bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical isoniazid as a novel treatment for melasma: A randomized, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ahramiyanpour Najmeh , Mahmoudi Zahra , Nezhad Nazanin Zeinali , Khazaeli Payam , Amiri Rezvan , Kasraee Behrooz
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Melasma is a chronic hyperpigmentation disorder, and its treatment poses a challenge to dermatologists due to its chronicity and resistance to conventional therapies. Oral isoniazid is used for the treatment of tuberculosis. One of us had previously showed that topical isoniazid exerts a strong depigmenting action in animal models. In this clinical trial, we assessed the therapeutic effect of topical isoniazid on melasma.

Methods

Twenty female patients suffering from epidermal melasma were enrolled and divided equally into two groups. The treatment group received topical isoniazid 10%, and the control group received the cold cream vehicle as the placebo. All participants were advised to avoid sunlight and used SPF 50 sunscreen. Patients applied topical agents once daily at night for 3 months. The melanin and erythema indices were measured by colorimetric evaluations at baseline and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment. At these time points, the (mMASI) score was also determined, as was the subjective evaluation through Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQOL) scores. Blood tests were performed to evaluate CBC and the liver enzymes.

Results

All patients completed the 12‐week study. In the treatment group, a significant decrease in melanin index from 63.77 ± 6.27 at baseline to 55.92 ± 5.79 was recorded (p = 0.001). Very minimal clinical changes were also seen in the control group and melanin index was decreased from 62.65 ± 2.23 to 61.25 ± 2.34 (p = 0.004). Clinically significant differences were observed in the rate of changes between both groups. These findings indicate that topical isoniazid has significant depigmenting effects compared to the placebo (p = 0.001). The erythema index remained unchanged in both groups. In the treatment group, the mMASI score was 5.63 ± 3.28 at baseline and 2.13 ± 1.71 at the last follow‐up, significantly reduced compared to the control group (p = 0.002). The MELASQOL score indicated a significant improvement in the quality of life in the treatment group.

Conclusion

This clinical trial shows for the first time that topical isoniazid is effective in treating melasma. Further clinical trials are necessary to confirm the efficacy and tolerability of topical isoniazid in comparison with other skin‐depigmenting compounds.
The role of cumulative risk and armed conflict exposure in adolescent psychological symptoms in Turkey
Authors: Kara Buket , Selcuk Bilge
Published: April 2024

Exposure to risk factors and adversity may cause immediate, and sometimes prolonged, psychological symptoms in adolescents. Identifying universal and specific risk factors in a particular context and examining their cumulative effects is crucial for understanding the mechanisms underlying psychological symptoms and informing about strategies for intervention. Using concurrent measures, the current study aimed to examine the role of armed conflict experiences and cumulation of other risk factors (e.g., maternal psychological symptoms, socioeconomic indicators) in predicting adolescent psychological symptoms in an underresearched community. The sample included 161 adolescents (54.7% female) aged 11–14 years (M = 12.36, SD = 1.27) and their mothers living in the east of Turkey. The cumulative risk index was calculated by summing the standardized scores of the corresponding factors. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to predict internalizing and externalizing symptoms among adolescents by introducing demographic variables (age, gender) in the first step, armed conflict experiences and cumulative risk in the second step, and their interaction in the final step. Results showed that the levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms were predicted by gender, armed conflict experience and cumulative risk. Being a girl was associated with higher levels of internalizing symptoms and lower levels of externalizing symptoms. Higher levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms were predicted by exposure to armed and cumulative risk. After controlling for other factors, the interaction of armed conflict experience and cumulative risk significantly predicted externalizing, but not internalizing symptoms. These findings suggested that cumulative risk was a stronger predictor of psychological symptoms, and further amplified the strength of the association between armed conflict experiences and externalizing symptoms. These findings can be used in the formulation of intervention strategies and policies to promote psychological well‐being in adolescents living in armed conflict zones under multiple risks.
New consensus definition on defining and measuring care for children with paediatric feeding disorder
Authors: Elliot Chris , Hopwood Nick , Moraby Khadeejah , Crockett Naomi , Wright Simone , Vanos Katelyn , Furey Krystal , Hammond Anna , Handley Siobhan , Dalby‐Payne Jacqueline , Dadich Ann , Gottschalk Belinda , Ooi Chee Y , Woolfenden Susan
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study addresses the absence of a definition of care for children with feeding disorders, limited agreement on key performance indicators (KPIs), and the lack of data linked to those KPIs.

Methods

Clinicians, consumers and researchers involved in outpatient feeding care in New South Wales (NSW), Australia were invited to participate in a two‐Phase study. In Phase 1, a modified Delphi method was used. Two rounds of voting resulted in a new consensus definition of a multidisciplinary paediatric feeding clinic. Three further rounds voting determined relevant KPIs. In Phase 2, the KPIs were piloted prospectively in 10 clinics.

Results

Twenty‐six clinicians, consumers and researchers participated in Phase 1. Participation across five voting rounds declined from 92% to 60% and a valid definition and KPI set were created. In Phase 2, the definition and KPIs were piloted in 10 clinics over 6 weeks. Data for 110 patients were collected. The final KPI set of 28 measures proposed covers clinical features, patient demographics and medical issues, parent–child interaction and outcome measures.

Conclusions

A new definition of a multidisciplinary paediatric feeding clinic is now available, linked to a standardised KPI set covering relevant performance measures. These proved viable in baseline data collection for 10 clinics across NSW. This sets a foundation for further data collection, systematic measurement of care provision and outcomes, and research needed to deliver care improvement for children with paediatric feeding disorder.
Burden and distribution of mortality due to sepsis and severe infection in children and adolescents in Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: McDonald Gabrielle , Hayman Rebecca , Hii Joseph
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aims of this research were to determine the mortality from sepsis and severe infection in the paediatric and adolescent populations of Aotearoa/New Zealand, and to determine the distribution of mortality by sub‐populations.

Methods

We used three different methods to identify deaths from sepsis and severe infection and compared the groups:

All deaths primarily coded with any ICD‐10‐AM code relating to sepsis;

The presence of A40, A41 and P36 in any cause of death field;

Deaths due to pneumonia and meningitis.

Cases were selected from a national mortality database, with cause of death as ascribed in the national mortality collection for the years 2002–2020 inclusive. Overall sepsis and severe infection rates were calculated from the sum of unique cases from all three methods for determining sepsis and severe infection cases.

Results

Substantially different results were obtained depending on the method of identifying cases. In total, 577 deaths due to sepsis and severe infection were detected, with an overall rate of 1.99/100 000 age‐specific population and statistically significant disparity by ethnic grouping. Rates were highest in post‐neonatal infants at 22.7 per 100 000, regardless of the method of identification.

Conclusions

There is a considerable opportunity to improve the mortality from sepsis and severe infection in children and young people. The ethnic disparities described in this paper show the need to ensure a high level of care for those most marginalised in society through the development and provision of systems and structures that meet, rather than fail to meet need.
Evaluation of phyllosphere bacterial biocontrol agents for the suppression of rice foliar diseases
Authors: Sobanbabu G. , Oviya R. , Meena B. , Vijayasamundeeswari A. , Shanmugaiah V. , Ramamoorthy V.
Published: April 2024

Phyllosphere colonizing antagonistic bacterial isolates were evaluated for managing major rice foliar diseases, namely brown spot caused by Bipolaris oryzae and sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae. Among these various isolates, Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate 1 effectively inhibited the mycelial growth of B. oryzae and S. oryzae. The volatile compounds of Bacillus subtilis isolates effectively inhibited the mycelial growth of S. oryzae and B. oryzae. Non‐volatile compounds of P. aeruginosa isolate 2 and B. subtilis isolate 1 recorded the maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of B. oryzae and S. oryzae, respectively. P. aeruginosa isolates produced fluorescent pigments and hydrogen cyanide (HCN), whereas isolates of Bacillus spp. did not. All the isolates of P. aeruginosa and Bacillus spp. produced protease enzymes. P. aeruginosa isolates solubilized phosphate, whereas isolates of Bacillus spp. did not. Rice seeds treated with these bacterial suspensions showed improvement in plant growth parameters. The foliar application of two bacterial strains, namely P. aeruginosa isolate 1 + B. subtilis isolate 1 recorded the minimum brown spot and sheath rot disease incidence. Thus, the present showed that phyllosphere colonizing P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis have the potential application for managing foliar fungal diseases of rice plants.
First report of Puccinia modiolae causing rust disease on Alcea rosea in China
Authors: Song Liangdong , Zhai Peijie , Yao Qingqin , Wang Zhongdi , Liu Saifei , Yang Yuheng
Published: April 2024

In China, about 500 Puccinia species have been discovered, with over 200 species distributed in Shaanxi province. In 2023, a rust disease of Alcea rosea was discovered in Shaanxi Province, China, and the pathogen was identified as Puccinia modiolae through morphological characterization and phylogenetic analysis. This is the first documented report of rust disease on A. rosea caused by P. modiolae in China.
Sleep effort and its measurement: A scoping review
Authors: Marques Daniel Ruivo , Pires Luís , Broomfield Niall M. , Espie Colin A.
Published: April 2024

Insomnia disorder is characterized by disruption in sleep continuity and an overall dissatisfaction with sleep. A relevant feature of insomnia is sleep effort, which refers to both cognitive and behavioural conscious attempts to initiate sleep. The Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale is a self‐report tool developed to assess this construct. The objective of the current scoping review was to map how sleep effort has been discussed in the literature and operationalized through its respective measure. Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and PsycInfo databases were used to search for potential studies. The search query used in databases was the specific name of the self‐reported tool itself (Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale) and “sleep effort” term. This scoping review followed JBI guidelines. To be included, records pertaining to any type of study that mentioned the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale were considered. No language constraint was used. At the end, 166 initial records were retrieved. From those, 46 records met eligibility criteria and were analysed. Among the main findings, it was observed that the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale has been increasingly used in recent years, with a notable observed upward trend, especially in the last 2 years. In addition to the original measure, only three published adapted versions of the instrument were identified. This suggests that there is limited research on adapting the scale for different populations or contexts. Sleep effort has been increasingly studied in the last few years. Nonetheless, more research on the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale tool is recommended, including cross‐cultural adaptations.
Quantifying direct and indirect linkages between seagrasses, environment and associated macrofauna in a temperate lagoon
Authors: Lawrence Cloverley M.
Published: April 2024

Seagrass ecosystems play a vital role in marine environments, providing essential services, including physical habitat that supports a species diversity critical to robust trophic structures. However, seagrass loss due to various influences raises concerns about the persistence of these ecosystems. Seagrass‐associated macrofauna serve as indicators of environmental health, noting change or stability. This study investigated the structural and environmental drivers influencing macrofaunal communities associated with seagrass (Zostera capensis) in a temperate lagoon. Variation in macrofaunal community structure across phenotypically distinct seagrass populations found large‐leaved morphotypes in deeper intertidal stands to support higher species diversity and richness. Conversely, small‐leaved populations in higher shore positions had a greater abundance of desiccation‐resistant gastropods. Seasonal differences were significant, with higher abundances generally observed during spring and summer, while diversity and richness peaked in autumn and winter. Structural equation modelling revealed shoot densities and leaf width to have positive direct effects on macrofaunal abundance, while temperature and tidal exposure produced significant indirect effects. Temperature had a direct effect on seagrass structure and significantly influenced five out of six seagrass metrics measured. Observations of seagrass distribution in the lagoon indicate significant declines in large‐leaved populations with likely adverse consequences for associated macrofauna and related trophic levels.
The influence of gene flow on population viability in an isolated urban caracal population
Authors: Kyriazis Christopher C. , Serieys Laurel E. K. , Bishop Jacqueline M. , Drouilly Marine , Viljoen Storme , Wayne Robert K. , Lohmueller Kirk E.
Published: April 2024

Wildlife populations are becoming increasingly fragmented by anthropogenic development. Small and isolated populations often face an elevated risk of extinction, in part due to inbreeding depression. Here, we examine the genomic consequences of urbanization in a caracal (Caracal caracal) population that has become isolated in the Cape Peninsula region of the City of Cape Town, South Africa, and is thought to number ~50 individuals. We document low levels of migration into the population over the past ~75 years, with an estimated rate of 1.3 effective migrants per generation. As a consequence of this isolation and small population size, levels of inbreeding are elevated in the contemporary Cape Peninsula population (mean FROH = 0.20). Inbreeding primarily manifests as long runs of homozygosity >10 Mb, consistent with the effects of isolation due to the rapid recent growth of Cape Town. To explore how reduced migration and elevated inbreeding may impact future population dynamics, we parameterized an eco‐evolutionary simulation model. We find that if migration rates do not change in the future, the population is expected to decline, though with a low projected risk of extinction. However, if migration rates decline or anthropogenic mortality rates increase, the potential risk of extinction is greatly elevated. To avert a population decline, we suggest that translocating migrants into the Cape Peninsula to initiate a genetic rescue may be warranted in the near future. Our analysis highlights the utility of genomic datasets coupled with computational simulation models for investigating the influence of gene flow on population viability.
Trophic ecology and small‐scale differentiation of ecological groups of franciscana dolphin, Pontoporia blainvillei, in southeastern Brazil, revealed by carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes
Authors: Teixeira Pedro H. O. , Montanini Gleici , Farro Ana P. C. , Colosio Adriana C. , Ramos Hernani G. C. , Barbosa Lupércio A. , Cunha Ian A. G. , Hostim‐Silva Maurício , Azevedo Alexandre F. , Cunha Haydée A. , Lailson‐Brito José , Bisi Tatiana L.
Published: April 2024

The franciscana, Pontoporia blainvillei, is an endemic dolphin off the east coast of South America and is considered the most endangered cetacean in the western South Atlantic. In the present study, we analyzed the muscle tissue of 24 franciscana dolphins found on the coast of Espírito Santo (ES) between 2010 and 2019 to investigate trophic ecology using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis. In addition, 127 prey were analyzed to identify the preferred prey. The most important prey species in the diet of the franciscana dolphins were Trichiurus lepturus, Chirocentrodon bleekerianus, and Pellona harroweri. The franciscana dolphins were grouped into three subareas according to where they were collected throughout the distribution: 1 (North), 2 (Center), and 3 (South). In subarea 1, the preferred prey were Stellifer spp., Isopisthus parvipinnis, and P. harroweri, while in subareas 2 and 3, the prey were similar, changing the order of preference among them (Stellifer spp., T. lepturus, and C. bleekerianus). Finally, we identify two possible ecological groups of franciscana dolphins on the coast of ES, influenced by different carbon sources. Our results improve our understanding of the franciscana dolphin's trophic ecology and habitat use, providing new information and guidelines for species conservation in the region.
Usefulness of combined telemedicine for self‐injection of calcitonin gene‐related peptide pathway targeting monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Takeshima Takao , Sanno Naoko , Miura Yumiko , Matsumori Yasuhiko
Published: April 2024

Objective

We examined whether the combined use of telemedicine and self‐injection could improve patient satisfaction.

Background

For patients with migraine, the use of calcitonin gene‐related peptide ‐pathway targeting monoclonal antibodies is associated with concerns, such as the burden of doctor visits and anxiety around self‐injection.

Methods

At four institutions, patients with migraines who used self‐injectable calcitonin gene‐related peptide ‐pathway targeting monoclonal antibodies attempted telemedicine, and web‐based questionnaires and interviews were conducted thereafter.

Results

Of the 26 participants, 58% felt that telemedicine helped with self‐injections and 65% wanted to continue using the combination. The average time required per doctor visit was reduced from 158 to 31 min, and the median from 86 to 18 min. The benefits included reduced burden (46%), ease of schedule adjustment (35%), and lower anxiety levels (19%).

Conclusion

Although there are issues with telemedicine usage, including the burden on healthcare professionals or lower reimbursement points, the combination of self‐injection of calcitonin gene‐related peptide ‐pathway targeting monoclonal antibodies and telemedicine is effective in improving the experience of patients have migraines.
Rare dual‐genotype IDH mutant glioma: Review of previously reported cases and two new cases of true “oligoastrocytoma”
Authors: Sutherland Isabella , DeWitt John , Thomas Alissa
Published: April 2024

In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) eliminated “oligoastrocytoma” from the classification of central nervous system (CNS) tumors, in favor of an integrated histologic and molecular diagnosis. Consistent with the 2016 classification, in the 2021 classification, oligodendrogliomas are defined by mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) with concurrent 1p19q codeletion, while astrocytomas are IDH mutant tumors, usually with ATRX loss. In 2007, a 24‐year‐old man presented with a brain tumor histologically described as astrocytoma, but with molecular studies consistent with an oligodendroglioma, IDH mutant and 1p19q‐codeleted. Years later, at resection, pathology revealed an astrocytoma, with variable ATRX expression and mutations of IDH, ATRX, TP53, and TERT by DNA sequencing. Fluorescence in situ hybridization studies confirmed 1p19q codeletion in sections of the tumor shown to histologically retain ATRX expression. Separately, in 2017, a 36‐year‐old woman presented with a frontal brain tumor with pathology consistent with an oligodendroglioma, IDH mutant and 1p19q‐codeleted. Two years later, pathology revealed an astrocytoma, IDH1 mutant, with ATRX loss. These two cases likely represent the rare occurrence of dual‐genotype IDH mutant infiltrating glioma. Nine cases of dual‐genotype IDH mutant glioma were previously reported in the literature. We present two cases in which this distinct molecular phenotype is present in a tumor in the same location with surgeries at two points in time, both with 1p19q codeletion and ATRX loss at the time of resection. Whether this represents a true “collision tumor” or genetic switching over time is not known, but the co‐occurrence of these hybrid mutations supports a diagnosis of dual‐genotype IDH mutant glioma.
Dynamics and drivers of mycorrhizal fungi after glacier retreat
Authors: Carteron Alexis , Cantera Isabel , Guerrieri Alessia , Marta Silvio , Bonin Aurélie , Ambrosini Roberto , Anthelme Fabien , Azzoni Roberto Sergio , Almond Peter , Alviz Gazitúa Pablo , Cauvy‐Fraunié Sophie , Ceballos Lievano Jorge Luis , Chand Pritam , Chand Sharma Milap , Clague John J. , Cochachín Rapre Justiniano Alejo , Compostella Chiara , Cruz Encarnación Rolando , Dangles Olivier , Eger Andre , Erokhin Sergey , Franzetti Andrea , Gielly Ludovic , Gili Fabrizio , Gobbi Mauro , Hågvar Sigmund , Khedim Norine , Meneses Rosa Isela , Peyre Gwendolyn , Pittino Francesca , Rabatel Antoine , Urseitova Nurai , Yang Yan , Zaginaev Vitalii , Zerboni Andrea , Zimmer Anaïs , Taberlet Pierre , Diolaiuti Guglielmina Adele , Poulenard Jerome , Thuiller Wilfried , Caccianiga Marco , Ficetola Gentile Francesco
Published: April 2024

The development of terrestrial ecosystems depends greatly on plant mutualists such as mycorrhizal fungi. The global retreat of glaciers exposes nutrient‐poor substrates in extreme environments and provides a unique opportunity to study early successions of mycorrhizal fungi by assessing their dynamics and drivers.

We combined environmental DNA metabarcoding and measurements of local conditions to assess the succession of mycorrhizal communities during soil development in 46 glacier forelands around the globe, testing whether dynamics and drivers differ between mycorrhizal types.

Mycorrhizal fungi colonized deglaciated areas very quickly (< 10 yr), with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi tending to become more diverse through time compared to ectomycorrhizal fungi. Both alpha‐ and beta‐diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi were significantly related to time since glacier retreat and plant communities, while microclimate and primary productivity were more important for ectomycorrhizal fungi. The richness and composition of mycorrhizal communities were also significantly explained by soil chemistry, highlighting the importance of microhabitat for community dynamics.

The acceleration of ice melt and the modifications of microclimate forecasted by climate change scenarios are expected to impact the diversity of mycorrhizal partners. These changes could alter the interactions underlying biotic colonization and belowground–aboveground linkages, with multifaceted impacts on soil development and associated ecological processes.
Suillus: an emerging model for the study of ectomycorrhizal ecology and evolution
Authors: Lofgren Lotus , Nguyen Nhu H. , Kennedy Peter G. , Pérez‐Pazos Eduardo , Fletcher Jessica , Liao Hui‐Ling , Wang Haihua , Zhang Kaile , Ruytinx Joske , Smith Alexander H. , Ke Yi‐Hong , Cotter H. Van T. , Engwall Eiona , Hameed Khalid M. , Vilgalys Rytas , Branco Sara
Published: April 2024

Research on mycorrhizal symbiosis has been slowed by a lack of established study systems. To address this challenge, we have been developing Suillus, a widespread ecologically and economically relevant fungal genus primarily associated with the plant family Pinaceae, into a model system for studying ectomycorrhizal (ECM) associations. Over the last decade, we have compiled extensive genomic resources, culture libraries, a phenotype database, and protocols for manipulating Suillus fungi with and without their tree partners. Our efforts have already resulted in a large number of publicly available genomes, transcriptomes, and respective annotations, as well as advances in our understanding of mycorrhizal partner specificity and host communication, fungal and plant nutrition, environmental adaptation, soil nutrient cycling, interspecific competition, and biological invasions. Here, we highlight the most significant recent findings enabled by Suillus, present a suite of protocols for working with the genus, and discuss how Suillus is emerging as an important model to elucidate the ecology and evolution of ECM interactions.
CPK1‐HSP90 phosphorylation and effector XopC2–HSP90 interaction underpin the antagonism during cassava defense‐pathogen infection
Authors: Wei Yunxie , Zhu Binbin , Zhang Ye , Ma Guowen , Wu Jingyuan , Tang Luzhi , Shi Haitao
Published: April 2024

Cassava is one of the most important tropical crops, but it is seriously affected by cassava bacteria blight (CBB) caused by the bacterial pathogen Xanthomonas phaseoli pv manihotis (Xam). So far, how pathogen Xam infects and how host cassava defends during pathogen–host interaction remains elusive, restricting the prevention and control of CBB.

Here, the illustration of HEAT SHOCK PROTEIN 90 kDa (MeHSP90.9) interacting proteins in both cassava and bacterial pathogen revealed the dual roles of MeHSP90.9 in cassava–Xam interaction.

On the one hand, calmodulin‐domain protein kinase 1 (MeCPK1) directly interacted with MeHSP90.9 to promote its protein phosphorylation at serine 175 residue. The protein phosphorylation of MeHSP90.9 improved the transcriptional activation of MeHSP90.9 clients (SHI‐RELATED SEQUENCE 1 (MeSRS1) and MeWRKY20) to the downstream target genes (avrPphB Susceptible 3 (MePBS3) and N‐aceylserotonin O‐methyltransferase 2 (MeASMT2)) and immune responses. On the other hand, Xanthomonas outer protein C2 (XopC2) physically associated with MeHSP90.9 to inhibit its interaction with MeCPK1 and the corresponding protein phosphorylation by MeCPK1, so as to repress host immune responses and promote bacterial pathogen infection.

In summary, these results provide new insights into genetic improvement of cassava disease resistance and extend our understanding of cassava–bacterial pathogen interaction.
Prezygotic mate selection is only partially correlated with the expression of NaS‐like RNases and affects offspring phenotypes
Authors: Baraniecka Patrycja , Seibt Wibke , Groten Karin , Kessler Danny , McGale Erica , Gase Klaus , Baldwin Ian T. , Pannell John R.
Published: April 2024

Nicotiana attenuata styles preferentially select pollen from among accessions with corresponding expression patterns of NaS‐like‐RNases (SLRs), and the postpollination ethylene burst (PPEB) is an accurate predictor of seed siring success. However, the ecological consequences of mate selection, its effect on the progeny, and the role of SLRs in the control of ethylene signaling remain unknown.

We explored the link between the magnitude of the ethylene burst and expression of the SLRs in a set of recombinant inbred lines (RILs), dissected the genetic underpinnings of mate selection through genome‐wide association study (GWAS), and examined its outcome for phenotypes in the next generation.

We found that high levels of PPEB are associated with the absence of SLR2 in most of the tested RILs. We identified candidate genes potentially involved in the control of mate selection and showed that pollination of maternal genotypes with their favored pollen donors produces offspring with longer roots. When the maternal genotypes are only able to select against nonfavored pollen donors, the selection for such positive traits is abolished.

We conclude that plants' ability of mate choice contributes to measurable changes in progeny phenotypes and is thus likely a target of selection.
La contevelle mauricienne d'après Ananada Devi. Le cas du Poids des êtres
Authors: Gadomska Katarzyna
Published: April 2024

Le but du présent article consiste à présenter des traits génériques de la forme narrative brève qu’est la contevelle mauricienne. Le corpus textuel à analyser est un recueil de récits, Le poids des êtres, d'Ananda Devi, l'une des écrivaines mauriciennes les plus célèbres. L'article examine les rapports entre la contevelle, le conte et la nouvelle. La contevelle semble être une forme hybride combinant des éléments des catégories littéraires suivantes : le conte de Noël, la nouvelle‐histoire et la nouvelle‐instant. Par ailleurs, l’article répond à la question de savoir si la contevelle est une catégorie littéraire emblématique pour l'île Maurice.
Incorporating photosynthetic acclimation improves stomatal optimisation models
Authors: Flo Victor , Joshi Jaideep , Sabot Manon , Sandoval David , Prentice Iain Colin
Published: April 2024

Stomatal opening in plant leaves is regulated through a balance of carbon and water exchange under different environmental conditions. Accurate estimation of stomatal regulation is crucial for understanding how plants respond to changing environmental conditions, particularly under climate change. A new generation of optimality‐based modelling schemes determines instantaneous stomatal responses from a balance of trade‐offs between carbon gains and hydraulic costs, but most such schemes do not account for biochemical acclimation in response to drought. Here, we compare the performance of six instantaneous stomatal optimisation models with and without accounting for photosynthetic acclimation. Using experimental data from 37 plant species, we found that accounting for photosynthetic acclimation improves the prediction of carbon assimilation in a majority of the tested models. Photosynthetic acclimation contributed significantly to the reduction of photosynthesis under drought conditions in all tested models. Drought effects on photosynthesis could not accurately be explained by the hydraulic impairment functions embedded in the stomatal models alone, indicating that photosynthetic acclimation must be considered to improve estimates of carbon assimilation during drought.
Clavibacter tessellarius causing bacterial mosaic of wheat establishes in the Old World
Authors: Nasiri Mostafa , Faghihi Mohammad Mehdi , Rahimian Heshmat , Osdaghi Ebrahim
Published: April 2024

The genus Clavibacter (family Microbacteriaceae) includes gram‐positive actinobacterial species infecting diverse agricultural crops such as alfalfa, maize, pepper, potato, tomato and wheat. Clavibacter tessellarius, causing bacterial mosaic of wheat, was reported for the first time in 1976 in Nebraska (United States). Since then, the pathogen was thought to be restricted to North America (Canada and the United States). While bacterial strains suspected to be C. tessellarius have occasionally been isolated from wheat samples outside North America, occurrence of the pathogen in the Old World has not yet been confirmed by the plant protection authorities. In spring 2020 (January to May) dozens of wheat fields with young plants showing leaf chlorosis and mild mosaic symptoms were surveyed and sampled in southern Iran. Among 192 surveyed wheat fields, gram‐positive, orange‐pigmented actinobacterial strains were isolated from samples of 53 fields. Altogether, 61 bacterial strains were identified as C. tessellarius based on the phenotypic features, PCR‐based molecular tests and pathogenicity assays. Multilocus sequence analysis of five housekeeping genes (atpD, dnaK, gyrB, ppk and rpoB) using 10 representative strains from diverse geographic areas in southern Iran confirmed the phylogenetic status of the strains within C. tessellarius. Our data indicate that the bacterial mosaic pathogen occurs in four southern Iranian provinces including Bushehr, Fars, Kerman and Khuzestan. Thus, occurrence of C. tessellarius outside North America is confirmed. Potential risks associated with the emergence of the pathogen in the Old World, and the need for strict quarantine measures in the area, is further discussed.
‘Like a torch that enlightens new parents along a narrow and winding path into parenthood’ – Midwives' experiences by an interview study
Authors: Johansson Margareta , Thies‐Lagergren Li
Published: April 2024

Background

The core of postnatal care is that midwives recognise the needs of women and new‐born babies and provide the highest possible quality of care and medical safety to optimise the health and well‐being of new families. The study aimed to describe midwives' experiences in providing postnatal care for families during the first week after the birth of their baby.

Methods

An interview study included 18 midwives who interchangeably worked within the models of traditional hospital care, hotel‐based care, home‐based care, hospital‐based check‐ups, and specialist care at a breastfeeding clinic at one university hospital in Sweden. Data collected were analysed using thematic analysis according to Braun and Clarke.

Findings

The main theme: ‘Like a torch that enlightens new parents along a narrow and winding path into parenthood – a midwife's transitional support’ was explored and comprised two themes: (1) Strengthening parents' self‐confidence in their parental role by handling over parental responsibility; and (2) Challenging to facilitate parents' understanding of their parental role.

Conclusions

Midwives expressed that supporting parents in the parental transition was a delicate task and included balancing mothers', babies', and partners' needs. The midwives guided parents into parenthood during postnatal care in a strategic manner by strengthening parents in their parental role. Postnatal care delivered by midwives is crucial for new parents and their babies.
Earthworm communities and their relation to above‐ground organic residues and water infiltration in perennial cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) and annual silage maize (Zea mays) energy plants
Authors: Wöhl Lena , Ruf Thorsten , Emmerling Christoph , Schrader Stefan
Published: April 2024

Perennial energy cropping systems are hailed as a sustainable way of mitigating and potentially adapting to climate change. As a result of the absence of tillage, soils cropped with perennials like cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum) promote abundant and functionally diverse earthworm communities. Hence, ecosystem service provision because of earthworm activity and functional redundancy, for example, litter decomposition, water infiltration and nutrient turnover, is considerably enhanced in perennial cropping systems. We studied the abundance and functional role of earthworms in non‐tilled perennial systems and reduced‐tilled annual systems to assess their relationship with the respective above‐ground organic residues and their implications for the soil water dynamic. We sampled earthworms and simultaneously measured the saturated infiltration rate for two consecutive years in cup plant and maize (Zea mays) fields. Furthermore, we sampled above‐ground litter each trimester in both systems and analysed the total C and N content and CN ratios. Our field investigations revealed significantly higher earthworm abundance, species diversity and richness in cup plant systems likely because of the absence of tillage and the formation of a litter layer. High abundances of juveniles in both maize and cup plant systems pointed to harsh habitat conditions likely because of temperature variations, waterlogging and bulk density. The respective field litter was of minor importance as a food source in both systems because of poor quality, but may positively affect the soil water balance in cup plant systems. Earthworm populations in maize may have been supported by organic fertilizer while earthworm populations in cup plants may have additionally benefitted from the extensive root network and a higher on‐site plant diversity. Reduced tillage regimes in maize systems may have enhanced saturated infiltration rates. A direct link between earthworms and infiltration was not validated, but may not be excluded in the future, as earthworm populations may develop slowly because of adverse habitat conditions. Our results show that perennials support abundant and diverse earthworm populations and indicate the importance of functional redundancy and the diversity of food sources. The combination of both earthworm abundance and perennial cropping systems is capable of increasing on‐site ecosystem stability and supporting adaptation to climate change by increasing functional redundancy and, ultimately, providing ecosystem services. The noticeable occurrence of the latter, however, may be delayed because of the slow establishment of earthworm communities and delayed build‐up of ecosystems stability. Hence, a transitional phase is inevitable to reap the benefits of perennial energy cropping systems and must be accounted for.
English in Sweden: Functions, features and debates
Authors: Mežek Špela
Published: April 2024

English has for a long time had a strong position in the Swedish sociolinguistic context. English is ubiquitous in the contemporary Swedish public sphere, and good knowledge of English can be found in all sections of society. Far from only being used as a lingua franca for international communication, English is today also pervasively used in domains of business, higher education and academia, as well as in the media and for entertainment purposes. This growing presence of English in Sweden has led to language debates about the status and the role of English in Sweden and concerns of whether English is a threat to Swedish. This article discusses the status and the manifold functions of English in Sweden and describes the uses and features of English in the Swedish context. It concludes with a discussion of the current debates on the uses and the role of English in Sweden.
Assessment of Left Lung Remodeling With Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Murine Model Following Exposure to Douglas Fir Smoke
Authors: Matz Jacqueline , Gonzalez Mireia Perera , Niedbalski Peter , Kim Hannah , Chen Ye , Sebastiani Paola , Gollner Michael J. , Bellini Chiara , Oakes Jessica M.
Published: April 2024

Wildland firefighters (WLFFs) experience lung function decline due to occupational exposure to fire smoke. WLFFs typically do not wear respiratory personal protective equipment, and if they do, it is a simple bandana, which is not effective at filtering smoke. To pinpoint the biological underpinnings of abnormal respiratory function following 3–7 years of WLFF service, we exposed mice to Douglas fir smoke (DFS) over 8 weeks. Following exposure, we assessed changes in lung structure through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and histological analysis, which was supported by immunohistochemistry staining. With MRI, we found that the signal decay time, T2*, from ultrashort echo time (UTE) images was significantly shorter in mice exposed to DFS compared to air controls. In addition, the variation in T2* was more heterogeneously distributed throughout the left lung in DFS-exposed mice, compared to air controls. As confirmed by histological analysis, shorter T2* was caused by larger parenchyma airspace sizes and not fibrotic remodeling. Destruction of the alveolar spaces was likely due to inflammation, as measured by an influx of CD68+ macrophages and destruction due to enhanced neutrophil elastase. In addition, measurements of airspace dimensions from histology were more heterogeneously distributed throughout the lung, corroborating the enhanced relative dispersion of T2*. Findings from this study suggest that the decline in lung function observed in WLFFs may be due to emphysema-like changes in the lung, which can be quantified with MRI.
Monitoring for Actinide Neutron Emissions From Spent Nuclear Fuel Under Extreme Gamma Fields Using Centrifugally Tensioned Metastable Fluid Detector Sensor Technology
Authors: Harabagiu C. , Taleyarkhan R. P.
Published: April 2024

This paper presents outcomes from research studies conducted independently at Purdue University as part of a collaborative project with the staff of Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). Research work focused on assessments for meeting the challenge of monitoring actinide content in spent nuclear fuel (SNF) via characteristic neutron emissions [from spontaneous fission and (α,n) reactions] using the centrifugally tensioned metastable fluid detector (CTMFD) sensor technology using an inert organic decafluoropentane (DFP)(C5H2F10) sensing fluid. Traditional detectors readily saturate and/or cannot monitor neutron emissions under the expected 1012:1 gamma to neutron radiation environment. A challenge problem was posed to examine if a CTMFD could operate reliably over 1 h for conducting neutron spectroscopy at a 1 m standoff from a 30-y cooled SNF, in a ∼1012:1 gamma:neutron intensity environment resulting in a 150 Gy (15 kRad) accumulated dose for the CTMFD. The impacts on reliable operability were studied separately under expected gamma radiation energy and intensity for possible effects of: (i) radiolysis in the CTMFD sensing fluid from absorbed (<1.5 MeV) gamma radiation; (ii) photoneutron contamination signals from < 3 MeV high energy gamma photons interacting with the sensing fluid; and, (iii) malfunction of CTMFD component electronics from the absorbed gamma radiation. A Co-60 gamma irradiator was used for dose accumulation in the CTMFD electronic components and sensing fluids. A 14 MeV DT accelerator was used with a NaCl target to produce 3–4 MeV photons from activated 37S (via. neutron absorption in 37Cl) at SNF-commensurate intensities from SNF at 1-m standoff. Our examinations revealed the absence of any significant impact on CTMFD performance for meeting and exceeding the challenge problem metric. That is, we validated for no discernible impact of: 3–4 MeV gamma-produced photoneutrons when combined with a fission neutron source and radiolysis in the DFP sensing fluid through a 150 Gy absorbed dose. Past research results at Purdue University have validated for survivability of the key electronic components for absorbed gamma doses above the targeted 150 Gy level. This paper also provides extended evidence for survivability (from radiolysis) at higher gamma doses through 750 Gy with a borated DFP-sensing fluid formulation-based CTMFD.
Siderophore-mediated iron acquisition by
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Chakravorty Somnath , Yang Taihao , Russo Thomas A. , Newton Salete M. , Klebba Phillip E.
Published: April 2024

Microbes synthesize and secrete siderophores, that bind and solubilize precipitated or otherwise unavailable iron in their microenvironments. Gram (−) bacterial TonB-dependent outer membrane receptors capture the resulting ferric siderophores to begin the uptake process. From their similarity to
fepA,
the structural gene for the
Escherichia coli
ferric enterobactin (FeEnt) receptor, we identified four homologous genes in the human and animal ESKAPE pathogen
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(strain Kp52.145). One locus encodes IroN (locus
0027
on plasmid pII), and three other loci encode other FepA orthologs/paralogs (chromosomal loci
1658, 2380,
and
4984
). Based on the crystal structure of
E. coli
FepA (1FEP), we modeled the tertiary structures of the
K. pneumoniae
FepA homologs and genetically engineered individual Cys substitutions in their predicted surface loops. We subjected bacteria expressing the Cys mutant proteins to modification with extrinsic fluorescein maleimide (FM) and used the resulting fluorescently labeled cells to spectroscopically monitor the binding and transport of catecholate ferric siderophores by the four different receptors. The FM-modified FepA homologs were nanosensors that defined the ferric catecholate uptake pathways in pathogenic strains of
K. pneumoniae
. In Kp52.145, loci
1658
and
4984
encoded receptors that primarily recognized and transported FeEnt; locus
0027
produced a receptor that principally bound and transported FeEnt and glucosylated FeEnt (FeGEnt); locus 2380 encoded a protein that bound ferric catecholate compounds but did not detectably transport them. The sensors also characterized the uptake of iron complexes, including FeGEnt, by the hypervirulent, hypermucoviscous
K. pneumoniae
strain hvKp1.

IMPORTANCE

Both commensal and pathogenic bacteria produce small organic chelators, called siderophores, that avidly bind iron and increase its bioavailability.
Klebsiella pneumoniae
variably produces four siderophores that antagonize host iron sequestration: enterobactin, glucosylated enterobactin (also termed salmochelin), aerobactin, and yersiniabactin, which promote colonization of different host tissues. Abundant evidence links bacterial iron acquisition to virulence and infectious diseases. The data we report explain the recognition and transport of ferric catecholates and other siderophores, which are crucial to iron acquisition by
K. pneumoniae
.
Secreted phospholipase PLA2G2E contributes to regulation of T cell immune response against influenza virus infection
Authors: Bu Hemeng , Zhang Shengnan , Li Pingchao , Liu Zijian , Liu Yichu , Li Zhixia , Liu Xinglong , Wang Zhi , Feng Liqiang , Chen Ling , Qu Linbing
Published: April 2024

The involvement of secreted phospholipase A2s in respiratory diseases, such as asthma and respiratory viral infections, is well-established. However, the specific role of secreted phospholipase A2 group IIE (PLA2G2E) during influenza virus infection remains unexplored. Here, we investigated the role of PLA2G2E during H1N1 influenza virus infection using a targeted mouse model lacking
Pla2g2e
gene (
Pla2g2e
-/-
). Our findings demonstrated that
Pla2g2e
-/-
mice had significantly lower survival rates and higher viral loads in lungs compared to wild-type mice following influenza virus infection. While
Pla2g2e
-/-
mice displayed comparable innate and humoral immune responses to influenza virus challenge, the animals showed impaired influenza-specific cellular immunity and reduced T cell-mediated cytotoxicity. This indicates that PLA2G2E is involved in regulating specific T cell responses during influenza virus infection. Furthermore, transgenic mice expressing the human
PLA2G2E
gene exhibited resistance to influenza virus infection along with enhanced influenza-specific cellular immunity and T cell-mediated cytotoxicity.
Pla2g2e
deficiency resulted in perturbation of lipid mediators in the lung and T cells, potentially contributing to its impact on the anti-influenza immune response. Taken together, these findings suggest that targeting
PLA2G2E
could hold potential as a therapeutic strategy for managing influenza virus infections.

IMPORTANCE

The influenza virus is a highly transmissible respiratory pathogen that continues to pose a significant public health concern. It effectively evades humoral immune protection conferred by vaccines and natural infection due to its continuous viral evolution through the genetic processes of antigenic drift and shift. Recognition of conserved non-mutable viral epitopes by T cells may provide broad immunity against influenza virus. In this study, we have demonstrated that phospholipase A2 group IIE (PLA2G2E) plays a crucial role in protecting against influenza virus infection through the regulation of T cell responses, while not affecting innate and humoral immune responses. Targeting PLA2G2E could therefore represent a potential therapeutic strategy for managing influenza virus infection.