic model. A temperature‐mediated flexible fit between PPO and anthocyanins was suggested, whereas the molecular docking tests indicated that PPO is a good receptor for cafestol, gallic acid, and catechin, involving hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions.

Practical Application

It is well known that enzymatic browning is one of the most important challenges in the industrial minimal processing of selected fruit and vegetable products. Novel inhibitors for polyphenol oxidase are proposed in this study by using an anthocyanin‐enriched extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Based on our results, combining the chemical effect of phytochemicals from hibiscus extract with different functional groups with minimal heating could be an interesting approach for the development of a new strategy to inhibit apple polyphenol oxidase.
Functions of cilia in cardiac development and disease
Authors: Shaikh Qureshi Wasay Mohiuddin , Hentges Kathryn E.
Published: October 2023

Errors in embryonic cardiac development are a leading cause of congenital heart defects (CHDs), including morphological abnormalities of the heart that are often detected after birth. In the past few decades, an emerging role for cilia in the pathogenesis of CHD has been identified, but this topic still largely remains an unexplored area. Mouse forward genetic screens and whole exome sequencing analysis of CHD patients have identified enrichment forde novomutations in ciliary genes or non‐ciliary genes, which regulate cilia‐related pathways, linking cilia function to aberrant cardiac development. Key events in cardiac morphogenesis, including left–right asymmetric development of the heart, are dependent upon cilia function. Cilia dysfunction during left–right axis formation contributes to CHD as evidenced by the substantial proportion of heterotaxy patients displaying complex CHD. Cilia‐transduced signaling also regulates later events during heart development such as cardiac valve formation, outflow tract septation, ventricle development, and atrioventricular septa formation. In this review, we summarize the role of motile and non‐motile (primary cilia) in cardiac asymmetry establishment and later events during heart development.
Apparent diffusion coefficient values can predict neuromotor outcome in term neonates with hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy
Authors: Hayakawa Katsumi , Tanda Koichi , Nishimoto Masakazu , Nishimura Akira , Kinoshita Daisuke , Sano Yuko
Published: October 2023

Aim

To determine the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in brain structures during the first 2 weeks of life and its relation with neurological outcome for hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) in term neonates.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 56 term‐born neonates. The ADC values were measured for 11 brain regions. The clinical outcomes at least 2 years of age were defined as normal outcome, mild disability and severe disability. The area under curves (AUCs) by ROC analysis were performed to predict the neurodevelopmental outcomes. The clinical outcomes were compared between favourable outcome and adverse outcome and also between normal outcome and unfavourable outcome.

Results

Thirty‐four patients were judged as normal outcome, 10 as mild disability and 12 as severe disability. When the clinical outcomes were compared between favourable outcome and adverse outcome, the AUC on the 1st week was highest value at the thalamus. When the clinical outcomes were compared between normal outcome and unfavourable outcome, the AUC on the 1st week was highest at the thalamus.

Conclusion

The ADC values in the thalamus in the 1st week can predict the neurological outcome. The ADC values in centrum semiovale on the 2nd week can be used to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes.
The effectiveness of medical nurses in treating children with silver diamine fluoride in a school‐based caries prevention program
Authors: Ruff Ryan Richard , Godín Tamarinda Barry , Niederman Richard
Published: October 2023

Background

The sustainability of school‐based oral health programs depends on the utilization of effective, efficient treatments and the availability of a trained clinical workforce. The objective of this study was to determine whether registered nurses are comparable to dental hygienists in the application and effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and fluoride varnish (FV) for the prevention of dental caries.

Methods

CariedAway was a school‐based study of SDF and FV versus dental sealants and atraumatic restorations. Within the SDF + FV arm, participants were treated by either a licensed dental hygienist or a registered nurse, both under the supervision of a paediatric dentist. Although initial treatment assignment in CariedAway was randomized, assignment to provider was not. The proportion of children who remained caries free after 2 years was assessed for non‐inferiority using two‐group proportion tests, adjusting for the clustering effect of schools.

Results

A total of 417 children with no untreated caries at baseline were analysed including 298 treated by hygienists and 119 by nurses. The proportion of children who remained caries free after 2 years was 0.81 and 0.80 for those treated by hygienists and nurses, respectively, for a difference of 0.01 (95% CI = −0.07, 0.098) and within the pre‐determined non‐inferiority margin.

Conclusions

Nurses may be effective in treating children with silver diamine fluoride and other fluoride varnishes in school‐based oral health programs.
Twenty‐four‐month real‐life treatment outcomes of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy versus type 1 macular neovascularization in Caucasians
Authors: Airaldi Matteo , Invernizzi Alessandro , Nguyen Vuong , Vujosevic Stela , Ricci Federico , Monaco Pietro , Nassisi Marco , Barthelmes Daniel , Gillies Mark , Viola Francesco
Published: October 2023

Background

To compare 24‐month real‐world outcomes of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) inhibitors for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) and type 1 Macular Neovascularization (MNV) in a Caucasian population.

Methods

Retrospective analysis from a prospectively designed observational database. Data from Italian centres participating in the Fight Retinal Blindness! (FRB!) project were collected. Treatment‐naïve PCV or type 1 MNV commencing treatment after January 2009 were included. The primary outcome was 24‐month visual acuity (VA) change; other outcomes included baseline characteristics, number of anti‐VEGF injections, time to lesion inactivation and proportion of active visits.

Results

A total of 322 eyes (114 PCVs) from 291 patients were included. Median [Q1, Q3] VA at baseline was comparable (70 [55, 75.8] vs. 70 [58.8, 75] letters, p = 0.95). Adjusted VA change at 2 years was higher in PCV (mean [95% CI], +1.2 [−1.6, 4.1] vs. −3.6 [−6, −1.2] letters, p = 0.005). PCV received fewer anti‐VEGF injections over the first 24 months of treatment than type 1 MNV (median [Q1, Q3], 8 [5, 10] vs. 9 [7, 12.2] injections, p = 0.001), inactivated earlier (median [Q1, Q3], 235 [184, 308] vs. 252 [169, 343] days, p = 0.04) and was less frequently graded ‘active’ (62% vs. 68% of visits, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

PCV had slightly better VA outcomes over 24 months of treatment than type 1 MNV after receiving less anti‐VEGF injections. These results suggest a possible overlap of the two clinical entities with similar visual prognosis in Caucasians.
Comparison of 18F‐sodium fluoride positron emission tomography and computed tomography for imaging of the fetlock in 25 nonracehorses
Authors: Pige Charlene , Spriet Mathieu , Perez‐Nogues Marcos , Katzman Scott , Le Jeune Sarah , Galuppo Larry
Published: October 2023

Background

18F‐sodium fluoride (18F‐NaF) positron emission tomography (PET) has been validated as a useful imaging technique in the racehorse fetlock. The use of 18F‐NaF PET in the nonracehorse fetlock has not been reported.

Objectives

To describe 18F‐NaF PET findings in nonracehorse fetlocks, to compare with computed tomography (CT) findings and to compare PET findings between horses with and without fetlock pain.

Study design

Retrospective observational study.

Methods

All horses undergoing 18F‐NaF PET and CT imaging of the fetlock between October 2016 and March 2021 were included in the study. Medical records were reviewed for associated lameness information.

Results

Thirty‐six fetlocks (33 front and 3 hind) from 25 horses were included. The interobserver agreement for PET [0.62 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.65)] was higher than for CT [0.47 (95% CI 0.43–0.51)]. Increased 18F‐NaF uptake was most common in the medial subchondral bone of the proximal phalanx (23/36), the dorsomedial (20/36) and dorsosagittal (16/36) metacarpal/metatarsal distal subchondral bone, whereas sclerosis was identified on CT in these areas in 22 of 36 (p > 0.9), 33 of 36 (p = 0.001) and 23 of 36 (p = 0.15), respectively. Significant correlations were found between PET grades and both subchondral sclerosis and resorption CT grades (p < 0.001, Spearman r = 0.19 and 0.21, respectively). Abnormal 18F‐NaF uptake in the proximal sesamoid bones (PSBs) was identified in 12 of 36 of the fetlocks, which was more common than CT abnormalities (3/36, p = 0.02). Periarticular increased uptake was seen in 7 of 36 fetlocks, whereas osteophytosis was recognised on CT in 20 of 36 (p = 0.1). Maximal standardised uptake values (SUVmax) were significantly higher in painful than in nonpainful fetlocks (22.0 and 11.9, respectively, p = 0.038).

Main limitations

Retrospective study and limited sample size.

Conclusions

Overall PET and CT findings follow a similar distribution in their location. PET identified more abnormalities in the PSBs than CT. SUVmax is a pertinent factor to take into consideration for the assessment of the clinical significance of findings.
On the fracture and energy characteristics of rock–backfill composite structure specimens exposed to fatigue–creep interaction loading
Authors: Wang Yu , Yi Xuefeng , Long Dayu , Mao Tianqiao
Published: October 2023

A series of stress‐controlled fatigue–creep interaction loading tests were performed on rock–backfill composite structure (RBCS) samples. The testing results reveal the influence of cement/tailing (c/t) on deformation, energy dissipation, damage evolution, and macro–meso failure patterns. The equivalent lifetime of RBCS is the largest for a sample with smaller stiffness filling, a smaller stiffness filling leads to weaker volumetric expansion. Additionally, strain energy is relatively large for larger stiffness filling, indicating a larger proportion of energy release at failure. A dissipated energy‐based damage evolution model is proposed to describe damage propagation at the entire fatigue–creep process which fits well with the experimental data. Moreover, the macro–meso failure pattern reveals the interactions between surrounding rock and filling material, failure seems to change from tension splitting to shear with increasing c/t. Good agreement was found among the volumetric deformation, energy dissipation, and failure pattern. It is suggested that flexible backfilling is benefit to prevent rock spalling and collapse.
Co‐culture relationship between Zygosaccharomyces rouxii and Candida versatilis and its effect on the flavour of soy sauce
Authors: Fu Bin , Wang Jing , Xiao Ting , Liu Zeping , Fu Caixia , Zhou Mengzhou , Liu Zhijie , Li Wei , Hu Yong , Wang Chao , Xu Ning
Published: October 2023

Zygosaccharomyces rouxii and Candida versatilis are important flavour‐producing yeasts in soy sauce fermentation. In the present study, the interaction between Z. rouxii and C. versatilis co‐cultures in YPD and raw soy sauce medium was investigated and applied to soy sauce fermentation. The concentration of Z. rouxii in the co‐culture was 0.47 times that in the mono‐culture. This observation suggested that C. versatilis inhibited the growth of Z. rouxii, likely attributed to various factors, including the production of acids and heat‐ and protease‐sensitive substances by C. versatilis. Furthermore, we examined the physicochemical properties and characteristic volatile flavour components of soy sauce by adding varying ratios of Z. rouxii and C. versatilis at different stages of fermentation. The results showed that mixed fermentation of Z. rouxii and C. versatilis enhanced the total nitrogen, amino acid nitrogen, 4‐hydroxy‐2(5)‐ethyl‐5(2)‐methyl‐3(2H)‐furanone, and volatile compounds in soy sauce compared to single‐strain fermentation. Additionally, optimal soy sauce results were obtained when yeasts were added on day 45, with an inoculation ratio of 1:1. In conclusion, during the moromi fermentation stage, the appropriate selection of the inoculation ratio and time for Z. rouxii and C. versatilis addition can effectively enhance the physicochemical properties and flavour attributes of soy sauce.
Chinese grand(parenting) encourages a re‐imagining of Canada's immigration regime
Authors: Wang Chen J. , Hari Amrita
Published: October 2023

Canada's migration regime prioritizes the admission of young skilled immigrants while restricting elderly immigrants constructed as non‐contributing dependents. We review and compare the current pathways to family reunification for elderly immigrants. Based on interviews with 16 Chinese skilled immigrant mothers and eight sponsored (grand)parents in Edmonton and Ottawa, we highlight the contributions made by elderly Chinese immigrants to social reproduction, intergenerational cultural preservation, and various forms of transnational support. We also reveal the financial and emotional costs incurred by young skilled immigrants who sought to sponsor their elderly parents for permanent residency. Based on these rich conversations, we propose two policy recommendations to reduce the pressure on sponsoring family members and create opportunities for elderly immigrants to access gainful employment.
Partial purification and immobilization of ribonuclease T2
Authors: Leon D. , Gite S. , Shankar V.
Published: October 2023

A simple procedure, consisting of water extraction, heat treatment at pH 2.0, negative adsorption on DEAE‐cellulose at pH 4.9, and concanavalin A‐Sepharose chromatography, was developed for the partial purification of ribonuclease (RNase) T2 from taka‐diastase powder with an overall yield of 5.5%. The partially purified enzyme when coupled to aminoethyl Bio‐Gel P‐60, retained 12–16% of the activity of the soluble enzyme. Temperature stability studies on RNase T2 bound to matrices, activated with increasing concentrations of glutaraldehyde, and the influence of lysine modification on the activity of the soluble enzyme revealed that the low activity observed for the gel‐bound enzyme is probably due to the masking of the active site of the enzyme as a result of the involvement of lysine residues, situated near the active site, during coupling. Immobilization did not affect the pH and temperature optima of RNase T2. On repeated use, the bound enzyme retained approximately 55% of its initial activity after six cycles. These results are discussed, taking into consideration the factors affecting immobilized enzymes.
Enzymatic properties of polyethylene glycol‐modified cholesterol esterase in organic solvents
Authors: Mori S. , Nakata Y. , Endo H.
Published: October 2023

The solvent dependency and substrate specificity of polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐modified cholesterol esterase (CEH) catalyzing cholesterol ester synthesis in organic solvents were studied. When cholesterol and linoleic acid were used as the substrates, PEG‐modified CEH synthesized cholesterol linoleate only in water‐immiscible organic solvents. Among some solvents capable of solubilizing all of the reaction components (PEG‐modified CEH, cholesterol, and linoleic acid), chloroform was most suitable for enzymatic cholesterol linoleate synthesis, and the synthetic activity for cholesterol linoleate decreased in the order chloroform, benzene, toluene, and cyclohexane. PEG‐modified CEH synthesized various cholesterol esters with significant substrate specificity. The substrate specificity for cholesterol ester synthesis in benzene was analogous to that for cholesterol ester hydrolysis in aqueous solution.
Syntheses and immunological effects of thymic humoral factor‐gamma 2 and its Phe7‐substituted analogues
Authors: Abiko T. , Sekino H.
Published: October 2023

Thymic humoral factor‐gamma 2 and five analogues modified at position 7 with various phenylalanine derivatives were synthesized by a solid‐phase method. The synthetic peptides were tested for their effects on the impaired blastogenic response of phytohaemagglutin‐stimulated T‐lymphocytes of uraemic patients with infectious diseases. The synthetic thymic humoral factor‐gamma 2 enhanced the blastogenic response of T‐lymphocytes in the blood of the two patients tested. Of the synthetic peptides, [4‐fluoro‐Phe7]thymic humoral factor‐gamma 2 exhibited the most potent effect.
Xaa‐Pro‐dipeptidyl‐aminopeptidase from Lactococcus lactis catalyses kinetically controlled synthesis of peptide bonds involving proline
Authors: Yoshpe‐Besancon I. , JC Gripon , Ribadeau‐Dumas B.
Published: October 2023

Xaa‐Pro‐dipeptidyl‐aminopeptidase (EC 3.4.14.5) from Lactococcus lactis (PepX) was used, for the first time, as a catalyst in kinetically controlled synthesis of peptide bonds involving proline. PepX had amidase and esterase activities in addition to peptidase activity. Thus amide and ester derivatives of X‐Pro peptides could be employed as acyl donors. PepX showed a broad specificity for the residue in position P'1, accepting a large variety of amino acid amides, esters, peptides as well as free amino acids as nucleophiles. This also indicated that it was not necessary to protect the C‐terminus of the nucleophile. The major factors controlling yield, e.g. pH, an excess of nucleophile, ionic strength and type of carboxyl protecting and activating groups, were evaluated. Under optimum reaction conditions (pH 8.5, high excess of nucleophile over acyl donor and moderate ionic strength) the selectivity of the reaction ranged from 5 to 99% depending on the structure of the nucleophile and the acyl donor. Our work contributes to the elucidatation of the mechanism of aminolysis reactions catalysed by an aminopeptidase.
Photolinker‐polymer‐mediated immobilization of monoclonal antibodies, F(ab')2 and F(ab') fragments
Authors: Gao H. , Kislig E. , Oranth N. , Sigrist H.
Published: October 2023

Photolinker‐polymer‐mediated covalent immobilization of antibodies, F(ab') and F(ab')2 fragments has been achieved by light‐dependent coupling procedures. Anti‐alpha‐foetoprotein (anti‐AFP) monoclonal antibodies were covalently linked to microplates by layer‐coating procedures, which entail antibody photoimmobilization to a photolinker‐polymer‐precoated surface. In this and the co‐coating procedure described, diazirine‐functionalized BSA (T‐BSA) served as the multifunctional light‐activatable linking agent (photolinker polymer). Prior to photo‐activation, F(ab')2 or F(ab') fragments derived from anti‐(prostate‐specific antigen) monoclonal antibodies were mixed and co‐coated with the photolinker polymer on to polystyrene microplates. The immunoreagents remained immunologically active after 350 nm irradiation (irradiance 0.7 mW.cm‐2 for 20 min). Immuno‐responses of photoimmobilized monoclonal anti‐AFP antibodies were equivalent to signal intensities obtained with physically adsorbed antibodies. Photoimmobilization of anti‐PSA F(ab') fragments in the presence of T‐BSA revealed exponential binding characteristics indicating stabilizing molecular co‐operativity of the BSA constituent. Co‐coating procedures yielded 62 and 65% binding of applied 14C‐labelled F(ab')2 and F(ab') fragments respectively. Covalency of antibody binding was inferred from: (i) the strict dependence of photoreagent availability; (ii) the light‐dependence of the immobilization process; and (iii) the reversibility of immunocomplexation after acid treatment.
The Color Harmony Manual, a Color Atlas Based on the Ostwald Color System
Authors: Granville Walter C.
Published: October 2023

The Color Harmony Manual is a color atlas based on the Ostwald color system and widely used for color selection and specification for several decades beginning in 1942. It has been out of print since 1972; however, many libraries have a copy of the third or fourth edition. This is a report on the history, the colorimetric basis and specification, and the use of the several editions of the Manual. Included are representative colorimetric datafor the third edition. The Ostwald hue triangles and a color solid made with them portray and help explain the sensory world of color. Important sequences, the clears, lie on the outside surface of the solid. Color scales of equal blackness and whiteness are defined. Comparisons are made with the designs of the color charts in other atlases. An appendix concerning the third edition discusses a Descriptive Color Names Dictionary, availability of matching paints, a set of artists' colors, and production details of the colors.
An Evaluation of a School‐Based Suicide Awareness Intervention
Authors: Kalafat John , Elias Maurice
Published: October 2023

This study employed a self‐report questionnaire in a Solomon four‐groups design to assess the efficacy of suicide intervention classes in achieving their instructional objectives. Because adolescents are often the first to know of a peer's suicidal thoughts or plans, the goal of the classes was to increase the likelihood that students who come into contact with potentially suicidal peers can more readily identify them and will be consistently inclined to take responsible action on their behalf. Students who participated in the classes as compared to controls showed significant gains in relevant knowledge about suicidal peers and significantly more positive attitudes toward help seeking and intervening with troubled peers. Results of this study will be used to strengthen components of the lessons aimed at enhancing the likelihood of performance of responsible interventions
A Necessary Neologism: The Origin and Uses of Suicide
Authors: Barraclough Brian , Shepherd Daphne
Published: October 2023

In English‐speaking societies today the word suicide is the preferred term for self‐inflicted death. But it has not always been so. Evidence recounted here suggests that suicide was devised by Sir Thomas Browne and first published in his book Religio Medici in 1643. Although little used at first, suicide had become established as noun and verb by the mid‐18th century and was recognized by inclusion in Johnson's Dictionary. The modern world has seen an enormous increase in words and expressions derived from suicide, some of which are discussed here.
Improved positional accuracy of dental implant placement using a haptic and machine‐vision‐controlled collaborative surgery robot: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shi Jun‐Yu , Liu Bei‐Lei , Wu Xin‐Yu , Liu Min , Zhang Qi , Lai Hong‐Chang , Tonetti Maurizio S.
Published: October 2023

Aim

To compare the implant accuracy, safety and morbidity between robot‐assisted and freehand dental implant placement.

Materials and Methods

Subjects requiring single‐site dental implant placement were recruited. Patients were randomly allocated to freehand implant placement and robot‐assisted implant placement. Differences in positional accuracy of the implant, surgical morbidity and complications were assessed. The significance of intergroup differences was tested with an intention‐to‐treat analysis and a per‐protocol (PP) analysis (excluding one patient due to calibration error).

Results

Twenty patients (with a median age of 37, 13 female) were included. One subject assigned to the robotic arm was excluded from the PP analysis because of a large calibration error due to the dislodgement of the index. For robot‐assisted and freehand implant placement, with the PP analysis, the median (25th–75th percentile) platform global deviation, apex global deviation and angular deviation were 1.23 (0.9–1.4) mm/1.9 (1.2–2.3) mm (p = .03, the Mann–Whitney U‐test), 1.40 (1.1–1.6) mm/2.1 (1.7–3.9) mm (p < .01) and 3.0 (0.9–6.0)°/6.7 (2.2–13.9)° (p = .08), respectively. Both methods showed limited damage to the alveolar ridge and had similar peri‐ and post‐operative morbidity and safety.

Conclusions

Robot‐assisted implant placement enabled greater positional accuracy of the implant compared to freehand placement in this pilot trial. The robotic system should be further developed to simplify surgical procedures and improve accuracy and be validated in properly sized trials assessing the full spectrum of relevant outcomes.
Mediation of meaningful outcomes in early intervention: a commentary on Carruthers et al. (2023)
Authors: Shire Stephanie , Shih Wendy
Published: October 2023

Across the spectrum of behavioral, naturalistic developmental behavioral, and developmental/relational interventions for young children with autism, there has been limited empirical testing of the mechanism of these early intervention approaches. Testing mediation provides insights to the how or why the intervention condition may be preferred in comparison to a control in the population sample (Kraemer, American Journal of Psychiatry, 2016, 173, 672). Combined with an understanding of moderation (for whom or under what conditions), we move toward a better understanding of how to personalize interventions to build on strengths and maximize skill gains for autistic children. Yet, to date there are very few published texts of mechanism in early intervention for young children with autism. This commentary explores a recently published article by Carruthers et al (2023) and examines themes and considerations for measurement of intervention outcomes and mediators.
European equity markets volatility spillover: Destabilizing energy risk is the new normal
Authors: Huszár Zsuzsa R. , Kotró Balázs B. , Tan Ruth S. K.
Published: October 2023

While energy risk is increasingly recognized as a systemic risk, there is limited comprehensive analysis of the risk propagation in regional contexts. In this study, we examine oil and natural gas price changes and shocks in relation to equity market returns and volatility for 24 European Economic Area (EEA) countries. In addition to traditional panel regressions, we also deploy the Diebold‐Yilmaz (2014) spillover index for a closed network analysis. We differentiate in the cross‐section across the core EU block, PIIGS countries, EU enlargement countries joining after 2004, and other non‐EU countries, to provide insights into the ongoing debates on the European energy market stability. While we find evidence of the manifestation of energy risk throughout the sample period, we find that until 2019 the primary sources of volatility spillover in the EEA economic network arose from economic or political uncertainty. Energy risks, measured by large crude oil and natural gas price shocks also significantly contributed to equity market volatility, with increasing volatility risk arising from natural gas, a green labelled energy source after 2019. Last, we show that CEEC equity markets are more sensitive to oil and natural gas price shocks when domestic currencies depreciate against the Euro.
First report of Neopestalotiopsis clavispora causing foliar disease of rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) in the Philippines
Authors: Solpot Tamie C. , Villanueva Jill D. , Abello Meynard P. , Zuñiga John Benrich M.
Published: October 2023

In September 2022, a leaf spot disease, which later coalesce and result into leaf defoliation of rubber was observed in Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines. Morpho‐cultural and molecular characterization identified the pathogen as Neopestalotiopsis clavispora. Koch's postulates were fulfilled confirming its pathogenicity to rubber seedlings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of N. clavispora infecting rubber in the Philippines.
Gastric pH and serum gastrin concentration in age‐matched healthy dogs and dogs with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Grady Kylie , Ernst Eli , Secoura Patricia L. , Price Josh , Birkenheuer Adam , Vaden Shelly L. , Lidbury Jonathan , Gould Emily , Steiner Joerg M. , Tolbert M. Katherine
Published: October 2023

Background

Gastric hyperacidity and hypergastrinemia are purported to cause gastric ulceration in dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD); however, no published studies have evaluated gastric pH with serum gastrin concentrations in dogs with CKD.

Hypothesis

To compare mean intragastric pH, mean percent pH distribution, and serum gastrin concentrations in dogs with CKD to age‐matched, healthy dogs. We hypothesized there would be no difference in mean gastric pH or serum gastrin between groups.

Animals

Thirteen dogs with CKD; 10 aged‐matched healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective, case‐control study. Serum chemistry, complete blood count, urinalysis, and serum gastrin concentrations were evaluated in all dogs before radiographic‐assisted gastric placement of a pH capsule. Forty‐eight‐hour continuous gastric pH monitoring was performed in all dogs. Serum gastrin concentration, mean pH, and mean percentage time that gastric pH was strongly acidic (pH <1 and pH <2) were compared between groups using a repeated measures mixed‐model ANOVA.

Results

No significant differences were observed between groups for any pH measurements, including mean ± SD gastric pH (CKD, 2.37 ± 0.87; healthy, 2.39 ± 0.99; P > .05). Serum gastrin concentrations were not significantly different between groups (median [range]: CKD, 10.5 ng/dL [<10‐17.1]; healthy, 10.9 ng/dL [<10‐15]; P > .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Our client‐owned dogs with CKD did not have lower gastric pH or higher serum gastrin concentrations compared to healthy dogs. Our results suggest that prophylactic gastric acid suppression in dogs with CKD is not warranted unless other clinical indications for use are present.
Population biology of the endangered land crab Johngarthia lagostoma (H. Milne Edwards, 1837) in the Trindade Island, Brazil: Identifying crucial areas for future conservation strategies
Authors: João Marcio Camargo Araujo , Duarte Rafael Campos , Freire Andrea Santarosa , Kriegler Nicholas , Pinheiro Marcelo Antonio Amaro
Published: October 2023

The life history of insular gecarcinid crabs is divided into a marine larval and an adult phase, adapted to the terrestrial environment. As adults, individuals migrate seasonally to locations near the sea, engaging in reproductive behaviors. Therefore, identifying breeding and recruitment areas is crucial for the conservation of insular gecarcinids, especially for those endangered, such as Johngarthia lagostoma (H. Milne Edwards, 1837). We used sex ratio and sexual dimorphism analyses (body and cheliped size) as well as records of juveniles and adults to describe the population structure of J. lagostoma in the Trindade Island, Brazil. During the reproductive period, several population parameters were compared among sites with different altitudes, comprising two beaches (Andradas and Tartarugas) and two hills (Príncipe, 136 m; and Desejado, 612 m). Overall, males predominated in the population and invested more in body and cheliped growth than females. However, at Andradas Beach, it was observed a similar frequency of adult males and females as well as a small difference in the body size between the sexes. In comparison, the smallest crabs were found at Príncipe Hill. The analyzed population presented a predominance of adults, especially at Andradas Beach (93.1%). Compared to the other sites sampled, Príncipe Hill showed the highest abundance of juveniles (males: 22.2%; females: 40.8%). Thus, Andradas Beach was considered a reproductive site, while Príncipe Hill had the highest density of juveniles, which makes them priority areas for the conservation of J. lagostoma in Trindade Island.
PdeERF114 recruits PdeWRKY75 to regulate callus formation in poplar by modulating the accumulation of H2O2 and the relaxation of cell walls
Authors: Zhang Yan , Cai Guanghua , Zhang Keai , Sun Huanxi , Huang Liyu , Ren Wenyu , Ding Yiwei , Wang Nian
Published: October 2023

Callus formation is important for numerous biological processes in plants. Previously, we revealed that the PdeWRKY75–PdeRBOHB module positively regulates hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation, thereby affecting callus formation in poplar.

In this study, we identified and confirmed a transcription factor, PdeERF114, that interacts with PdeWRKY75 both in vitro and in vivo. Gene expression analysis identified both PdeRBOHB and PdeEXPB2 as downstream genes of PdeERF114 and PdeWRKY75. Overexpression (OE) and reduced‐expression (RE) transgenic poplar lines for these four genes were generated, and the observation of callus formation was also performed in all plant materials.

We demonstrated that PdeERF114 and PdeWRKY75 formed a protein complex and that this complex could bind W‐Box motifs in the promoters of PdeRBOHB and PdeEXPB2, thereby positively regulating the expression of PdeRBOHB and PdeEXPB2. The OE/RE transgenic lines for these four genes also showed enhanced/reduced callus formation.

Overall, we revealed a novel gene regulatory network for the regulation of callus formation in plants that involves four genes and regulates callus formation through two pathways: the accumulation of H2O2 in explants and the relaxation of cell walls. In the future, the four genes could be used to enhance transformation effectiveness in genetic engineering.