bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excitotoxic glutamate levels cause the secretion of resident endoplasmic reticulum proteins
Authors: Dossat Amanda M. , Trychta Kathleen A. , Glotfelty Elliot J. , Hinkle Joshua J. , Fortuno Lowella V. , Gore Lana N. , Richie Christopher T. , Harvey Brandon K.
Published: March 2024

Dysregulation of synaptic glutamate levels can lead to excitotoxicity such as that observed in stroke, traumatic brain injury, and epilepsy. The role of increased intracellular calcium (Ca2+) in the development of excitotoxicity is well established. However, less is known regarding the impact of glutamate on endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐Ca2+‐mediated processes such as proteostasis. To investigate this, we expressed a secreted ER Ca2+ modulated protein (SERCaMP) in primary cortical neurons to monitor exodosis, a phenomenon whereby ER calcium depletion causes the secretion of ER‐resident proteins that perform essential functions to the ER and the cell. Activation of glutamatergic receptors (GluRs) led to an increase in SERCaMP secretion indicating that normally ER‐resident proteins are being secreted in a manner consistent with ER Ca2+ depletion. Antagonism of ER Ca2+ channels attenuated the effects of glutamate and GluR agonists on SERCaMP release. We also demonstrate that endogenous proteins containing an ER retention/retrieval sequence (ERS) are secreted in response to GluR activation supporting that neuronal activation by glutamate promotes ER exodosis. Ectopic expression of KDEL receptors attenuated the secretion of ERS‐containing proteins caused by GluR agonists. Taken together, our data indicate that excessive GluR activation causes disruption of neuronal proteostasis by triggering the secretion of ER‐resident proteins through ER Ca2+ depletion and describes a new facet of excitotoxicity.

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Real‐life data over 36 weeks of guselkumab treatment in psoriasis patients: A single‐center study from Turkey
Authors: Solak Eda Öksüm , Aba Fatih Can , Çınar Salih Levent , Kartal Demet , Borlu Murat
Published: March 2024

Background

Psoriasis is an important health problem responsible for morbidity and workforce loss. In recent years, anti‐IL‐23 drugs have become essential in psoriasis treatment.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of guselkumab therapy, recently used in Turkey, by examining real‐life data over 36 weeks.

Methods

A total of 39 psoriasis patients (>18 years old) who received guselkumab treatment between December 2021 and December 2022 in the dermatology department of our hospital were included in the study. Patients” ages, sexes, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, duration of illness, drugs used before guselkumab treatment, clinical response to guselkumab treatment, and side effects, if any, were recorded. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores at baseline and Weeks 4, 12, 24, and 36 were evaluated, as well as the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) at the beginning and end of the study.

Results

The PASI scores at Weeks 4, 12, 24, and 36 and the DLQI at Week 36 decreased statistically compared with baseline (p < 0.05). The PASI score at baseline and Weeks 4, 24, and 36 did not differ between groups based on IL‐17 use (p > 0.05). No significant correlation was observed between BMI, disease duration, and PASI scores at baseline and Weeks 4, 12, 24, and 36. No side effects were observed in any of the patients during treatment.

Conclusion

This study includes real‐life data on the use of guselkumab therapy for psoriasis in the Turkish population. Based on the results, guselkumab is a highly effective and safe treatment.
Evaluation of people's satisfaction with botulinum toxin injection for facial rejuvenation based on age
Authors: Farashi Farzaneh , Ghoncheh Mahdi , Ghasemian Moghaddam Mohammad Reza , Soroosh Zahra
Published: March 2024

Background

Botulinum toxin type A injections are widely used for facial rejuvenation; however, research on people's satisfaction based on age is limited. This study assessed patient satisfaction with botulinum toxin injections for forehead, glabella, and periorbital wrinkles in Birjand, Iran.

Patients and Methods

The current study examined 150 people aged 18 to 70 who requested botulinum toxin type A injection in the forehead, glabellar, and periorbital area in 2022, who visited the plastic surgery clinic and the authors' offices in Birjand City. To check patients' satisfaction, Facial Lines Treatment Satisfaction (FTS) Questionnaire was used. One month after botulinum toxin type A injection, this questionnaire was completed by the clients. Also, the brand type of botulinum toxin, age, gender of the clients, frequency of visits, and complications were collected in the relevant checklist.

Results

The average age of participants was 38.8 ± 8.29 years with 73.3% being female. Masport botulinum toxin (MasoonDarou Pharmaceutical Company, I.R. Iran) was the most frequently used botulinum toxin brand at 66.7%. The average satisfaction score with the result of botulinum toxin injection in the forehead/glabella and periorbital area, in the age group under 30 years and 30–40 years, was significantly higher than in the age group over 50 years. The same indicators in the age group under 30 years old were significantly higher than in the 30–40 age group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, brand selection and the number of visits (first‐time vs. second‐time clients) demonstrated varied outcomes in satisfaction. There was a total of 62.7% side effects postinjection, with varying degrees of severity.
Work‐related rumination as a mediator between hindrance demands and sleep quality
Authors: Janurek Janina , Junker Nina M. , Abdel Hadi Sascha , Mojzisch Andreas , Häusser Jan A.
Published: March 2024

Job demands can negatively affect sleep. However, previous studies have provided inconclusive results regarding the mediating role of work‐related rumination in this relationship. Integrating prolonged activation theory with the challenge‐hindrance framework, we hypothesized that – on a day level – hindrance demands, but not challenge demands, are negatively associated with sleep quality and sleep duration via work‐related rumination. We tested this assumption in a 14‐day ambulatory assessment study with a sample of employees (N = 175). As predicted, we found that only hindrance demands, but not challenge demands, are related to sleep quality via work‐related rumination. No relationships with sleep duration were found for any type of job demands.
Attitudes towards artificial intelligence at work: Scale development and validation
Authors: Park Jiyoung , Woo Sang Eun , Kim JeongJin
Published: March 2024

Research suggests that understanding workers' attitudes towards artificial intelligence (AI) application is a prerequisite to successfully integrating AI into an organization. However, few studies have clarified the meaning of attitudes towards AI application at work (AAAW) as a multifaceted construct that can be assessed with psychometric validity. To address this issue, we developed and validated a scale to capture individuals' AAAW using three independent samples (total N = 2841). The resulting 25‐item scale covers an overall construct of AAAW as well as six dimensions that are subsumed under the construct (i.e., perceived humanlikeness, perceived adaptability, perceived quality of AI, AI use anxiety, job insecurity and personal utility). Our findings suggest that the AAAW scale has good psychometric properties and can be used to predict important recruiting outcomes. The scale offers opportunities to better understand and measure workers' attitudes towards AI application at work in a comprehensive and integrative manner.
Analysis of risk factors and interactions for pain in temporomandibular disorder: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Yang , Xu Li‐li , Liu Sha‐sha , Lu Shen‐ji , Liu Li‐kun , Zeng Hong , Fang Zhong‐yi
Published: March 2024

Background

Risk factors for temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain remain unclear.

Objectives

This study aimed to identify risk factors for TMD pain using a biopsychosocial model and to investigate interactions between potential risk factors—oral behaviours (OBs), psychological factors and sleep quality—and their direct and indirect effects on TMD pain.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 488 patients with TMDs (422 women; 30.8 ± 9.4 years). Pain was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale. Demographic, behavioural, psychological and biomedical data were collected through clinical examination, face‐to‐face interviews and questionnaires. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with TMD pain. Mediation and moderation analysis were used to evaluate interactions between variables. Significant mediation (‘0’ not included in the 95% confidence interval (CI)) and moderation (p < .05) effects on TMD pain were identified.

Results

Marital status, diagnosis subgroup, previous medication use, depression and sleep quality were significant risk factors for TMD pain (p < .05). Significant mediation effects were observed as follows: depression and sleep quality mediated the association between OBs and pain; sleep quality mediated the association between somatization, depression, anxiety and pain; and depression mediated the association between sleep quality and pain (all 95% CI did not contain ‘0’).

Conclusions

(1) Marital status, diagnosis subgroup, previous medication use, depression and sleep quality were associated with TMD pain. (2) OBs can exacerbate pain by promoting depression and reducing sleep quality. Psychological factors and sleep quality can interact to exacerbate pain.
Enhancing operational rations for Special Operations Forces: A qualitative analysis and roadmap for product improvement
Authors: De Abreu Vitor Luiz F. , Tavares Filho Elson R. , Monteiro Sabrina S. , Esmerino Erick A.
Published: March 2024

Ninety‐eight (n = 98) military personnel from the Brazilian Army Special Operations Forces (SOF) participated in 10 Focus Groups to discuss the suitability of Combat Operational Rations with the service doctrine. The operational rations provided partially meet the operational and doctrinal demands of the SOF. Although the military personnel felt secure with the rations provided, the need to customize kits with locally sourced food items before the start of the mission and complaints about the excessive packaging volume were the categories that showed the highest level of engagement. The insights obtained for improving the rations indicated the need for adjustments in palatability, menu variety, modularization, practicality, and an increase in the nutritional content of macro and micronutrients. Further studies should be conducted in partnership with military technical sectors and strategic defense companies to assess the feasibility of developing rations better aligned with the SOF doctrine.

Practical Applications

Addressing the challenges identified in the Rations used by the Brazilian Army Special Operations Forces (SOF) is crucial for improving the readiness and performance of elite military units and offers valuable insights for academic research. This benefits the academic community by demonstrating the real‐world relevance of nutrition science, food technology, and logistics in military settings. Furthermore, the collaboration between military technical sectors and strategic defense companies presents an opportunity for industrial innovation. Companies involved in producing and supplying rations can use these findings to develop more suitable, efficient, and cost‐effective products tailored to the unique demands of SOF units.
Periodontitis and risk of mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Hong , Wang Shengpeng , Wei Zhenhui
Published: March 2024

Studies examining the link between periodontitis and survival outcomes have yielded conflicting results in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This systematic review with meta‐analysis aims to assess the association between periodontitis and cardiovascular or all‐cause mortality in CKD patients. A thorough search was conducted on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases for studies investigating the association between periodontitis and survival outcomes in CKD patients. Two authors independently scanned the titles or abstracts and then identified the eligible full‐text article based on the PECOS criteria: Participants (CKD patients), Exposure (periodontitis), Comparison (mild/no periodontitis), Outcomes (cardiovascular or all‐cause mortality), and Study design (retrospective or prospective cohort). Six cohort studies, including 7731 patients, were identified. The included studies had low‐to‐moderate risk of bias. The mean/median follow‐up duration ranged from 18.1 months to 8.67 years. The all‐cause mortality rate was 44.8% for patients with periodontitis and 28.0% for controls. Meta‐analysis showed that periodontitis, defined through clinical attachment loss (CAL), was significantly associated with an increased risk of all‐cause (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.24; 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.89–1.72; I2 = 80.9%) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.57; 95% CI 1.08–2.27; I2 = 34.0%). Additionally, a significant association between periodontitis and the risk of cardiovascular or all‐cause mortality was observed in studies with a predominance of females, follow‐up duration ≥5 years, all stages of CKD, and low risk of bias subgroups. Periodontitis is significantly associated with an increased risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in CKD patients within low risk of bias subgroup or based on defining periodontitis through CAL. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42018512391.
Symbiosis modulates gene expression of symbionts, but not coral hosts, under thermal challenge
Authors: Aichelman Hannah E. , Huzar Alexa K. , Wuitchik Daniel M. , Atherton Kathryn F. , Wright Rachel M. , Dixon Groves , Schlatter E. , Haftel Nicole , Davies Sarah W.
Published: March 2024

Increasing ocean temperatures are causing dysbiosis between coral hosts and their symbionts. Previous work suggests that coral host gene expression responds more strongly to environmental stress compared to their intracellular symbionts; however, the causes and consequences of this phenomenon remain untested. We hypothesized that symbionts are less responsive because hosts modulate symbiont environments to buffer stress. To test this hypothesis, we leveraged the facultative symbiosis between the scleractinian coral Oculina arbuscula and its symbiont Breviolum psygmophilum to characterize gene expression responses of both symbiotic partners in and ex hospite under thermal challenges. To characterize host and in hospite symbiont responses, symbiotic and aposymbiotic O. arbuscula were exposed to three treatments: (1) control (18°C), (2) heat (32°C), and (3) cold (6°C). This experiment was replicated with B. psygmophilum cultured from O. arbuscula to characterize ex hospite symbiont responses. Both thermal challenges elicited classic environmental stress responses (ESRs) in O. arbuscula regardless of symbiotic state, with hosts responding more strongly to cold challenge. Hosts also exhibited stronger responses than in hospite symbionts. In and ex hospite B. psygmophilum both down‐regulated gene ontology pathways associated with photosynthesis under thermal challenge; however, ex hospite symbionts exhibited greater gene expression plasticity and differential expression of genes associated with ESRs. Taken together, these findings suggest that O. arbuscula hosts may buffer environments of B. psygmophilum symbionts; however, we outline the future work needed to confirm this hypothesis.
‘Good’ evaluation: Methodological diversity may be empress, but sound methods remain queen
Authors: Onyura Betty
Published: March 2024

@Betty_EvalEd argues it's not enough to simply value evaluation methodology as the gauge that indicates when our “needle” is shifting. We must also monitor the quality & operations of the gauge itself.
Two distinct SNARE complexes mediate vesicle fusion with the plasma membrane to ensure effective development and pathogenesis of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense
Authors: Fang Zhenyu , Zhao Qiwen , Yang Shiyu , Cai Yan , Fang Wenqin , Abubakar Yakubu Saddeeq , Lin Ying , Yun Yingzi , Zheng Wenhui
Published: March 2024

SNAREs (soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors) facilitate docking and fusion of vesicles with their target membranes, playing a crucial role in vesicle trafficking and exocytosis. However, the spatial assembly and roles of plasma membrane (PM)‐associated SNAREs in phytopathogen development and pathogenicity are not clearly understood. In this study, we analysed the roles and molecular mechanisms of PM‐associated SNARE complexes in the banana Fusarium wilt fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (FocTR4). Our findings demonstrate that FocSso1 is important for the fungal growth, conidiation, host penetration and colonization. Mechanistically, FocSso1 regulates protein secretion by mediating vesicle docking and fusion with the PM and hyphal apex. Interestingly, a FocSso1–FocSec9–FocSnc1 complex was observed to assemble not only at the fungal PM but also on the growing hyphal apex, facilitating exocytosis. FocSso2, a paralogue of FocSso1, was also found to form a ternary SNARE complex with FocSec9 and FocSnc1, but it mainly localizes to the PM in old hyphae. The functional analysis of this protein demonstrated that it is dispensable for the fungal growth but necessary for host penetration and colonization. The other subunits, FocSec9 and FocSnc1, are involved in the fungal development and facilitate host penetration. Furthermore, FocSso1 and FocSnc1 are functionally interdependent, as loss of FocSso1 leads to mis‐sorting and degradation of FocSnc1 in the vacuole and vice versa. Overall, this study provides insight into the formation of two spatially and functionally distinct PM SNARE complexes and their involvement in vesicle exocytosis to regulate development and pathogenicity of FocTR4.
Immunohistochemical analysis of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis
Authors: Bhat Ramesh M. , Madhumita Monisha , Marla Nisha J. , Jayaraman Jyothi
Published: March 2024

Background

Dermatophytosis has assumed epidemic proportions with rising resistance, recalcitrance and recurrence, especially in tropical regions. While various factors contribute to high prevalence worldwide, yet little is known about the interactions between host defence mechanisms and dermatophytes, particularly in chronic and recalcitrant dermatophytosis.

Objectives

We aimed to compare the population of various immune cells in specimens of chronic recurrent dermatophytosis and those with acute superficial dermatophytosis.

Methods

We investigated the density of various immune cells—Langerhans cells (CD1a+), macrophages (CD68+), dermal dendrocytes (Factor XIIIa+) in the skin of chronic dermatophytosis patients and those with successfully resolved lesions (controls).

Results

Langerhans cells were significantly decreased in the epidermis of patients, both in affected and unaffected areas in comparison with controls. In the dermis, however, no differences in the density of immune cells (macrophages and fibroblasts) were observed.

Limitations

The limited sample size and immune cells evaluated could be expanded further in future research.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the decreased number of Langerhans cells could be a potential risk factor for the development of chronic and recurrent dermatophytosis.
Gastrointestinal diagnoses in patients with eating disorders: A retrospective cohort study 2010–2020
Authors: Almeida Mariana N. , Atkins Micaela , Garcia‐Fischer Isabelle , Weeks Imani E. , Silvernale Casey J. , Samad Ahmad , Rao Fatima , Burton‐Murray Helen , Staller Kyle
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are common in patients with eating disorders. However, the temporal relationship between GI and eating disorder symptoms has not been explored. We aimed to evaluate GI disorders among patients with eating disorders, their relative timing, and the relationship between GI diagnoses and eating disorder remission.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with an eating disorder diagnosis who had a GI encounter from 2010 to 2020. GI diagnoses and timing of eating disorder onset were abstracted from chart review. Coders applied DSM‐5 criteria for eating disorders at the time of GI consult to determine eating disorder remission status.

Results

Of 344 patients with an eating disorder diagnosis and GI consult, the majority (255/344, 74.2%) were diagnosed with an eating disorder prior to GI consult (preexisting eating disorder). GI diagnoses categorized as functional/motility disorders were most common among the cohort (57.3%), particularly in those with preexisting eating disorders (62.5%). 113 (44.3%) patients with preexisting eating disorders were not in remission at GI consult, which was associated with being underweight (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.04–0.46, p < 0.001) and increasing number of GI diagnoses (OR 0.47 per diagnosis, 95% CI 0.26–0.85, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Eating disorder symptoms precede GI consult for most patients, particularly in functional/motility disorders. As almost half of eating disorder patients are not in remission at GI consult. GI providers have an important role in screening for eating disorders. Further prospective research is needed to understand the complex relationship between eating disorders and GI symptoms.
Ontogenetic trajectories as the target of selection
Authors: Olson Mark E.
Published: March 2024

This article is a Commentary on Huntsman & Leslie (2024), 242: 2301–2311.
Associations of bisphenol A exposure with metabolic syndrome and its components: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xiao Tianli , Huang Zehua , Zheng Chanjuan , Quach Binh , Zhu Yulian , Li Feifei , Liang Wei , Baker Julien , Reichetzeder Christoph , Hocher Berthold , Yang Yide
Published: March 2024

Mounting evidence shows that bisphenol A (BPA) is associated with metabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to review related epidemiologic studies and conduct a meta‐analysis to quantitatively estimate the association between BPA and metabolic syndrome. Four electronic databases were systematically searched to identify suitable articles. A total of 47 published studies were finally included. Two studies involved metabolic syndrome. Of the 17, 17, 14, and 13 studies on the relationship between BPA with abdominal obesity, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, and dyslipidemia, 10, 6, 3, and 4 studies were included in the meta‐analysis, respectively. The results showed that the risk of abdominal obesity increased with the increase of BPA exposure, especially in the group with higher BPA exposure levels (Quartile 2 vs. Quartile 1, pooled OR = 1.16, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.33; Q3 vs. Q1, pooled OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.13, 1.51; Q4 vs. Q1, pooled OR = 1.40, 95%CI: 1.21, 1.61). However, there was no significant correlation between BPA exposure and metabolic syndrome components including hypertension, abnormal fasting plasma glucose, and dyslipidemia. The present study found that BPA exposure is significantly associated with a higher risk of abdominal obesity. However, the relationship between BPA with metabolic syndrome and its other components needs further longitudinal studies to verify.
The New Double‐row Bankart Repair Recovered Shoulder Stability without Excessive Motion Limitation: A Case–Control Study with Single‐row Bankart Repair
Authors: Cheng Xu , Wang Hangle , Jiang Yanfang , Shao Zhenxing , Cui Guoqing
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Bankart lesion is one of the most common lesions of the glenohumeral joint. Several double‐row suture methods were reported for Bankart repair, which could provide more stability, yet more motion limitation and complications. Therefore, we introduced a new double‐row Bankart repair technique, key point double‐row suture which used one anchor in the medial line. The purpose of this article is to investigate the clinical outcomes of this new method and to compare it with single‐row suture.

Methods

Seventy‐eight patients receiving key point double‐row suture or single‐row suture from October 2010 to June 2014 were collected retrospectively. The basic information including gender, age, dominant arm, and number of episodes of instability was collected. Before surgery, the glenoid bone loss was measured from the CT scan. The visual analogue scale, American shoulder and elbow surgeons, the University of California at Los Angeles shoulder scale, and subjective shoulder value were valued before surgery and at the last follow‐up.

Results

Forty‐four patients (24 patients receiving single‐row suture and 20 patients receiving key point double‐row suture) were followed up successfully. The follow‐up period was 9.2 ± 1.1 years (range, 7.8–11.4 years). At the last follow‐up, no significant differences were detected for any of the clinical scores. The recurrence rate was 12.5% for the single‐row group and 10% for the double‐row group, respectively (p = 0.795) 14 patients (31.8%) in the single‐row group and nine patients (26.5%) in the double‐row group were tested for active range of motion. A statistically significant difference was found only for the internal rotation at 90° abduction (48.9° for single‐row and 76.7° for key point double‐row, p = 0.033).

Conclusion

The key point double‐row sutures for Bankart lesions could achieve similar long‐term outcomes compared with single‐row suture, and one medial anchor did not result in a limited range of motion. The low recurrence rate and previous biomechanical results also indicate the key point double‐row suture is a reliable method.
Permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia due to an atypical retrograde slow conducting decremental left posterolateral accessory pathway and tachycardia‐induced cardiomyopathy in a pregnant adolescent
Authors: Kohli Utkarsh , Hassan Sohail , Mercer Christopher , Rhodes Larry
Published: March 2024

Permanent junctional reciprocating tachycardia (PJRT) is a rare form of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) due to a retrograde slow conducting decremental accessory pathway (AP) which is often incessant and can lead to tachycardia‐induced cardiomyopathy (TIC). We report the challenging clinical course of a pregnant adolescent with PJRT due to an atypical retrograde slow conducting decremental left posterolateral AP. Pregnancy is known to exacerbate supraventricular arrhythmias and can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. To the best of our knowledge, there are no prior reports on the clinical course of rare incessant and difficult‐to‐treat arrhythmias such as PJRT in a pregnant adolescent patient.
Cardiac sarcoidosis with extensive and heterogeneous left ventricular FDG uptake in absence of guidelines indication for an implantable defibrillator: Ventricular tachycardia precipitated by immunosuppressive therapy, should we have done differently?
Authors: Voisine Emile , Lemay Sylvain , Beaudoin Jonathan , Jacob Philippe , Philippon François , Marchand Laurie , Vallée‐Marcotte Bastien , Bernier Florence , Laliberté Claudine , Fortin Sophie , Komlosy Marie‐Ève , Birnie David H. , Sénéchal Mario
Published: March 2024

A 40‐year‐old man, newly diagnosed with cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) presented with symptomatic ventricular tachycardia three days after starting steroid‐based immunosuppressive therapy (IT). There was no clear guideline indication for implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) before the initiation of IT. Shortly after ICD implantation and the initiation of anti‐arrhythmic drugs, recurring ventricular arrhythmias required titration of the anti‐arrhythmic drug therapy. One‐year follow‐up assessment showed no significant arrhythmias and complete PET scan FDG uptake suppression. This case, along with recent publications, suggests transient pro‐arrhythmic effects of steroids in patients with CS, which are not appropriately addressed in the current guidelines. We believe ICD implantation should be considered in clinically manifest CS before initiating IT, particularly in cases with heterogeneous and/or extensive FDG uptake on PET scans.
Oversharing: The downside of data sharing in local government
Authors: Caldarulo Mattia , Olsen Jared , Feeney Mary K.
Published: March 2024

Health crises, climate change, and technological hazards pose serious managerial and equity challenges for local governments. To effectively navigate the uncertainties and complexity, municipalities are increasingly collaborating with one another and sharing data and information to improve decision‐making. While data sharing fosters effectiveness in responding to threats, it also entails risks. One major concern is that local government managers often lack the knowledge and technical skills required for safe and effective data sharing, exposing municipalities to cyberthreats. Drawing on data sharing and cybersecurity scholarship, we investigate whether increased data sharing among local governments makes cities more or less vulnerable to cyberincidents. We test our hypotheses using data from two national surveys of U.S. local government managers conducted in 2016 and 2018. Our findings contribute to the literature on technology and risk in government by informing both public managers and researchers about the potential threats associated with data sharing.
Benralizumab in children with severe eosinophilic asthma: Pharmacokinetics and long‐term safety (TATE study)
Authors: Wedner H. James , Fujisawa Takao , Guilbert Theresa W. , Ikeda Masanori , Mehta Vinay , Tam Jonathan S. , Lukka Pradeep B. , Asimus Sara , Durżyński Tomasz , Johnston James , White Wendy I. , Shah Mihir , Werkström Viktoria , Jison Maria L. ,   all TATE investigators
Published: March 2024

Background

Benralizumab is an anti‐interleukin‐5 receptor α monoclonal antibody approved as an add‐on maintenance treatment for patients with uncontrolled severe asthma. Prior Phase 3 studies have evaluated benralizumab in patients aged ≥12 years with severe uncontrolled asthma. The TATE study evaluated the pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and safety of benralizumab treatment in children.

Methods

TATE was an open‐label, Phase 3 study of benralizumab in children aged 6–11 years from the United States and Japan (plus participants aged 12–14 years from Japan) with severe eosinophilic asthma. Participants received benralizumab 10/30 mg according to weight (<35/≥35 kg). Primary endpoints included maximum serum concentration (Cmax), clearance, half‐life (t1/2), and blood eosinophil count. Clearance and t1/2 were derived from a population PK (popPK) analysis. Safety and tolerability were also assessed.

Results

Twenty‐eight children aged 6–11 years were included, with an additional two participants from Japan aged 12–14 years also included in the popPK analysis. Mean Cmax was 1901.2 and 3118.7 ng/mL in the 10 mg/<35 kg and 30 mg/≥35 kg groups, respectively. Clearance was 0.257, and mean t1/2 was 14.5 days. Near‐complete depletion of blood eosinophils was shown across dose/weight groups. Exploratory efficacy analyses found numerical improvements in mean FEV1, mean ACQ‐IA, patient/clinician global impression of change, and exacerbation rates. Adverse events occurred in 22/28 (78.6%) of participants; none led to discontinuation/death.

Conclusion

PK, PD, and safety data support long‐term benralizumab in children with severe eosinophilic asthma, and were similar to findings in adolescents and adults.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov‐ID: NCT04305405.
The interplay of short‐term mesophyll and stomatal conductance responses under variable environmental conditions
Authors: Márquez Diego A. , Busch Florian A.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the short‐term responses of mesophyll conductance (gm) and stomatal conductance (gsc) to environmental changes remains a challenging yet central aspect of plant physiology. This review synthesises our current knowledge of these short‐term responses, which underpin CO2diffusion within leaves. Recent methodological advances in measuringgmusing online isotopic discrimination and chlorophyll fluorescence have improved our confidence in detecting short‐termgmresponses, but results need to be carefully evaluated. Environmental factors like vapour pressure deficit and CO2concentration indirectly impactgmthroughgscchanges, highlighting some of the complex interactions between the two parameters. Evidence suggests that short‐term responses ofgmare not, or at least not fully, mechanistically linked to changes ingsc, cautioning against usinggscas a reliable proxy forgm. The overarching challenge lies in unravelling the mechanistic basis of short‐termgmresponses, which will contribute to the development of accurate models bridging laboratory insights with broader ecological implications. Addressing these gaps in understanding is crucial for refining predictions ofgmbehaviour under changing environmental conditions.
Glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B impacts the malignant potential of bladder cancer cells through its hem‐immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation motif
Authors: Kimura Tomokazu , Okita Yukari , Nagumo Yoshiyuki , Chin Jas Min , Fikry Muhammad Ali , Shiga Masanobu , Kandori Shuya , Kawahara Takashi , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Kato Mitsuyasu
Published: March 2024

Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers among men worldwide. Although multiple genomic mutations and epigenetic alterations have been identified, an efficacious molecularly targeted therapy has yet to be established. Therefore, a novel approach is anticipated. Glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed in various cancers. In this study, we evaluated bladder cancer patient samples and found that GPNMB protein abundance is associated with high‐grade tumors, and both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that GPNMB is a prognostic factor. Furthermore, the prognosis of patients with high GPNMB levels was significantly poorer in those with nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) than in those with muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). We then demonstrated that knockdown of GPNMB in MIBC cell lines with high GPNMB inhibits cellular migration and invasion, whereas overexpression of GPNMB further enhances cellular migration and invasion in MIBC cell lines with originally low GPNMB. Therefore, we propose that GPNMB is one of multiple driver molecules in the acquisition of cellular migratory and invasive potential in bladder cancers. Moreover, we revealed that the tyrosine residue in the hemi‐immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation motif (hemITAM) is required for GPNMB‐induced cellular motility.
Carcinoma showing thymus‐like elements (CASTLE) with amyloid deposition in the parotid gland
Authors: Hamada Mei , Miyama Yu , Matsumura Satoko , Shintani‐Domoto Yukako , Urano Makoto , Yasuda Masanori
Published: March 2024

Carcinoma showing thymus‐like elements (CASTLE) is a rare tumor that commonly occurs in the thyroid gland. Extrathyroidal CASTLE is rarer, and only 11 cases of CASTLE of major salivary glands have been reported to date. We report the first case of amyloid deposition in parotid CASTLE. A 63‐year‐old man presented with a slowly growing mass in the left parotid region. Computed tomography revealed an approximately 28 × 23 mm mass lesion in the left parotid gland, and squamous cell carcinoma was suspected on biopsy. The patient underwent a parotidectomy with neck dissection. Morphologically, the tumor cells were squamoid and formed nests with lymphoid infiltration. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells exhibited immunoreactivity for CD5, CD117/c‐kit and Bcl‐2, p40, and CK5 but not for p16. We diagnosed the tumor as parotid CASTLE. Amyloid deposition was also observed in the primary tumor and metastatic lymph node lesions, which were immunoreactive for cytokeratin 5. Tumor cytokeratin‐derived amyloid deposition may be one of characteristics of parotid CASTLE.
Differential photosynthetic plasticity of Amazonian tree species in response to light environments
Authors: Nina Junior A. d. R. , Maia J. M. F. , Martins S. V. C. , dos Santos Nina N. V. , da Costa K. C. P. , de Carvalho J. C. , Schramm Mielke M. , Nunes‐Nesi A. , Araújo W. L. , de Carvalho Gonçalves J. F.
Published: March 2024

To investigate how and to what extent there are differences in the photosynthetic plasticity of trees in response to different light environments, six species from three successional groups (late successional, mid‐successional, and pioneers) were exposed to three different light environments [deep shade – DS (5% full sunlight – FS), moderate shade – MS (35% FS) and full sunlight – FS].

Maximum net photosynthesis (Amax), leaf N partitioning, stomatal, mesophile, and biochemical limitations (SL, ML, and BL, respectively), carboxylation velocity (Vcmax), and electron transport (Jmax) rates, and the state of photosynthetic induction (IS) were evaluated.

Higher values of Amax, Vcmax, and Jmax in FS were observed for pioneer species, which invested the largest amount of leaf N in Rubisco. The lower IS for pioneer species reveals its reduced ability to take advantage of sunflecks. In general, the main photosynthetic limitations are diffusive, with SL and ML having equal importance under FS, and ML decreasing along with irradiance. The leaf traits, which are more determinant of the photosynthetic process, respond independently in relation to the successional group, especially with low light availability.

An effective partitioning of leaf N between photosynthetic and structural components played a crucial role in the acclimation process and determined the increase or decrease of photosynthesis in response to the light conditions.
No safe haven: Loss of avirulence in the plant pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans by DNA duplication and repeat‐induced point mutation
Authors: Idnurm Alexander , McCallum Alec J. , Van de Wouw Angela P.
Published: March 2024

Microbes can overcome the ability of plant resistance genes to confer protection against disease by mutating their corresponding avirulence genes. The fungus Leptosphaeria maculans causes blackleg disease on canola crops and subverts Brassica napus resistance genes through several DNA mutation mechanisms. One of these is repeat‐induced point (RIP) mutation, which can ‘leak’ into the avirulence genes from the adjacent repetitive sequences that the mutation process is targeting. Here, we identified populations of L. maculans in Australia that have extensive RIP mutations in the avirulence gene AvrLm2 and show that this has been triggered by a duplication of the gene and surrounding DNA that includes the distant (>55 kb in total) AvrLm6 gene. This finding provides another mechanism of mutation by which pathogens can overcome host resistance, and more broadly contributes to understanding the complex balance between gene duplication and genome defence.
Estimating the frequency of virulence against an Stb gene in Zymoseptoria tritici populations by bulk phenotyping on checkerboard microcanopies of wheat near‐isogenic lines
Authors: Suffert Frédéric , Le Prieur Stéphanie , Gélisse Sandrine , Dzialo Emmie , Saintenac Cyrille , Marcel Thierry C.
Published: March 2024

Monitoring virulent strains within pathogen populations is crucial to improve host resistance deployment strategies. Such monitoring increasingly involves field pathogenomics studies of molecular polymorphisms in pathogen genomes based on high‐throughput screening technologies. However, it is not always straightforward to predict virulence phenotypes from these polymorphisms, and in planta phenotyping remains necessary. We developed a method for ‘bulk phenotyping on checkerboard microcanopies of wheat near‐isogenic lines’ (BPC) for estimating the frequency of virulence against a resistance gene in mixed populations of the fungal pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici, the causal agent of Septoria tritici blotch (STB) in wheat, without the need for strain‐by‐strain pathogen phenotyping. Our method involves the uniform inoculation of a microcanopy of two wheat lines—one with the target resistance gene and the other without it—with a multistrain mixture of isolates representative of the population to be characterized, followed by the differential quantification of infection points (lesions). Using Stb16q, a wheat resistance gene that has recently broken down in Europe, we found a robust correlation between the ratio of the mean number of lesions on each wheat line and the frequency of virulent strains in the inoculum. Using pairs of virulent and avirulent strains, as well as synthetic populations consisting of 10 virulent strains and 10 avirulent strains mixed in different proportions, we validated the principle of the method and established standard curves at virulence frequencies close to those observed in natural conditions. We discuss the potential of this method for virulence monitoring in combination with molecular methods.
Metabolome and Transcriptome Reveal Chlorophyll, Carotenoid, and Anthocyanin Jointly Regulate the Color Formation of Triadica sebifera
Authors: Liu Qing , Wang Leijia , He Lina , Lu Yongkang , Wang Lin , Fu Songling , Luo Xumei , Zhang Yanping
Published: March 2024

The Chinese tallow tree (Triadica sebifera) is an economically important plant on account of its ornamental value and oil‐producing seeds. Leaf colour is a key characteristic of T. sebifera, with yellow‐, red‐ and purple‐leaved varieties providing visually impressive displays during autumn. In this study, we performed metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying leaf colour development in purple‐leaved T. sebifera at three stages during the autumnal colour transition, namely, green, hemi‐purple, and purple leaves. We accordingly detected 370 flavonoid metabolites and 10 anthocyanins, among the latter of which, cyanidin‐3‐xyloside and peonidin‐3‐O‐glucoside were identified as the predominant compounds in hemi‐purple and purple leaves. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that structural genes associated with the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway, chlorophyll synthesis pathway and carotenoid synthesis pathway were significantly differential expressed at the three assessed colour stages. Additionally, transcription factors associated with the MYB‐bHLH‐WD40 complex, including 22 R2R3‐MYBs, 79 bHLHs and 44 WD40 genes, were identified as candidate regulators of the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway. Moreover, on the basis of the identified differentially accumulated anthocyanins and key genes, we generated genetic and metabolic regulatory networks for anthocyanin biosynthesis in T. sebifera. These findings provide comprehensive information on the leaf transcriptome and three pigments of T. sebifera, thereby shedding new light on the mechanisms underlying the autumnal colouring of the leaves of this tree.
A Critical Review of Conventional and Modern Approaches to Develop Herbicide‐Resistance in Rice
Authors: Sang Shifei , Wang Yanan , Yao Guoqin , Ma Tengyun , Sun Xiaohan , Zhang Yijing , Su Nan , Tan Xiaoyu , Abbas Hafiz Muhammad Khalid , Ji Shengdong , Zaman Qamar U.
Published: March 2024

Together with rice, weeds strive for nutrients and space in farmland, resulting in reduced rice yield and quality. Planting herbicide‐resistant rice varieties is one of the effective ways to control weeds. In recent years, a series of breakthroughs have been made to generate herbicide‐resistant germplasm, especially the emergence of biotechnological tools such as gene editing, which provides an inherent advantage for the knock‐out or knock‐in of the desired genes. In order to develop herbicide‐resistant rice germplasm resources, gene manipulation has been conducted to enhance the herbicide tolerance of rice varieties through the utilization of techniques such as physical and chemical mutagenesis, as well as genome editing. Based on the current research and persisting problems in rice paddy fields, research on the generation of herbicide‐resistant rice still needs to explore genetic mechanisms, stacking multiple resistant genes in a single genotype, and transgene‐free genome editing using the CRISPR system. Current rapidly developing gene editing technologies can be used to mutate herbicide target genes, enabling targeted genes to maintain their biological functions, and reducing the binding ability of target gene encoded proteins to corresponding herbicides, ultimately resulting in herbicide‐resistant crops. In this review article, we have summarized the utilization of conventional and modern approaches to develop herbicide‐resistant cultivars in rice as an effective strategy for weed control in paddy fields, and discussed the technology and research directions for creating herbicide‐resistant rice in the future.
Bacteriome and mycobiome dysbiosis in oral mucosal dysplasia and oral cancer
Authors: Belibasakis Georgios N. , Seneviratne Chaminda Jayampath , Jayasinghe Ruwan Duminda , Vo Phuc Thi‐Duy , Bostanci Nagihan , Choi Youngnim
Published: March 2024

It has long been considered that the oral microbiome is tightly connected to oral health and that dysbiotic changes can be detrimental to the occurrence and progression of dysplastic oral mucosal lesions or oral cancer. Improved understanding of the concepts of microbial dysbiosis together with advances in high‐throughput molecular sequencing of these pathologies have charted in greater microbiological detail the nature of their clinical state. This review discusses the bacteriome and mycobiome associated with oral mucosal lesions, oral candidiasis, and oral squamous cell carcinoma, aiming to delineate the information available to date in pursuit of advancing diagnostic and prognostic utilities for oral medicine.
Fanon's approach to phenomenology and psychoanalysis
Authors: Gordon Lewis R.
Published: March 2024

This article distinguishes thought on phenomenology and psychoanalysis versus doing phenomenology and psychoanalysis and argues that while Fanon was primarily concerned with the latter, his thought also offers contributions to the former. They include methodological critique and an interrogation into the human sciences that includes a psychoanalytical decolonial critical reflection on science linked to open possibilities of human conditions.
First‐Generation Female Professors from Low‐Income Families in Pakistan: The Influence of Parents on Access to and Involvement in Higher Education
Authors: Sadaf Fouzia , Bano Shermeen , Rahat Rahla
Published: March 2024

This paper presents findings of qualitative analysis of female professors' views about the role of their parents' attitudes and family backgrounds in shaping their access to and participation in university education in Pakistan. Structural barriers in the form of lack of education, in particular, high education facilities and opportunities were linked to disadvantaged rural places of residence and geographical inequities, whereas parental values of believing in the importance of gaining professional education were commonly highlighted across the sample. Similarly, the family culture of encouraging and supporting children's education, and parental role in overcoming barriers in gaining access to university education were more likely reported than traditional gender role beliefs and gendered practices. Additionally, parents' positive and reinforcing attitudes toward their daughters' education played a mediating role in shaping study participants' academic dispositions and agencies that lead to their academic and career success. The analysis revealed that parents' positive educational values, encouraging attitudes, and supportive behaviors for their daughters were embedded in parents' personal histories and experiences of deprived status in education and occupational attainments.