bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete replacement of soybean meal with black soldier fly larvae meal in feeding program for broiler chickens from placement through to 49 days of age: impact on gastrointestinal, breast, skeletal, plasma, and litter attributes
Authors: Facey Hannah , Kithama Munene , Mohammadigheisar Mohsen , Barbut Shai , Huber Lee-Anne , Shoveller Anna K. , Kiarie Elijah G.
Published: July 2024

We previously reported that high levels (≥50%) of black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) reduced growth and altered organs morphology in broiler chickens. Herein we further examined gastrointestinal, breast, bone, plasma, and litter attributes in broiler chickens fed partial to complete replacement of soybean meal (SBM) with BSFLM. A total of 1152 day-old Ross × Ross 708 male chicks ( n = 8) were allocated to 48 pens and assigned one of six diets: a basal corn-SBM diet (0BSFLM), four diets in which SBM in 0BSFLM was replaced with BSFLM at 12.5%, 25%, 50%, and 100% (12.5BSFLM, 25BSFLM, 50BSFLM, and 100BSFLM) and a final diet (0 + AGP) in which 0BSFLM was fed with coccidiostat and antibiotic. Birds were bled for plasma and necropsied for samples. Litter samples were collected on days 45 to 47. Breast weight, woody breast, and hardness scores and tibia morphometry reduced linearly in response to BSFLM inclusion ( P < 0.001). BSFLM linearly increased plasma Lys, Met, Thr, uric acid, creatine kinase and decreased Arg and potassium ( P < 0.05). Litter ammonium nitrogen and potassium decreased linearly in response to BSFLM ( P < 0.001). In conclusion, the data suggested physiological and metabolic inefficiencies in broiler chickens fed isocaloric and isonitrogenous diets with ≥50% BSFLM replacement of SBM.
Can Hubble tension be eased by invoking a finite range for gravity?
Authors: Rebecca Louise , Sivaram C. , Sebastian Dominic , Arun Kenath
Published: July 2024

The estimation of the Hubble constant in the past few decades has increasingly become more accurate with the advancement of new techniques. However, its value seems to depend on the epoch at which the measurements are made. The Planck estimate of the Hubble constant from the observations of the cosmic microwave background radiation in the early universe is about [Formula: see text], whereas that obtained from the distance indicators at the current epoch is [Formula: see text]. This discrepancy between the two groups of measurement is termed as the Hubble tension which has gained much attention in the past few decades with growing significance as measurements from both, the early and the late universe, studies continue to produce results with increasing precision. In this work, we propose a modification to gravity by considering a finite range gravitational field as an alternate explanation for this discrepancy in the value of the Hubble constant.
MULTIFRACTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE MITOCHONDRIAL BK CHANNEL ACTIVITY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE CHANNEL-ACTIVATING FLAVONOIDS
Authors: TRYBEK PAULINA , MACHURA ŁUKASZ , BEDNARCZYK PIOTR , COJG URSZULA , PODLEŚNY PATRYCJA , SZUMAŁA KAMILA , WAWRZKIEWICZ-JAŁOWIECKA AGATA
Published: July 2024

Over the years, the (multi)fractal nature of signals describing the activity of ion channels has been observed both at the level of single-channel currents and the temporal scaling of the corresponding sojourns in conducting and non-conducting states. The recognized nonlinear and self-similar properties were interpreted regarding the underlying channel gating machinery. Nevertheless, the literature lacks in (multi)fractal description of the biochemical stimulation of ion channels. Therefore, in this work, we provide a multifractal description of the effects exerted by two different flavonoids — naringenin (Nar) and quercetin (Que) — being the regulators of the large-conductance voltage- and Ca[Formula: see text]-activated K[Formula: see text] channels from the inner mitochondrial membrane (mitoBK). Toward this aim, the focus-based multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MFDFA) was applied to the patch-clamp data obtained in the presence of Nar and Que in micromolar concentrations and the corresponding controls. Our results show that mitoBK channel activity has well-pronounced multifractal characteristics and long-range memory (measured by the generalized Hurst exponent) under biochemical stimulation by Nar and Que and in the absence of these substances. The spectral properties significantly change after the randomization of the analyzed series. Therefore, multifractality is an inherent feature of the mitoBK channel currents, which stems from their statistical distribution and temporal organization. Both flavonoids have similar structures and exert channel-activating effects, but they differently affect the parameters of the multifractal spectra of the corresponding patch-clamp signals. Coordination of Que leads to more prominent changes in signal complexity than Nar at membrane hyper- and depolarization. It suggests that this flavonoid has a stronger impact on the conformational dynamics of the mitoBK channels in comparison with naringenin.
Cathode Electrochemical Behavior of Aluminum Electrolysis in NaF-NaCl Based Molten Salt
Authors: Tao Shao-Hu , Zhang Feng-Qi , Peng Jian-Ping , Ma Rui-Ting , Zhang Wu
Published: July 2024

Selective and efficient electrochemical analytical methods for the depositing process of metal aluminum are significant and necessary. The electrochemical measurement methods are based on the means of cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry and constant potential electrolysis. The above methods are used to analyze the depositing process of metal aluminum in NaF-NaCl-Al2O3 and NaF-NaCl-NaAlO2 molten salt. Cyclic voltammetry analysis showed that Al3+ ions were reduced to metal aluminum through two consecutive steps. From the analysis of square wave voltammetry curve, the main reaction on the electrode was the reduction of metal sodium in the NaF-NaCl system, and the electron transfer number of the reaction was 0.80. With the addition of NaAlO2 and Al2O3 in the electrolyte, the electron transfer numbers of the two reduction steps were about 3.0. The process of reduction of Al3+ ions to aluminum was further proved by the analysis of the electrolysis curve at constant potential. The diffusion rate of Al3+ions and the rate of Al3+ reduction reaction increased with the addition of NaAlO2 and Al2O3 and the change of the potential.
Deciphering taxonomic and functional patterns of microbial communities associated with the tiger tail seahorse (Hippocampus comes)
Authors: Padasas-Adalla Chinee Surita , Ortega-Kindica Rose Chinly Mae , Dalayap Rodelyn , Martinez Joey Genevieve , Amparado Olive , Moneva Carlo Stephen , Lomelí-Ortega Carlos O. , Tabugo Sharon Rose , Balcázar José Luis
Published: July 2024

To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first comprehensive examination of the taxonomic and functional patterns of the skin and gut microbiome in the tiger tail seahorse. These findings have the potential to significantly enhance our understanding of the seahorse-associated microbiome, thereby contributing to the prediction and control of bacterial infections in seahorses, which are a leading cause of high mass mortality rates in seahorse aquaculture and other fish species.
Pressure Shift Freezing: An Alternate Method of Freezing for Meat and Marine Products and Their Quality Characteristics
Authors: Subhashini M. , C Subith. , Meenatchi R. , Radhakrishnan Mahendran
Published: July 2024

The comprehensive demand for meat and seafood in the global market has raised a severe need for processing and preservation strategies to conserve their inherent quality. It is widely perceived that the present conventional meat production system engages freezing as the primary preservation technique, and reports have documented several challenges associated with existing freezing approaches, like the creation of ice crystals during phase transition, which causes deterioration of the tissue membrane, destruction of the cell wall, and textural damage to the foods. Thus, interest in alternative food freezing methodologies, such as pressure shift freezing (PSF), has emerged as a matter of immense approaches and commercial interest owing to its massive benefits. This review delivers the fundamentals of PSF, including the mechanisms of ice crystal formation and microbial inactivation. Further, this review briefly states the applications of PSF in meat processing and preservation by compiling recent works. This provides insight into emerging trends and research requirements. High‐pressure freezing creates rapid and homogenous ice crystal development all over the food sample. Moreover, the impact of pressure on the quality aspect of PSF‐treated food was discussed. Also, the changes in functional characteristics of PSF‐treated foods like colour, texture, and WHC have been highlighted. Finally, aspects that can be further notably analysed, the obstruction that confines the implementation of this innovation on a large scale, and opportunities have been presented.
Hodgkin Lymphoma Presenting as Cardiac Tamponade in a Young Female
Authors: Kaiafa Georgia , Daios Stylianos , Bountola Stavroula , Koletsa Triantafyllia , Makris Michail , Chatzikosma Charikleia , Loukousia Antonia , Perifanis Vasileios , Ziakas Antonios , Savopoulos Christos
Published: July 2024

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is an uncommon malignancy that is characterized by Hodgkin or Reed–Sternberg cells. Cardiac implications of HL remain one of the least investigated subjects. There are few case reports in the literature of cardiac tamponade in HL patients. We describe a case of a 21‐year‐old female patient who presented with cardiac tamponade as an initial presentation of HL. Any pericardial effusion significant for tamponade requires immediate drainage and fluid analysis for thorough investigation. Prompt identification and timely intervention are crucial in effectively addressing these complex situations. Therefore, clinicians should maintain heightened awareness in such cases.
Enhancing Resilience and Efficiency in Power System: A Five‐Level Dynamic Planning Model
Authors: Rezaei Mahnaz , Tolou Askari Mohammad , Amirahmadi Meysam , Ghods Vahid
Published: July 2024

Researchers consider the planning of power systems to be of utmost importance, and due to its significant budget, further studies on the resilience of energy systems are necessary. Therefore, a five‐level dynamic model is developed to improve resilience to natural disaster events. The initial level focuses on expansion planning and system uncertainties, specifically examining the utilization of wind turbines in the proposed energy hub to incorporate the thermal energy market together with demand response program. Its purposes are to improve resilience, minimize input transmission costs, and minimize operating costs. The second level is related to the corrective actions that the system operator should take after the accident for network reconfiguration. The earthquake‐induced and attack events, considering unknown events, are modeled and assessed in the third level. Generation expansion planning is performed at the fourth level. As with the whole model, this level tries to improve resilience. The fifth level deals with transmission expansion planning to boost resilience, and the capability of transmission switching is regarded as a low‐cost correction factor. The first level optimizes energy hub according to the differential evolutionary algorithm, but the next four levels employ a robust symphony orchestra search algorithm. Finally, the dynamic planning model proposed here is employed on a Garvers 6‐bus system and then on a 400 kV 52‐bus Iranian power grid. According to the findings, the proposed planning model demonstrates a reduction in capital costs of transmission switches by up to 26%. Also, the expected profit of the generation units increases by as much as 3.75%. Accordingly, the results show that the model is both feasible and effective.
A Note on Fractional Gabor Systems in L2(ℝ)
Authors: Jain Dolly , Kumari Mina , Kumari Sandeep
Published: July 2024

In this article, fractional Gabor frames in L2(ℝ) are defined and studied. Also, a finite linear combination of fractional Gabor frames for L2(ℝ) is discussed. It is proved that under certain conditions, a finite linear combination of fractional Gabor frames is a fractional Gabor frame for L2(ℝ). Finally, the stability of fractional Gabor frames is discussed, and some results for the stability of fractional Gabor frames are proved.
Effect of Edible Bird’s Nest on Protecting against Cognitive Deficit and Ameliorating Beta‐Amyloid in Hippocampal Rats’ Model of Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Sirinupong Nualpun , Chansuwan Worapanit , Kaewkaen Pratchaya
Published: July 2024

Cerebral ischemia has been identified as the primary cause of global mortality, but there is currently no effective therapy for treating this condition. Consequently, the search for novel neuroprotective agents that can guard against stroke remains essential. Recent research has demonstrated the importance of alternative treatments in the pathology of cerebral ischemia leading to vascular dementia. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of neurocognitive behavior and beta‐amyloid markers in terms of the neuroprotective effects of Edible Bird’s Nest (EBN). Male adult Wistar rats were orally administered EBN at concentrations of 10, 50, and 100 mg/kg for 2 weeks prior to and 3 weeks after middle cerebral artery occlusion surgery to mimic vascular dementia. The rodents were then classified based on their neurological score, beta‐amyloid accumulation, volume of cerebral infarction, and acetylcholinesterase activity. We assessed the animals’ spatial memory and administered the Morris water maze and radial arm maze tests. We found that EBN substantially decreased beta‐amyloid in the hippocampus, decreased acetylcholinesterase activity, and enhanced the animals’ neurological scores and spatial memory. We conclude that EBN contains potential substances that promote learning and memory pathways. However, additional research is still necessary to confirm these findings.
Endoscopic Vitrectomy Combined with 3D Heads‐Up Viewing System in Treating Traumatic Ocular Injury
Authors: Cheng Yuan-Shao , Hsiao Chung-Hao , Hsia Wei-Ping , Chen Hung-Ju , Chang Chia-Jen
Published: July 2024

Purpose. To investigate effects and complications of endoscopic vitrectomy combined with 3D heads‐up viewing system in treating traumatic ocular injury. Patients and Methods. This is a retrospective interventional case series in a tertiary referral center in Taiwan, and we included patients of traumatic ocular injury, and they underwent endoscopic vitrectomy combined with a 3D heads‐up viewing system. Results. Fourteen eyes of traumatic globe injury from 14 patients were studied over a 30‐month period. Preoperative VA ranged from no light perception (NLP) to 6/6. Postoperative visual acuity improved in 11 of the 14 eyes (79%). Until 6 months after surgery, all eyes had attached retina. The median logMAR BCVA was 2.4 at the first visit and 1.19 at the last visit (p = 0.0028). No subject suffered from retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, or other severe complications. Conclusions. Vitrectomy using endoscopy combined with 3D heads‐up viewing system allowed early evaluation and intervention in traumatic ocular injuries. Most of our cases showed both anatomical and visual acuity improvements.
Decellularisation and Characterisation of Porcine Pleura as Bioscaffolds in Tissue Engineering
Authors: Vikranth Thirapurasundari , Dale Tina , Forsyth Nicholas R.
Published: July 2024

Persistent air leaks caused by thoracic surgery, physical trauma, or spontaneous pneumothoraces are a cause of patient morbidity with need for extended chest tube durations and surgical interventions. Current treatment measures involve mechanical closure of air leaks in the compromised pleura. Organ and membrane decellularisation offers a broad range of biomimetic scaffolds of allogeneic and xenogeneic origins, exhibiting innate tissue‐specific characteristics. We explored a physicochemical method for decellularising porcine pleural membranes (PPM) as potential tissue‐engineered surrogates for lung tissue repair. Decellularised PPM (dPPM) was characterised with histology, quantitative assays, mechanical testing, and sterility evaluation. Cytotoxicity and recellularisation assays assessed biocompatibility of decellularised PPM (dPPM). Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining showed an evident reduction in stained nuclei in the dPPM, confirmed with nuclear staining and analysis ( ∗∗∗∗p < 0.0001). Sulphated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG) and collagen histology demonstrated minimal disruption to the gross structural assembly of core extracellular matrix (ECM) in dPPM. Confocal imaging demonstrated realignment of ECM fibres in dPPM against native control. Quantitative analysis defined a significant change in the angular distribution ( ∗∗∗∗p < 0.0001) and coherence ( ∗∗∗p < 0.001) of fibre orientations in dPPM versus native ECM. DNA quantification indicated ≥85% reduction in native nuclear dsDNA in dPPM ( ∗∗p < 0.01). Collagen and sGAG quantification indicated reductions of both ( ∗∗p < 0.01). dPPM displayed increased membrane thickness ( ∗∗∗p < 0.001). However, Young’s modulus (459.67 ± 10.36 kPa) and ultimate tensile strength (4036.22 ± 155.1 kPa) of dPPM were comparable with those of native controls at (465.82 ± 10.51 kPa) and (3912.9 ± 247.42 kPa), respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity and scaffold biocompatibility assays demonstrated robust human mesothelial cell line (MeT‐5A) attachment and viability. DNA quantification in reseeded dPPM with MeT‐5A cells exhibited significant increase in DNA content at day 7 ( ∗∗p < 0.01) and day 15 ( ∗∗∗∗p < 0.0001) against unseeded dPPM. Here, we define a decellularisation protocol for porcine pleura that represents a step forward in their potential tissue engineering applications as bioscaffolds.
Novel Therapies in Cancer: Trials and Tribulations
Authors: Waqar Saiama N. , Govindan Ramaswamy
Published: July 2024

Clinical trials are the backbone for advancing therapeutic options for patients diagnosed with cancer. Yet only 7.1% of patients with cancer participate in clinical trials in the United States. In this article, we review some of the reasons for poor accrual and discuss potential solutions.

See related article by van Berge Henegouwen et al., p. 3937
ROR2 Regulates Cellular Plasticity in Pancreatic Neoplasia and Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Benitz Simone , Steep Alec , Nasser Malak M. , Preall Jonathan , Mahajan Ujjwal Mukund , McQuithey Holly , Loveless Ian , Davis Erick T. , Wen Hui-Ju , Long Daniel W. , Metzler Thomas , Zwernik Samuel , Louw Michaela , Rempinski Donald , Salas-Escabillas Daniel J. , Brender Sydney M. , Song Linghao , Huang Ling , Theisen Brian K. , Zhang Zhenyu , Steele Nina G. , Regel Ivonne , Bednar Filip , Crawford Howard C.
Published: July 2024

Cellular plasticity is a hallmark of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) starting from the conversion of normal cells into precancerous lesions, to the progression of carcinoma subtypes associated with aggressiveness and therapeutic response. We discovered that normal acinar cell differentiation, maintained by the transcription factor PDX1, suppresses a broad gastric cell identity that is maintained in metaplasia, neoplasia, and the classical subtype of PDAC in a mouse and human. We identified the receptor tyrosine kinase ROR2 as marker of a gastric metaplasia-like identity in pancreas neoplasms. Ablation of Ror2 in a mouse model of pancreatic tumorigenesis promoted a switch to a gastric pit cell identity that largely persisted through progression to the classical subtype of PDAC. In both human and mouse pancreatic cancer, ROR2 activity continued to antagonize the gastric pit cell identity, strongly promoting an epithelial to mesenchymal transition, conferring resistance to KRAS inhibition, and vulnerability to AKT inhibition.

Significance: We discovered the receptor tyrosine kinase ROR2 as an important regulator of cellular identity in pancreatic precancerous lesions and pancreatic cancer. ROR2 drives an aggressive PDAC phenotype and confers resistance to KRAS inhibitors, suggesting that targeting ROR2 will enhance sensitivity to this new generation of targeted therapies.

See related commentary by Marasco and Misale, p. 2018
A Classical Epithelial State Drives Acute Resistance to KRAS Inhibition in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Singhal Anupriya , Styers Hannah C. , Rub Jonathan , Li Zhuxuan , Torborg Stefan R. , Kim Jung Yun , Grbovic-Huezo Olivera , Feng Huijin , Tarcan Zeynep Cagla , Sahin Ozkan Hulya , Hallin Jill , Basturk Olca , Yaeger Rona , Christensen James G. , Betel Doron , Yan Yan , Chio Iok In Christine , de Stanchina Elisa , Tammela Tuomas
Published: July 2024

Intratumoral heterogeneity in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a balance between basal and classical epithelial cancer cell states, with basal dominance associating with chemoresistance and a dismal prognosis. Targeting oncogenic KRAS, the primary driver of pancreatic cancer, shows early promise in clinical trials, but efficacy is limited by acquired resistance. Using genetically engineered mouse models and patient-derived xenografts, we find that basal PDAC cells are highly sensitive to KRAS inhibitors. Employing fluorescent and bioluminescent reporter systems, we longitudinally track cell-state dynamics in vivo and reveal a rapid, KRAS inhibitor–induced enrichment of the classical state. Lineage tracing uncovers that these enriched classical PDAC cells are a reservoir for disease relapse. Genetic or chemotherapy-mediated ablation of the classical cell state is synergistic with KRAS inhibition, providing a preclinical proof of concept for this therapeutic strategy. Our findings motivate combining classical state–directed therapies with KRAS inhibitors to deepen responses and counteract resistance in pancreatic cancer.

Significance: KRAS inhibitors hold promise in pancreatic cancer, but responses are limited by acquired resistance. We find that a classical epithelial cancer cell state is acutely resistant to KRAS inhibition and serves as a reservoir for disease relapse. Targeting the classical state alongside KRAS inhibition deepens responses, revealing a potent therapeutic strategy.

See related commentary by Marasco and Misale, p. 2018
Table S1 from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

Simulated step function metrics. Log-likelihood and C-indexes for the test folds of a simulated step function dataset for either a Cox model, a FCN neural network, and a neural network comprised of a single neuron with sigmoid activation.
Table 2 from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

TCGA data metrics
Table 1 from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

Simulated data metrics
Figure S3 from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

BPC fits. Cox and neural net model fits were mean normalized and averaged over 10 K-folds. TMB distributions shown as rug plots.
Figure 2 from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

Cutoff analysis with simulated data. Fifteen simulated survival datasets were generated for either a monotonic relationship with TMB (A) or a non-monotonic relationship (C). B, shows the hazard ratios and associated log-likelihood ratio tests and associated cutoffs of searching for an optimal cutoff or an optimal two cutoffs for a monotonic relationship, while (D) shows the results with non-monotonic data. In (A and C), the TMB distribution is shown as a rug plot with the true risks shown as a scatterplot. In (B and D), each row represents a different simulated dataset.
Data from Characterization of Non-Monotonic Relationships between Tumor Mutational Burden and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Anaya Jordan , Kung Julia , Baras Alexander S.
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Potential clinical biomarkers are often assessed with Cox regressions or their ability to differentiate two groups of patients based on a single cutoff. However, both of these approaches assume a monotonic relationship between the potential biomarker and survival. Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is currently being studied as a predictive biomarker for immunotherapy, and a single cutoff is often used to divide patients. In this study, we introduce a two-cutoff approach that allows splitting of patients when a non-monotonic relationship is present and explore the use of neural networks to model more complex relationships of TMB to outcome data. Using real-world data, we find that while in most cases the true relationship between TMB and survival appears monotonic, that is not always the case and researchers should be made aware of this possibility.
Significance:
When a non-monotonic relationship to survival is present it is not possible to divide patients by a single value of a predictor. Neural networks allow for complex transformations and can be used to correctly split patients when a non-monotonic relationship is present.
Neomensularia meridionalis sp. nov. (Hymenochaetales, Basidiomycota), a New Species from South America
Authors: BITTENCOURT FELIPE , ALVES-SILVA GENIVALDO , GÓES-NETO ARISTÓTELES , DRECHSLER-SANTOS ELISANDRO RICARDO
Published: July 2024

During field surveys in the Atlantic Forest of Southern Brazil, specimens of a poroid and pileate species of Hymenochaetaceae were found and are described as a new species, Neomensularia meridionalis. This species is morphologically and phylogenetically (ITS and nLSU) close to Neomensularia crocitincta, distributed in Central America, Cuba and Jamaica, but can be distinguished by its larger basidiomata, a duplex context featuring a distinct black line, and golden yellow basidiospores. Additionally, an updated identification key for Neomensularia species worldwide is provided.
Hechtia marabascoensis (Hechtioideae; Bromeliaceae), a novelty from Colima and Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ-CÁRDENAS RODRIGO ALEJANDRO , FLORES-ARGÜELLES ALEJANDRA , ESPEJO-SERNA ADOLFO , LÓPEZ-FERRARI ANA ROSA , SIEKKINEN ANDREW
Published: July 2024

Recent botanical explorations carried out in the states of Colima and Jalisco, Mexico, led to the discovery of a novelty of Bromeliaceae: Hechtia marabascoensis which is described and illustrated. The proposed taxon is compared to H. chamelensis, H. pacifica, and H. reticulata, species with the most similarities. A morphological description, images, and a distribution map of the new species are included, as well as an identification key and a list of examined specimens of all Hechtia species known to date from the states of Colima and Jalisco.
Evaluation of vaccine candidates against Rhodococcus equi in BALB/c mice infection model: cellular and humoral immune responses
Authors: Liu Lu , Cai Peng , Gu Weifang , Duan Xingxun , Gao Shiwen , Ma Xuelian , Ma Yuhui , Ma Siyuan , Li Guoqing , Wang Xiangyu , Cai Kuojun , Wang Yanfeng , Cai Tao , Zhao Hongqiong
Published: July 2024

Rhodococcus equi (R. equi) is a zoonotic opportunistic pathogen that mainly causes fatal lung and extrapulmonary abscesses in foals and immunocompromised individuals. To date, no commercial vaccine against R. equi exists. We previously screened all potential vaccine candidates from the complete genome of R. equi using a reverse vaccinology approach. Five of these candidates, namely ABC transporter substrate-binding protein (ABC transporter), penicillin-binding protein 2 (PBD2), NlpC/P60 family protein (NlpC/P60), esterase family protein (Esterase), and M23 family metallopeptidase (M23) were selected for the evaluation of immunogenicity and immunoprotective effects in BALB/c mice model challenged with R. equi. The results showed that all five vaccine candidate-immunized mice experienced a significant increase in spleen antigen-specific IFN-γ- and TNF-α-positive CD4 + and CD8 + T lymphocytes and generated robust Th1- and Th2-type immune responses and antibody responses. Two weeks after the R. equi challenge, immunization with the five vaccine candidates reduced the bacterial load in the lungs and improved the pathological damage to the lungs and livers compared with those in the control group. NlpC/P60, Esterase, and M23 were more effective than the ABC transporter and PBD2 in inducing protective immunity against R. equi challenge in mice. In addition, these vaccine candidates have the potential to induce T lymphocyte memory immune responses in mice. In summary, these antigens are effective candidates for the development of protective vaccines against R. equi. The R. equi antigen library has been expanded and provides new ideas for the development of multivalent vaccines.
Highly active repeat-mediated recombination in the mitogenome of the aquatic grass Hygroryza aristata
Authors: Wang Huijun , Wu Zhigang , Li Tao , Zhao Jindong
Published: July 2024

Background

Floating bamboo (Hygroryza aristata) is an endangered species with a narrow native distribution and is renowned for its unique aesthetic qualities, which holds significant ecological and ornamental value. However, the lack of genetic information research, with only one complete plastome available, significantly hampers conservation efforts and further research for this species.

Results

In this research, we sequenced and assembled the organelle genomes of floating bamboo, including the mitogenome (587,847 bp) and plastome (135,675 bp). The mitogenome can recombine into various configurations, which are mediated by 25 repeat pairs (13 SRs, 6 MRs, 1 LR, and 5 CRs). LR1 and SR5 are particularly notable as they have the ability to combine with other contigs, forming complex repeat units that facilitate further homologous recombination. The rate of homologous recombination varies significantly among species, yet there is still a pronounced positive correlation observed between the length of these repeat pairs and the rate of recombination they mediate. The mitogenome integrates seven intact protein-coding genes from the chloroplast. The codon usage patterns in both organelles are similar, with a noticeable bias towards C and T on the third codon. The gene map of Poales shows the entire loss of rpl6, succinate dehydrogenase subunits (sdh3 and sdh4). Additionally, the BOP clade retained more variable genes compared to the PACMAD clade.

Conclusions

We provided a high-quality and well-annotated mitogenome for floating bamboo and demonstrated the presence of diverse configurations. Our study has revealed the correlation between repeat length and their corresponding recombination rate despite variations among species. Although the mitogenome can potentially exist in the form of a unicircular in vivo, this occurrence is rare and may not be stable.
Effects of a co-bacterial agent on the growth, disease control, and quality of ginseng based on rhizosphere microbial diversity
Authors: Li Xinyue , Liu Qun , Gao Yugang , Zang Pu , Zheng Tong
Published: July 2024

Background

The ginseng endophyte Paenibacillus polymyxa Pp-7250 (Pp-7250) has multifaceted roles such as preventing ginseng diseases, promoting growth, increasing ginsenoside accumulation, and degrading pesticide residues, however, these effects still have room for improvements. Composite fungicides are an effective means to improve the biocontrol effect of fungicides, but the effect of Pp-7250 in combination with its symbiotic bacteria on ginseng needs to be further investigated, and its mechanism of action has not been elucidated. In this study, a series of experiments was conducted to elucidate the effect of Paenibacillus polymyxa and Bacillus cereus co-bacterial agent on the yield and quality of understory ginseng, and to investigate their mechanism of action.

Results

The results indicated that P. polymyxa and B. cereus co-bacterial agent (PB) treatment improved ginseng yield, ginsenoside accumulation, disease prevention, and pesticide degradation. The mechanism is that PB treatment increased the abundance of beneficial microorganisms, including Rhodanobacter, Pseudolabrys, Gemmatimonas, Bacillus, Paenibacillus, Cortinarius, Russula, Paecilomyces, and Trechispora, and decreased the abundance of pathogenic microorganisms, including Ellin6067, Acidibacter, Fusarium, Tetracladium, Alternaria, and Ilyonectria in ginseng rhizosphere soil. PB co-bacterial agents enhanced the function of microbial metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, biosynthesis of antibiotics, biosynthesis of amino acids, carbon fixation pathways in prokaryotes, DNA replication, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, and decreased the function of microbial plant pathogens and animal pathogens.

Conclusion

The combination of P. polymyxa and B. cereus may be a potential biocontrol agent to promote the resistance of ginseng to disease and improve the yield, quality, and pesticide degradation.
The application of varying amount of green manure combined with nitrogen fertilizer altered the soil bacterial community and rice yield in karst paddy areas
Authors: Zhong Juxin , Li Zhongyi , Tang Hongqin , Dong Wenbin , Wei Caihui , He Tieguang
Published: July 2024

Long-term application of green manure (GM) and nitrogen (N) fertilizers markedly improved soil fertility and boosted rice yield in ecologically fragile karst paddy fields. However, the precise response mechanisms of the soil bacterial community to varying amounts of green manure alone and in combination with N fertilizer in such environments remain poorly elucidated. In this study, we investigated the soil bacterial communities, keystone taxa, and their relationship with soil environmental variables across eight fertilization treatments. These treatments included group without N addition (N0M0, no N fertilizer and no GM; N0M22.5, 22.5 t/ha GM; N0M45, 45 t/ha GM, N0M67.5, 67.5 t/ha GM) and group with N addition (NM0, N fertilizer and no GM; NM22.5, N fertilizer and 22.5 t/ha GM; NM45, N fertilizer and 45 t/ha GM; NM67.5, N fertilizer and 67.5 t/ha GM). The results revealed that increasing green manure input significantly boosted rice yield by 15.51–22.08% and 21.84–35% in both the group without and with N addition, respectively, compared to N0M0 treatment. Moreover, with escalating green manure input, soil TN, AN, AK, and AP showed an increasing trend in the group without N addition. However, following the addition of N fertilizer, TN and AN content initially rose, followed by a decline due to the enhanced nutrient availability for rice. Furthermore, the application of a large amount of N fertilizer decreased the C: N ratio in the soil, resulting in significant changes in both the soil microbial community and its function. Particularly noteworthy was the transition of keystone taxa from their original roles as N-fixing and carbon-degrading groups (oligotrophs) to roles in carbon degradation (copiotrophs), nitrification, and denitrification. This shift in soil community and function might serve as a primary factor contributing to enhanced nutrient utilization efficiency in rice, thus significantly promoting rice yield.
Construction and validation of a nomogram for predicting survival in elderly patients with severe acute pancreatitis: a retrospective study from a tertiary center
Authors: Zhu Qingcheng , Lu Mingfeng , Ling Bingyu , Tan Dingyu , Wang Huihui
Published: July 2024

Purpose

There is a lack of adequate models specifically designed for elderly patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) to predict the risk of death. This study aimed to develop a nomogram for predicting the overall survival of SAP in elderly patients.

Methods

Elderly patients diagnosed with SAP between January 1, 2017 and December 31, 2022 were included in the study. Risk factors were identified through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. Subsequently, a novel nomogram model was developed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The predictive performance of the nomogram was evaluated using metrics such as the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

A total of 326 patients were included in the analysis, with 260 in the survival group and 66 in the deceased group. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that age, respiratory rate, arterial pH, total bilirubin, and calcium were independent prognostic factors for the survival of SAP patients. The nomogram demonstrated a performance comparable to sequential organ failure assessment (P = 0.065). Additionally, the calibration curve showed satisfactory predictive accuracy, and the DCA highlighted the clinical application value of the nomogram.

Conclusion

We have identified key demographic and laboratory parameters that are associated with the survival of elderly patients with SAP. These parameters have been utilized to create a precise and user-friendly nomogram, which could be an effective and valuable clinical tool for clinicians.
Multidisciplinary medication review during older patient hospitalization according to STOPP/START criteria reduces potentially inappropriate prescriptions: MoPIM cohort study
Authors: Ortonobes Sara , Herranz Susana , Lleal Marina , Sevilla-Sánchez Daniel , Jordana Rosa , Mascaró Oscar , Ferrández Olivia , de Jaime Elisabet , Estrada Rafael , Nazco Gloria Julia , Baré Marisa , Corral-Vazquez Celia , Roura-Poch Pere , Solà Núria , González Javier , Molist Núria , Espaulella Mariona , Sala Maria , Márquez Miguel Ángel , Arellano Marta , Clemente Carlos , Sabartés Olga , Carballo Núria , de Antonio Marta , Ibarra Maria Olatz , Martin Candelaria , Hernández Rubén ,   the MoPIM Study Group
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Multimorbidity and polypharmacy in older adults converts the detection and adequacy of potentially inappropriate drug prescriptions (PIDP) in a healthcare priority. The objectives of this study are to describe the clinical decisions taken after the identification of PIDP by clinical pharmacists, using STOPP/START criteria, and to evaluate the degree of accomplishment of these decisions.

Methods

Multicenter, prospective, non-comparative cohort study in patients aged 65 and older, hospitalized because of an exacerbation of their chronic conditions. Each possible PIDP was manually identified by the clinical pharmacist at admission and an initial decision was taken by a multidisciplinary clinical committee. At discharge, criteria were re-applied and final decisions recorded.

Results

From all patients (n = 674), 493 (73.1%) presented at least one STOPP criteria at admission, significantly reduced up to 258 (38.3%) at discharge. A similar trend was observed for START criteria (36.7% vs. 15.7%). Regarding the top 10 most prevalent STOPP criteria, the clinical committee initially agreed to withdraw 257 (34.2%) prescriptions and to modify 93 (12.4%) prescriptions. However, the evaluation of final clinical decisions revealed that 503 (67.0%) of those STOPP criteria were ultimately amended. For the top 10 START criteria associated PIDP, the committee decided to initiate 149 (51.7%) prescriptions, while a total of 198 (68.8%) were finally introduced at discharge.

Conclusions

The clinical committee, through a pharmacotherapy review, succeeded in identifying and reducing the degree of prescription inadequacy, for both STOPP and START criteria, in older patients with high degree of multimorbidity and polypharmacy.

Trial Registration

NCT02830425.
Isolation and identification of hoylesella marshii causing pleural infection: a case report
Authors: Zhang Hairong , Li Man , Wang Sen
Published: July 2024

Background

Hoylesella marshii can be isolated from human oral cavities affected by dental pulp and periodontal infections, as well as from the dental plaque of healthy individuals, making it a common bacterium within the oral microbiota. However, its role in causing pleural infections in humans is rare.

Case presentation

A case of purulent pleural effusion occurred shortly after discharge in an elderly patient who had undergone surgery for gastric cancer. The infection was identified as being caused by an obligate anaerobe through laboratory culture, and was further identified as Hoylesella marshii causing pleural infection through 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Susceptibility testing guided precise treatment with cefoperazone-sulbactam and metronidazole. The patient’s clinical symptoms improved rapidly, laboratory test indicators gradually returned to normal, and the patient ultimately recovered.

Conclusion

Hoylesella marshii can cause pleural infections in humans. Clinical microbiology laboratories should pay special attention to the cultivation of obligate anaerobes when routine aerobic cultures do not show bacterial growth but bacteria are visible on smear staining, and when conventional identification methods fail to identify the bacterium, analysis based on the highly conserved 16 S rRNA gene sequence can accurately and specifically identify the bacterium, guiding clinicians in formulating precise anti-infection strategies.
Estimate of the hydraulic force in the aging heart: a cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Gueda Moussa Moussa , Lamy Jérôme , Nguyen Vincent , Marsac Perrine , Gencer Umit , Mousseaux Elie , Bollache Emilie , Kachenoura Nadjia
Published: July 2024

Background

Coupling between left ventricle (LV) and left atrium (LA) plays a central role in the process of cardiac remodeling during aging and development of cardiac disease. The hydraulic force (HyF) is related to variation in size between LV and LA. The objectives of this study were to: (1) derive an estimate of left atrioventricular HyF using cine- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in healthy subjects with a wide age range, and (2) study its relationship with age and conventional diastolic function parameters, as estimated by reference echocardiography.

Methods

We studied 119 healthy volunteers (mean age 44 ± 17 years, 58 women) who underwent Doppler echocardiography and MRI on the same day. Conventional transmitral flow early (E) and late (A) LV filling peak velocities as well as mitral annulus diastolic longitudinal peak velocity (E’) were derived from echocardiography. MRI cine SSFP images in longitudinal two and four chamber views were acquired, and analyzed using feature tracking (FT) software. In addition to conventional LV and LA strain measurements, FT-derived LV and LA contours were further used to calculate chamber cross-sectional areas. HyF was approximated as the difference between the LV and LA maximal cross-sectional areas in the diastasis phase corresponding to the lowest LV-LA pressure gradient. Univariate and multivariate analyses while adjusting for appropriate variables were used to study the associations between HyF and age as well as diastolic function and strain indices.

Results

HyF decreased significantly with age (R²=0.34, p < 0.0001). In addition, HyF was significantly associated with conventional indices of diastolic function and LA strain: E/A: R²=0.24, p < 0.0001; E’: R²=0.24, p < 0.0001; E/E’: R²=0.12, p = 0.0004; LA conduit longitudinal strain: R²=0.27, p < 0.0001. In multivariate analysis, associations with E/A (R2 = 0.39, p = 0.03) and LA conduit strain (R2 = 0.37, p = 0.02) remained significant after adjustment for age, sex, and body mass index.

Conclusions

HyF, estimated using FT contours, which are primarily used to quantify LV/LA strain on standard cardiac cine MRI, varied significantly with age in association with subclinical changes in ventricular filling. Its usefulness in cohorts of patients with left heart disease to detect LV-LA uncoupling remains to be evaluated.
Selective anti-tumor activity of glutathione-responsive abasic site trapping agent in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Chai Jinyan , Su Mengxue , Zhang Ruiguo , Li Ning , Jia Yuanyuan , Zheng Wei , Tan Jian , Jia Qiang , Sun Huabing , Meng Zhaowei
Published: July 2024

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare but highly aggressive thyroid cancer with poor prognosis. Killing cancer cells by inducing DNA damage or blockage of DNA repair is a promising strategy for chemotherapy. It is reported that aldehyde-reactive alkoxyamines can capture the AP sites, one of the most common DNA lesions, and inhibit apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1(APE1)-mediated base excision repair (BER), leading to cell death. Whether this strategy can be employed for ATC treatment is rarely investigated. The aim of this study is to exploit GSH-responsive AP site capture reagent (AP probe-net), which responses to the elevated glutathione (GSH) levels in the tumor micro-environment (TME), releasing reactive alkoxyamine to trap AP sites and block the APE1-mediated BER for targeted anti-tumor activity against ATC. In vitro experiments, including MTT andγ-H2AX assays, demonstrate their selective cytotoxicity towards ATC cells over normal thyroid cells. Flow cytometry analysis suggests that AP probe-net arrests the cell cycle in the G2/M phase and induces apoptosis. Western blotting (WB) results show that the expression of apoptotic protein increased with the increased concentration of AP probe-net. Further in vivo experiments reveal that the AP probe-net has a good therapeutic effect on subcutaneous tumors of the ATC cells. In conclusion, taking advantage of the elevated GSH in TME, our study affords a new strategy for targeted chemotherapy of ATC with high selectivity and reduced adverse effects.