bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PlantFUNCO: Integrative Functional Genomics Database Reveals Clues into Duplicates Divergence Evolution
Authors: Roces Víctor , Guerrero Sara , Álvarez Ana , Pascual Jesús , Meijón Mónica
Published: February 2024

Evolutionary epigenomics and, more generally, evolutionary functional genomics, are emerging fields that study how non-DNA-encoded alterations in gene expression regulation are an important form of plasticity and adaptation. Previous evidence analyzing plants’ comparative functional genomics has mostly focused on comparing same assay-matched experiments, missing the power of heterogeneous datasets for conservation inference. To fill this gap, we developed PlantFUN(ctional)CO(nservation) database, which is constituted by several tools and two main resources: interspecies chromatin states and functional genomics conservation scores, presented and analyzed in this work for three well-established plant models (Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, and Zea mays). Overall, PlantFUNCO elucidated evolutionary information in terms of cross-species functional agreement. Therefore, providing a new complementary comparative-genomics source for assessing evolutionary studies. To illustrate the potential applications of this database, we replicated two previously published models predicting genetic redundancy in A. thaliana and found that chromatin states are a determinant of paralogs degree of functional divergence. These predictions were validated based on the phenotypes of mitochondrial alternative oxidase knockout mutants under two different stressors. Taking all the above into account, PlantFUNCO aim to leverage data diversity and extrapolate molecular mechanisms findings from different model organisms to determine the extent of functional conservation, thus, deepening our understanding of how plants epigenome and functional noncoding genome have evolved. PlantFUNCO is available at https://rocesv.github.io/PlantFUNCO.
Experimental demonstration of topological bounds in quantum metrology
Authors: Yu Min , Li Xiangbei , Chu Yaoming , Mera Bruno , Ünal F Nur , Yang Pengcheng , Liu Yu , Goldman Nathan , Cai Jianming
Published: February 2024

Quantum metrology is deeply connected to quantum geometry, through the fundamental notion of quantum Fisher information. Inspired by advances in topological matter, it was recently suggested that the Berry curvature and Chern numbers of band structures can dictate strict lower bounds on metrological properties, hence establishing a strong connection between topology and quantum metrology. In this work, we provide a first experimental verification of such topological bounds, by performing optimal quantum multi-parameter estimation and achieving the best possible measurement precision. By emulating the band structure of a Chern insulator, we experimentally determine the metrological potential across a topological phase transition, and demonstrate strong enhancement in the topologically non-trivial regime. Our work opens the door to metrological applications empowered by topology, with potential implications for quantum many-body systems.
A gendered assessment of police officers’ views towards promotion, specialized units, and expected rank at retirement
Authors: Somers Logan J , Geoghan Stephanie , Terrill William
Published: February 2024

Women are vastly underrepresented among the police officers who work in supervisory and specialized unit capacities. While prior research has identified numerous potential barriers to the advancement of women within policing, there have been few direct comparisons of how these factors might differentially impact male and female officers when it comes to the importance they place on being promoted, moving to a specialized unit, and their expected rank at retirement. To help address these limitations, the current study draws on survey data from a sample of 565 patrol officers employed at a large metropolitan agency. Using a series of multivariate analyses, factors such as officer gender, race, tenure, and job satisfaction were all found to be consistently linked with the outcome variables. The gender-specific models also uncovered that while being a parent had a marginal negative association with female officers’ views towards the importance of moving to a specialized unit, having prior military experience was positively linked with specialized unit importance among women. Further, female officers were also more likely to choose detective as their expected rank at retirement when compared to males. With these findings in mind, this study closes with a discussion of several policy implications and areas for future research to expand.
Identification of Parkinson's disease subtypes with distinct brain atrophy progression and its association with clinical progression
Authors: Pan Guoqing , Jiang Yuchao , Zhang Wei , Zhang Xuejuan , Wang Linbo , Cheng Wei
Published: February 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) patients suffer from progressive gray matter volume (GMV) loss, but whether distinct patterns of atrophy progression exist within PD are still unclear.

Objective

This study aims to identify PD subtypes with different rates of GMV loss and assess their association with clinical progression.

Methods

This study included 107 PD patients (mean age: 60.06 ± 9.98 years, 70.09% male) with baseline and ≥ 3-year follow-up structural MRI scans. A linear mixed-effects model was employed to assess the rates of regional GMV loss. Hierarchical cluster analysis was conducted to explore potential subtypes based on individual rates of GMV loss. Clinical score changes were then compared across these subtypes.

Results

Two PD subtypes were identified based on brain atrophy rates. Subtype 1 (n = 63) showed moderate atrophy, notably in the prefrontal and lateral temporal lobes, while Subtype 2 (n = 44) had faster atrophy across the brain, particularly in the lateral temporal region. Furthermore, subtype 2 exhibited faster deterioration in non-motor (MDS-UPDRS-Part Ⅰ, β = 1.26 ± 0.18, P = 0.016) and motor (MDS-UPDRS-Part Ⅱ, β = 1.34 ± 0.20, P = 0.017) symptoms, autonomic dysfunction (SCOPA-AUT, β = 1.15 ± 0.22, P = 0.043), memory (HVLT-Retention, β = −0.02 ± 0.01, P = 0.016) and depression (GDS, β = 0.26 ± 0.083, P = 0.019) compared to subtype 1.

Conclusion

The study has identified two PD subtypes with distinct patterns of atrophy progression and clinical progression, which may have implications for developing personalized treatment strategies.
Differences in maternal–newborn ABO blood groups and risk of serious infant infection
Authors: Butler E A , Grandi S M , Matai L , Wang X , Cohen E , Ray J G
Published: February 2024

Background

During pregnancy, various maternal IgG antibodies are transferred to the developing fetus, some of which may protect the newborn against infection. If a mother and her fetus have different A, B or O (ABO) blood groups, then transferred maternal antibodies may plausibly protect the infant against infection.

Aim

To determine if maternal–newborn ABO blood group incongruence vs. congruence is associated with a lower risk of serious infection in the infant.

Design

Retrospective population-based cohort.

Methods

We used linked patient-level datasets for all singleton hospital livebirths from 2008 to 2022 in Ontario, Canada, with known maternal and newborn ABO blood groups. We used a dichotomous exposure state, either ABO blood group congruent (N = 114 507) or incongruent (N = 43 074). The main outcome of interest was the risk of serious infant infection within 27 days, and from 28 to 365 days, after birth. Cox proportional hazard models generated hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals, and were adjusted for maternal age, world region of origin, residential income quintile and gestational age at birth.

Results

Relative to maternal–newborn congruency, incongruent ABO blood group was associated with an adjusted hazard ratio of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.80–0.97) for serious neonatal infection within 27 days of birth, and 0.93 (95% CI: 0.90–0.96) for serious infection between 28 and 365 days after birth.

Conclusions

Maternal–newborn ABO incongruence may be associated with a lower relative risk of a serious infant infection within 27 days, and from 28 to 365 days, after birth.
Role of integrin β1 and tenascin C mediate TGF-SMAD2/3 signaling in chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs induced by type I collagen hydrogel
Authors: Huang Yuanjun , Sun Miao , Lu Zhenhui , Zhong Qiuling , Tan Manli , Wei Qingjun , Zheng Li
Published: February 2024

Cartilage defects may lead to severe degenerative joint diseases. Tissue engineering based on type I collagen hydrogel that has chondrogenic potential is ideal for cartilage repair. However, the underlying mechanisms of chondrogenic differentiation driven by type I collagen hydrogel have not been fully clarified. Herein, we explored potential collagen receptors and chondrogenic signaling pathways through bioinformatical analysis to investigate the mechanism of collagen-induced chondrogenesis. Results showed that the super enhancer-related genes induced by collagen hydrogel were significantly enriched in the TGF-β signaling pathway, and integrin-β1 (ITGB1), a receptor of collagen, was highly expressed in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Further analysis showed genes such as COL2A1 and Tenascin C (TNC) that interacted with ITGB1 were significantly enriched in extracellular matrix (ECM) structural constituents in the chondrogenic induction group. Knockdown of ITGB1 led to the downregulation of cartilage-specific genes (SOX9, ACAN, COL2A1), SMAD2 and TNC, as well as the downregulation of phosphorylation of SMAD2/3. Knockdown of TNC also resulted in the decrease of cartilage markers, ITGB1 and the SMAD2/3 phosphorylation but overexpression of TNC showed the opposite trend. Finally, in vitro and in vivo experiments confirmed the involvement of ITGB1 and TNC in collagen-mediated chondrogenic differentiation and cartilage regeneration. In summary, we demonstrated that ITGB1 was a crucial receptor for chondrogenic differentiation of BMSCs induced by collagen hydrogel. It can activate TGF-SMAD2/3 signaling, followed by impacting TNC expression, which in turn promotes the interaction of ITGB1 and TGF-SMAD2/3 signaling to enhance chondrogenesis. These may provide concernful support for cartilage tissue engineering and biomaterials development.
Work and life: the relative importance of job quality for general well-being, and implications for social surveys
Authors: Green Francis , Lee Sangwoo , Zou Min , Zhou Ying
Published: February 2024

We investigate the relative importance of variations in job quality in accounting for variations in general well-being among employed people in Europe, the USA, Australia and South Korea. We find that the importance of job quality is everywhere of a similar magnitude to that of health, while both are far more important than other conventional determinants, including education, gender, marital status, parental status, age or household income. Job quality accounts for somewhat more of well-being’s variation among men than among women. Within the majority of European countries, the R2 for the variation accounted for ranges between 14 and 19%. The paper’s findings, alongside rising policy interest, support the allocation of a greater priority for job quality in general socio-economic and labour force surveys than hitherto.
Reassessing Proportionality: Implied Limitations and Judicial Review under Section 6 of the British Nationality Act 1981
Authors: Khan Arfan
Published: February 2024

There exists a lively debate regarding whether proportionality outside of the European Convention on Human Rights is an independent ground for judicial review or overlaps with the Wednesbury Unreasonableness or irrationality ground and is indistinguishable from it.1 This Article contends that proportionality, as a fair balance test, is an implied limitation to a statutory power and, therefore, constitutes an independent test within section 6 of the British Nationality Act 1981 (BNA 1981). Consequently, if a decision is disproportionate, it is amenable to judicial review on the existing ground of illegality. In that case, it is not necessary to consider an independent Wednesbury unreasonableness or irrationality test.
Diversity as Philanthropy: Diversity Ideology among Pastors, Professors, and Professionals of Color
Authors: Okuwobi Oneya Fennell
Published: February 2024

Examinations of diversity ideology have focused primarily on white people and institutions. As a

result, there remains an open question as to the systems of meaning people of color may hold when it comes to diversity. In this article, I analyze 60 semi-structured interviews with employees of color across three organization types: churches, universities, and corporations. I find that employees of color hold a distinct diversity ideology marked by diversity as philanthropy. These employees give of their own time and resources for the collective uplift of constituents of color and use religious, experiential, and altruistic rationales to justify why they do so. Diversity as philanthropy serves as a racial project that upholds existing hierarchies by redistributing organizational power and resources to those who hold a surplus of it. This study has implications for the study of racial inequality and how it is reinforced within organizations through appeals to diversity.
Manufacturing Parameters for the Creation of Clinical-Grade Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Lines From Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Beckenkamp Liziane Raquel , da Silva Camila Gomes , Von Hohendorff Mônica Luiza Immig , Ogliari Karolyn Sassi
Published: February 2024

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are reprogrammed cells with a remarkable capacity for unlimited expansion and differentiation into various cell types. Companies worldwide are actively engaged in developing clinical-grade iPSC lines to address the needs of regenerative medicine, immunotherapies, and precision medicine. However, ensuring the safety and quality of iPSCs is essential, with adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ethical considerations being paramount. Perinatal cell and tissue banks, such as umbilical cord (UC) blood and tissue banks, are emerging as ideal sources for generating iPSCs due to their unique characteristics and GMP compliance. These banks provide access to immature cells with limited environmental exposure, known family and medical histories of donors, and readily available resources, thereby reducing the time and cost associated with personalized treatment strategies. This study describes the establishment of the first clinical-grade iPSC lines from umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells in Brazil. The process involved rigorous quality control measures, safety assessments, and adherence to regulatory standards, resulting in iPSCs with the necessary characteristics for clinical use, including sterility, genomic integrity, and stability. Importantly, the study contributes to the development of a Current Good Manufacturing Practice-compliant iPSC production pipeline in Brazil, using commercially available, chemically defined, and xeno-free products, along with validation by national outsourced laboratories, thereby facilitating the adoption of this technology within the country. The study emphasizes Brazil’s contribution to the progress of translational medicine and the promotion of scientific advancements within the field of regenerative and precision medicine.
Mending the gap: Measurement needs to address policy implementation through a health equity lens
Authors: McLoughlin Gabriella M , Kumanyika Shiriki , Su Yanfang , Brownson Ross C , Fisher Jennifer O , Emmons Karen M
Published: February 2024

Policies represent a key opportunity to improve the health outcomes of populations, and if implemented well, can reduce disparities affecting marginalized populations. Many policies are only evaluated on whether they elicit their intended health outcome. However, a lack of understanding regarding if and how they are implemented may hinder the intended impact overall and on addressing health disparities. Implementation science offers an array of frameworks and methodological approaches for assessing policy delivery, yet few examples exist that meaningfully include health equity as a core focus. This commentary describes the importance of equity-informed implementation measurement by providing case examples and implications for assessment. In addition, we highlight examples of emerging work in policy implementation grounded in health equity with suggested steps for moving the field forward. The ultimate goal is to move toward open-access measurement approaches that can be adapted to study implementation of a variety of policies at different stages of implementation, driven by input from marginalized populations and implementation practitioners, to move the needle on addressing health disparities.
Improve accessibility to evidence-based treatment for insomnia disorder
Authors: Dietch Jessica R , Blok Amanda C , Zhou Eric S
Published: February 2024

The Society of Behavioral Medicine supports increasing access to evidence-based treatment of insomnia by addressing barriers at the patient, provider, and systemic levels including support from government agencies to raise awareness about sleep and sleep disorders, health payors providing fair reimbursement for evidence-based insomnia assessment and therapy consistent with standard of care recommendations, and relevant training programs (e.g. psychologists, nurses, physicians, social workers, licensed professional counselors) to prioritize sleep health education.
Fabricating Sockets With Distance Sensors for Monitoring Prosthesis Use and Socket Fit
Authors: Ballesteros Daniel , Carter Ryan V. , Allyn Katheryn J. , Lanahan Conor R. , Krout Adam J. , Hafner Brian J. , Sanders Joan E.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

In previous research, we developed and implemented novel inductive sensors to detect the motion of a prosthesis user’s residual limb in the prosthetic socket.

Materials and Methods

In this article, methods for installing the inductive sensors within the wall of a prosthetic socket are described. The sensors are flexible, 32 mm in diameter, and less than 0.2 mm thick. Two sensor placement configurations are described, one to monitor prosthesis use and the other to monitor socket fit.

Results

The sensors are installed after the inner resin layer of the socket is completed. Installation of the sensors increases the fabrication time over that of a traditional laminated socket by about 6 hours.

Conclusions

A systematic and repeatable method for manufacturing prosthetic sockets with embedded distance sensors was developed to facilitate adoption of this technique.

Clinical Relevance

Dissemination of the fabrication technique to install inductive distance sensors in sockets may facilitate clinical research investigation using this new technology, ultimately improving decision making for treatment, diagnosis, and prognosis of health issues faced by people with lower-limb amputation.
Emerging evidence for glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists in slowing chronic kidney disease progression
Authors: Holliday Michael W. , Frost Livia , Navaneethan Sankar D.
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

Diabetic kidney disease continues to increase, and several novel therapeutic agents have been shown to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease in those with diabetes. This review summarizes more recent data on the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and kidney outcomes.

Recent findings

Posthoc analysis of cardiovascular outcome trials, as well as several retrospective studies, demonstrate benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy for chronic kidney disease progression in diabetics. Although limited randomized clinical trials evidence assessing the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on kidney outcomes in diabetic chronic kidney disease patients have been published, FLOW-CKD trial was halted based on interim data for efficacy, and results are awaited.

GLP-1 receptor agonism is a promising therapy for slowing the progression of diabetic chronic kidney disease. Recent studies support kidney benefits GLP-1 receptor agonists over insulin and dipeptidyl peptidase-4-inhibitors, and the FLOW-CKD trial would inform the potential benefits for reducing the need for dialysis and kidney-disease related mortality in those with kidney disease.
Association of red blood cell distribution width with mortality among multiple trauma patients
Authors: Shahmoradi Mohammad K. , Khoshdani Farahani Parham , Pak Haleh , Sharifian Masoud , Beiranvand Mania
Published: February 2024

Background:

Identifying the severity of trauma to provide timely and adequate treatment and predict the prognosis are some of the significant challenges in trauma management. Increased red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is associated with several pathologies and associated mortality. This study aims to evaluate the RDW in predicting 24 h and 30-day mortality among multiple trauma patients.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, multiple trauma patients with ISS ≤16 were included. Blood samples of the patients were collected at 1 h and 24 h of the referral to determine RDW. Demographic data, 24 h and 30-day mortality, injury severity score (ISS), and RDW outcomes were evaluated for all the patients.

Results:

Of the 300 patients included in the study, 52 patients died in the first 24 h, and 85 patients within 30 days. One hour and 24 h RDW were not significantly different in 30-day mortality patients, P=0.104 and P=0.156, respectively. RDW in 30-day mortality patients was not significantly different at 1 h and 24 h, P-value=0.875. The means ISS in 24 h, 30-day mortality and survivors was significantly different, P<0.001.

Conclusion:

Our study does not report a significant increase in RDW among 24 h and 30-day mortality and survivor patients. ISS was significantly different among the two groups.
The duration of spinal anaesthesia in elective caesarean section in Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positions: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mashak Banafsheh , Pouryaghobi Seyyed Mohsen , Hashemnejad Maryam , Farahani Masoumeh , Rahimi Susan , Ataee Mina
Published: February 2024

Objective:

One of the common methods of anaesthesia for caesarean sections (CSs) involves the use of spinal anaesthesia in mothers. Various positions are utilized in this method. This study aims to compare the evaluation of two positions, Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg, in candidates for CS to assess the duration of anaesthesia and changes in vital signs in women.

Methods:

This study was a randomized clinical trial in which 60 pregnant mothers who met the inclusion criteria entered the study. These mothers were randomly allocated into two equal groups using block randomization. One group of patients received spinal anaesthesia in the Trendelenburg position, while the other group received it in the Reverse Trendelenburg position. Vital signs (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, Apgar score, and SPO2) of participants from both groups were evaluated for 1 h after the induction of anaesthesia. Additionally, sensory level and duration of anaesthesia were measured. Finally, the data from both groups were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 26 software.

Results:

The mean (SD) age of participating mothers in the Reverse Trendelenburg and Trendelenburg groups was 28.93 (5.82) and 30.97 (4.94), respectively. The two study groups did not significantly differ in baseline characteristics such as age, BMI, which could potentially impact vital sign outcomes or anaesthesia duration, and education (P>0.05). The mean (SD) duration of anaesthesia in the Trendelenburg position was significantly higher than in the Reverse Trendelenburg position [221.57(min) vs. 159.00(min)] (P<0.0001). There was no significant difference between the two positions, Trendelenburg and Reverse Trendelenburg, in terms of sensory level and its extent (P=0.08). The two study groups did not significantly differ in hemodynamic changes measured 13 times, including heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and Apgar score (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

In spinal anaesthesia with the Trendelenburg position compared to the Reverse Trendelenburg position, there is a longer duration of anaesthesia. This is while the two positions did not differ in terms of hemodynamic changes and sensory level.
Brain N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate is associated with cognitive function in older virally suppressed people with HIV
Authors: Wiseman Robyn L. , Bigos Kristin L. , Dastgheyb Raha M. , Barker Peter B. , Rubin Leah H. , Slusher Barbara S.
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

Cognitive impairment persists in virally suppressed people with HIV (VS-PWH) especially in higher order domains. One cortical circuit, linked to these domains, is regulated byN-acetyl-aspartyl glutamate (NAAG), the endogenous agonist of the metabotropic glutamate receptor 3. The enzyme glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) catabolizes NAAG and is upregulated in aging and disease. Inhibition of GCPII increases brain NAAG and improves learning and memory in rodent and primate models.

Design:

As higher order cognitive impairment is present in VS-PWH, and NAAG has not been investigated in earlier magnetic resonance spectroscopy studies (MRS), we investigated if brain NAAG levels measured by MRS were associated with cognitive function.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 7-Tesla MRS data from a previously published study on cognition in older VS-PWH. The original study did not separately quantify NAAG, therefore, work for this report focused on relationships between regional NAAG levels in frontal white matter (FWM), left hippocampus, left basal ganglia and domain-specific cognitive performance in 40 VS-PWH after adjusting for confounds. Participants were older than 50 years, negative for affective and neurologic disorders, and had no prior 3-month psychoactive-substance use.

Results:

Higher NAAG levels in FWM were associated with better attention/working memory. Higher left basal ganglia NAAG related to better verbal fluency. There was a positive relationship between hippocampal NAAG and executive function which lost significance after correction for confounds.

Conclusion:

These data suggest brain NAAG serves as a biomarker of cognition in VS-PWH. Pharmacological modulation of brain NAAG warrants investigation as a therapeutic approach for cognitive deficits in VS-PWH.
Simplified immune-dysregulation index: A novel marker predicts 28-day mortality of intensive care patients with sepsis
Authors: Liu Shengjun , Zhuge Changjing , Zhang Jiahui , Cui Na , Long Yun
Published: February 2024

Background

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. There is currently no simple immune-imbalance-driven indicator for patients with sepsis.

Methods

This study was conducted in Peking Union Medical College Hospital. Patients with Sepsis were identified according to Sepsis 3.0 after reviewing patient data from May 2018 through October 2022. LASSO logistic regression was used for features selection. Receiver operating characteristic curves for 28-day mortality were used to compare the predictive performance of level of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and lymphocyte count (LY#) with that of the combined ratio, namely, the IL-6/LY# ratio. A Cox hazard model was also employed to test the predictive performance of IL-6/LY# versus several other measurements. The dynamic trend of IL-6/LY# based on Day 1 IL-6/LY# level was analyzed.

Results

The mortality rate was 24.5% (220/898) in the study cohort. The LY#, IL-6 level, blood platelet count, SOFA score, APACHE II score, heart rate, age and FiO2level were identified as key factors for predicting 28-day mortality. IL-6/LY# was identified as a core indicator according to LASSO logistic regression analysis. IL-6/LY# was significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (348 (154.6-1371.7) vs. 42.3 (15.4-117.1)). IL-6/LY# yielded a higher area under the curve (0.852 (95% CI 0.820–0.879)) than the level of IL-6 (0.776 (95% CI 0.738-0.809)) and LY# (0.719 (95% CI 0.677–0.755)) separately. Survival analysis of mortality risk versus the IL-6/LY# ratio suggested that IL-6/LY# was significantly more predictive of patient risk than the SOFA score or the other factors (p= 1.5 × 10-33). In trend analysis, as the trend of D1-D3-D7 IL-6/LY# decreases, the morality rate is lower than increase or fluctuate group (42.1% vs 58.3%, 37.9% vs 43.8%, 37.5% vs 38.5% in high, moderate and low D1 IL-6/LY# group separately).

Conclusions

IL-6/LY# examined on first day in ICU can be used as an immune-imbalance alert to identifies sepsis patients with higher risk of 28-day mortality. Decreasing trend of IL-6/LY# suggest lower 28-day mortality rate of sepsis patients.
NEAR-INFRARED DYE IR-780 ALLEVIATES HEMATOPOIETIC SYSTEM DAMAGE BY PROMOTING HEMATOPOIETIC STEM CELLS INTO QUIESCENCE
Authors: Wu Jie , Ma Le , Gong Qiang , Chen Yan , Chen Long , Shi Chunmeng
Published: February 2024

Potential radiation exposure is a general concern, but there still lacks radioprotective countermeasures. Here, we found a small molecular near-infrared dye IR-780, which promoted hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) into quiescence to resist stress. When mice were treated with IR-780 before stress, increased HSC quiescence and better hematopoietic recovery were observed in mice in stress conditions. However, when given after radiation, IR-780 did not show obvious benefit. Transplantation assay and colony-forming assay were carried out to determine self-renewal ability and repopulation capacity of HSCs. Furthermore, IR-780 pretreatment reduced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and DNA damage in HSCs after radiation. In homeostasis, the percentage of Lineage−, Sca-1+, and c-Kit+cells and long-term HSCs (LT-HSCs) were improved, and more HSCs were in G0 state after administration of IR-780. Further investigations showed that IR-780 selectively accumulated in mitochondria membrane potential high LT-HSCs (MMP-high LT-HSCs). Finally, IR-780 promoted human CD34+HSC reconstruction ability in NOD-PrkdcscidIl2rgnullmice after transplantation and improved repopulation capacityin vitroculture. Our research showed that IR-780 selectively entered MMP-high LT-HSCs and promoted them into dormancy, thus reducing hematopoietic injury and improving regeneration capacity. This novel approach might hold promise as a potential countermeasure for radiation injury.
High-Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation–Primed Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation in Treatment-Resistant Depression
Authors: Jaiswal Alankrit , Goyal Nishant , Shreekantiah Umesh
Published: February 2024

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a common problem faced by clinicians worldwide with no agreed upon treatment protocol. Priming is a technique that can enhance the sensitivity of the brain to therapy using techniques that increase or decrease the excitability of the cortex. Studies on cross-modality priming remain sparse.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HDtDCS) priming improves the efficacy of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) in improving TRD.

Methodology

A prospective hospital-based, randomized control study where the participants were divided into active or sham HDtDCS-primed iTBS stimulation groups for a total of 10 sessions and were assessed on clinical parameters at baseline, end of week 1, and end of week 2 was done. Primary outcome of the study was the difference in Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores over 2 weeks of HDtDCS-primed iTBS.

Result

A significant effect of time was seen over HDRS scores in both active and sham groups with a large effect size. Significant effect of time was also found over the Clinical Global Impressions-Severity Scale scores of patients with a large effect size. The difference in the improvement in depressive severity as measured using HDRS and Clinical Global Impressions-Severity Scale scores between active and sham groups was also found to be significant with large effect sizes.

Conclusion

High-definition tDCS–primed iTBS is superior to normal iTBS in patients with depression who have failed a trial of 2 antidepressants, whereas both mechanisms are of benefit to the patients.
XFEL structure of carbonic anhydrase II: a comparative study of XFEL, NMR, X-ray and neutron structures
Authors: Hull Joshua A. , Lee Cheol , Kim Jin Kyun , Lim Seon Woo , Park Jaehyun , Park Sehan , Lee Sang Jae , Park Gisu , Eom Intae , Kim Minseok , Hyun HyoJung , Combs Jacob E. , Andring Jacob T. , Lomelino Carrie , Kim Chae Un , McKenna Robert
Published: February 2024

The combination of X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) with serial femtosecond crystallography represents cutting-edge technology in structural biology, allowing the study of enzyme reactions and dynamics in real time through the generation of `molecular movies'. This technology combines short and precise high-energy X-ray exposure to a stream of protein microcrystals. Here, the XFEL structure of carbonic anhydrase II, a ubiquitous enzyme responsible for the interconversion of CO2 and bicarbonate, is reported, and is compared with previously reported NMR and synchrotron X-ray and neutron single-crystal structures.
The fight for our personal data: analyzing the economics of data and privacy on digital platforms
Authors: Iman Nofie
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Personal data is a powerful tool. The more someone know about us, the more power they got over us. But who will control the most of our personal data? Does the government and the big tech really care about our personal data? This paper aims to look at data practices, data-related policy making as well as its economic consequences in the context of emerging economies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative methods such as literature review and analysis of numerous government documents, this paper inquires into the dynamics in the use of data by the business sectors, explains how data governance can add value to the business sectors while ensuring customers’ data privacy protection based on the data governance mechanism framework and details what it takes.

Findings

Using the case of Indonesian recent development on data privacy regulation, this paper describes the problems and threats to personal data protection. The advent of latest computing and mobile technology is shifting power relations between the governments, the big tech, as well as the end users. To conclude, the strategy and policy recommendations for implementing data privacy protection are also presented.

Originality/value

This paper provides a timely synthesis of data practices in the context of developing countries, particularly in relation to policy making and economic consequences. This paper also identifies and shares several promising future research ideas.
Intraspecific genetic divergence of the subalpine shrubby variety Quercus crispula var. horikawae from the mountain tree variety Q. crispula var. crispula in Japan
Authors: San Jose‐Maldia Lerma , Matsumoto Asako , Nagamitsu Teruyoshi , Ueno Saneyoshi , Tsumura Yoshihiko
Published: February 2024

Ecotypic divergence in tree taxa often occurs in subalpine habitats, where environmental conditions are more stressful than those in lower elevations. In the white oak species in Japan Quercus crispula, the subalpine shrubby variety Q. crispula var. horikawae (Qch) has been recognized in central and northern Honshu. Although Qch has different phenotypes from Q. crispula var. crispula (Qcc), genetic divergence between Qcc and Qch has not been examined yet. Pairs of Qcc and Qch populations in eight locations and additional Qcc and Qch populations around these locations were investigated. Leaf size of Qch was smaller than that of Qcc. Chloroplast DNA haplotypes were shared between the Qcc and Qch populations. In genotypes at 29 nuclear microsatellite loci, genetic diversity did not differ between the Qcc and Qch populations. Principal component analysis and a neighbor‐joining tree of populations based on the genotypes demonstrated that 13 Qcc populations and eight Qch populations were grouped separately, except for three Qch populations that were grouped to Qcc. Climatic conditions in the eight Qch populations were characterized by lower temperature and heavier snowfall than those in the 16 populations of the genetic group of Qcc. These results suggest genetic divergence between Qcc and Qch associated with subalpine climatic conditions, irrespective of leaf size. The origin of the subalpine Qch lineage and the history of ecotypic divergence should be investigated in future genomic studies.
The Challenge of ‘Factual Hard Cases’ for Guilty Plea Regimes
Authors: Helm Rebecca K.
Published: February 2024

This article examines how defendant self‐conviction via guilty plea changes the application of criminal law, specifically in cases in which there is no right answer as to whether a defendant is guilty prior to trial, despite agreement over descriptive facts. These cases are referred to as ‘factual hard cases’. It suggests that defendants trying themselves in these cases creates risks for defendants and criminal justice systems – the application of law becomes driven by defendant judgement, with accompanying imprudence, vulnerability, and subjectivity, and an expressive function of the criminal trial is stifled. The results of an original empirical study are presented to demonstrate these risks. The article argues that as a result of these risks, and the decoupling of guilty pleas from ethical behaviours, factual hard cases present a challenge to existing plea‐based reduction regimes and demonstrate the need for careful thought about what guilty pleas are and why we reward them.
DNA recovery after sequential processing of latent fingerprints on black polyethylene plastic
Authors: Bathrick Abigail S. , Norsworthy Sarah , Plaza Dane T. , McCormick Mallory N. , Slack Donia , Ramotowski Robert S.
Published: February 2024

Latent fingerprints on plastic substrates can be visualized by using sequential treatments to enhance the contrast between the fingerprint residues and underlying substrate; however, the extent to which these processes affect subsequent DNA analysis is mostly unknown. Latent fingerprints deposited on black plastic by one donor were visualized with single‐process fingerprint powders (i.e., white powder, bichromatic powder, or bichromatic magnetic powder) or sequential treatments (i.e., laser → reflected ultraviolet imaging system (RUVIS) → CA fuming → RUVIS → Rhodamine 6G, Ardrox, and MBD (RAM) or CA fuming → RAM/laser → bichromatic magnetic powder). Samples were examined after the addition of each treatment. DNA was collected using cotton swabs, extracted, quantified, and amplified. DNA yields, peak heights, number of alleles obtained, and percentage of DNA profiles eligible for CODIS upload were examined. Latent fingerprints processed with the laser and up to three sequential treatments generated DNA profiles with significantly higher peaks heights than those of the untreated samples. Fingerprints processed with the laser and up to two sequential treatments generated DNA profiles with significantly more alleles. All methods beginning with laser enhancement generated more CODIS‐eligible profiles. Additional research is needed to determine the extent to which initial laser enhancement impacts the success of downstream DNA profiling results. Although DNA profile development is not guaranteed due to the variable quantities of DNA contained within latent fingerprints, the selection of an appropriate latent fingerprint visualization method could maximize both fingerprint detection and the generation of CODIS‐eligible DNA profiles.
Gabapentin in drugged driving investigations
Authors: Bierly Jolene J. , Chan‐Hosokawa Ayako
Published: February 2024

The increasing use and misuse of gabapentin pose a major risk to public health and traffic safety. Gabapentin has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1993 for adjunctive therapy in the treatment of epilepsy and neuralgia but is increasingly being prescribed for numerous off‐label uses including insomnia, anxiety, depression, and migraine. Reported side effects include blurred vision, drowsiness, and loss of coordination. Driving behaviors such as exiting the lane of travel and crashes have been reported in connection to drugged driving investigations concerning gabapentin. To further assist with the toxicological interpretation of gabapentin in driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) scenarios, a review of approximately 108,000 gabapentin‐positive DUID cases was conducted. Of those, 858 cases met inclusion criteria and underwent additional evaluation. Blood specimens were screened via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and confirmed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) for quantitation of gabapentin. This review found an overall DUID gabapentin positivity of 7.9% between January 2020 and December 2022; 17 states from various geographical regions had at least one positive gabapentin DUID case. Observations in six driving and human performance cases where gabapentin was the only drug reported were consistent with the known adverse effects of the medication. Half of the case histories reviewed involved crashes where the driver was determined to be at fault. Additionally, 94% of the cases in this review involved gabapentin in combination with other drugs. The most prevalent drug combinations were opioids and gabapentin present in 64% of cases.
Delimiting the rare, endangered and actively speciating
Authors: Martinet Kristen M. , Harmon Luke J.
Published: February 2024

Species delimitation is a contentious topic. The genomics revolution initially brought hope that identifying and classifying species would be easier through better methods and more data, but genomics has also brought complexity and controversy to delimitation. One solution can be to collect a larger sample of individuals at a finer geographic scale. But what if taxa are rare and collecting more samples is difficult or detrimental to the organisms at hand? In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Opatova et al. (2023) tackle the ambiguity of species delimitation in rare and endangered trapdoor spiders (genus Cyclocosmia). The authors propose a framework for delimiting species when samples are hard to come by, such as in these rare and cryptic spiders. The authors combine extensive genomic sampling with statistical approaches that consider both the genetic distinctiveness of each population of spiders and how much gene flow occurs between these populations. Their proposed taxonomy balances two opposing signals, structure and gene flow, to count eight lineages of Cyclocosmia, and to point the way for future taxonomic studies of the rare or difficult to obtain.
Theacrine enhances autophagy and inhibits inflammation via regulating SIRT3/FOXO3a/Parkin pathway
Authors: Li Jin , Yan Wenliang , Yuan Hongshan , Ren Fang
Published: February 2024

Background

Psoriasis, a common chronic inflammatory skin condition, impacts around 2%–3% of the global population. Theacrine is recognized for its potential anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the role of theacrine in psoriasis remains unclear.

Purposes

To investigate the effects of theacrine on psoriasis and explore the underlying signaling pathways.

Methods

For imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced Psoriasis‐like mice, the psoriatic inflammation was monitored using Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI). The skin damage was observed using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The KI67 and CD4 in skin tissues were assessed using Immunohistochemistry analysis. Western blots were performed to evaluate the expression of Keratin 1 (KRT1), KRT6, LC3, P62, Beclin1, T‐bet, GATA3, RAR‐related orphan receptor (ROR)‐γt, Sirtuin‐3 (SIRT3), Forkhead Box O3a (FOXO3a) and Parkin. Additionally, LC3B expression was analyzed using an immunofluorescent assay, while flow cytometry was performed to analyze the percentage of Th17, Th1, and Th2 positive cells in skin‐draining lymph node.

Results

Theacrine improved skin condition by reducing hyperkeratosis and acanthosis, lowering PASI scores, and decreasing KI67‐positive cells. Theacrine also modulated keratin expression, elevating KRT1 while reducing KRT6 levels. Theacrine enhanced autophagy indicated by an increased LC3‐II/LC3‐I ratio and Beclin1, while reduced P62 levels. Additionally, Theacrine reduced CD4‐positive cells and suppressed Th17 and Th1 cell activation. Theacrine activated the FOXO3a/Parkin pathway by upregulating SIRT3 expression, and down‐regulation of SIRT3 counteracted theacrine's effects in psoriasis‐like mice.

Conclusion

Theacrine inhibits skin damage, promotes autophagy, and mediates inflammation in IMQ‐induced psoriasis mice via upregulating SIRT3 to activate FOXO3a/Parkin pathway, positioning theacrine as a candidate for psoriasis treatment.
Long‐term efficacy, safety, and cumulative retention rate of antitumor necrosis factor‐alpha treatment for patients with Behcet's uveitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guan Xin , Zhao Zerui , Xin Miaomiao , Xia Guangtao , Yang Qingrui , Fu Min
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aims to evaluate the long‐term efficacy, safety, and cumulative retention rate of antitumor necrosis factor‐alpha (anti‐TNF‐α) therapy for patients with Behcet's uveitis (BU) using meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched the Web of Science and PubMed databases for eligible studies up to December 1, 2022. The quality of each identified study was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's case series literature quality assessment tool. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata 16.0 software with a random‐effects model.

Results

Twelve studies comprising 1156 patients with BU were included in our analysis. We found that 85.0% of patients achieved ocular inflammation remission after receiving anti‐TNF‐α treatment, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) ranging from 78.7% to 90.5%. Additionally, 77.4% (95% CI: 57.5%–92.5%) experienced an improvement in visual acuity (VA). Moreover, the pooled dose reduction of glucocorticoids (GCs) was 11.08 mg (95% CI: −13.34 mg to −8.83 mg). Throughout the follow‐up period, the cumulative retention rate of the medication was 67.3% (95% CI: 53.7%–79.6%). Serious adverse events occurred in 5.8% (95% CI: 3.1%–8.9%) of cases, with the three most common types being severe infusion or injection reactions (2.7%; 95% CI: 0.8%–5.4%), tuberculosis (1.3%; 95% CI: 0.0%–3.9%), and bacterial pneumonia (1.3%; 95% CI: 0.1%–3.4%). Subgroup analysis revealed that ocular inflammation remission rates were 89.3% (95% CI: 81.2%–95.5%) for adalimumab treatment and 83.7% (95% CI: 75.3%–90.8%) for infliximab treatment. The drug retention rate after adalimumab therapy was 70.3% (95% CI: 62.0%–78.0%) compared to 66.4% (95% CI: 48.6%–82.2%) for infliximab treatment. Furthermore, the incidence of severe infusion or injection reactions was 2.2% (95% CI: 0.1%–5.8%) following adalimumab treatment and 3.5% (95% CI: 0.7%–7.7%) following infliximab treatment.

Conclusions

Anti‐TNF‐α therapy represents an effective treatment for BU patients with favorable safety profile and high drug retention rate and a potential advantage of adalimumab over infliximab in terms of ocular inflammation remission, drug retention, and the incidence of severe infusion or injection reactions.