bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing carotenoid production in Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous/Phaffia rhodozyma: SREBP pathway activation and promoter engineering
Authors: Durán Alejandro , Venegas Maximiliano , Barahona Salvador , Sepúlveda Dionisia , Baeza Marcelo , Cifuentes Víctor , Alcaíno Jennifer
Published: November 2024

The yeast Xanthophyllomyces dendrorhous synthesizes astaxanthin, a high-value carotenoid with biotechnological relevance in the nutraceutical and aquaculture industries. However, enhancing carotenoid production through strain engineering remains an ongoing challenge. Recent studies have demonstrated that carotenogenesis in X. dendrorhous is regulated by the SREBP pathway, which includes the transcription factor Sre1, particularly in the mevalonate pathway that also produces precursors used for ergosterol synthesis. In this study, we explored a novel approach to enhance carotenoid synthesis by replacing the native crtE promoter, which drives geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthesis (the step where carotenogenesis diverges from ergosterol biosynthesis), with the promoter of the HMGS gene, which encodes 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase from the mevalonate pathway. The impact of this substitution was evaluated in two mutant strains that already overproduce carotenoids due to the presence of an active Sre1 transcription factor: CBS.cyp61-, which does not produce ergosterol and strain CBS.SRE1N.FLAG, which constitutively expresses the active form of Sre1. Wild-type strain CBS6938 was used as a control. Our results showed that this modification increased the crtE transcript levels more than threefold and fourfold in CBS.cyp61−.pHMGS/crtE and CBS.SRE1N.FLAG.pHMGS/crtE, respectively, resulting in 1.43-fold and 1.22-fold increases in carotenoid production. In contrast, this modification did not produce significant changes in the wild-type strain, which lacks the active Sre1 transcription factor under the same culture conditions. This study highlights the potential of promoter substitution strategies involving genes regulated by Sre1 to enhance carotenoid production, specifically in strains where the SREBP pathway is activated, offering a promising avenue for strain improvement in industrial applications.
Perceived lack of behavioral control is a barrier to a healthy lifestyle in post-menopause: a qualitative study
Authors: Khademi Khadijeh , Kaveh Mohammad Hossein , Nazari Mahin , Asadollahi Abdolrahim
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but the quality of life and health of postmenopausal women are often compromised by unhealthy lifestyles. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the factors that influence their well-being. The main objective of this study is to explore the barriers to a healthy lifestyle among Iranian postmenopausal women.

Methods

Qualitative exploratory research was conducted among postmenopausal women aged 45–65 years in three different health centers located in urban areas with varying economic level in a central city of Iran. These areas represented upscale, downtown, and downscale areas with different economic statuses (wealthy, relatively wealthy, and less wealthy). Nine focus group discussions were held, focusing on managing menopausal symptoms, physical activity, and healthy nutrition. Each topic was discussed separately in a different health center, with 10 women participating in each session. Data analysis was conducted using Graneheim and Lundman’s method.

Results

The study revealed a prominent theme, “perceived lack of behavioral control as a barrier to a healthy lifestyle in post-menopause.” Two categories, “False attitudes” and “Perceived inability to engage in behavior,” were derived from 26 codes related to managing menopausal symptoms. Furthermore, a category, “Perceived inability to engage in behavior,” was formed from 11 to 13 codes related to physical activity and healthy nutrition, respectively. The theme highlighted that the perceived lack of behavioral control prevented the women from adopting a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

Improving perceived behavioral control through the modification of attitudes and abilities is essential for maintaining a healthy postmenopausal lifestyle.
Functional difficulty among children in Malaysia – findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019
Authors: Sahril Norhafizah , Chan Ying Ying , Ahmad Noor Ani , Aznuddin Abd Razak Mohamad , Rezali Muhammad Solihin , Wahab Nor’Ain Ab , Azlan Kassim Mohd Shaiful , Abdul Rahim Norsyamlina Che
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Data on child functioning and disability are important for public policy development which aimed at reducing child disability prevalence and strengthening the provision of appropriate and timely health care services. This study reports the prevalence of functional difficulty in Malaysian children aged 2–17 years and its associated sociodemographic factors and epilepsy.

Methods

Data on children aged 2–17 years (n = 4576) were generated from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2019, a population-based cross-sectional survey. Functional difficulty in children was assessed using the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)/Washington Group on Disability Statistics (WG) Child Functioning Module (CFM). The questionnaires were administered to the parents or guardians of the children via face-to-face interviews. Functional difficulty, defined as having difficulty in at least one domain, was examined for its prevalence and associations with sociodemographic variables and the epilepsy variable in children using descriptive analysis and multiple logistic regression.

Results

The overall prevalence of functional difficulty among children aged 2–17 years was 4.7%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that older children, children from households whose heads of household had a lower education level and children who have epilepsy were significantly more likely to experience functional difficulty (p < 0.05). Children of Chinese ethnicity were less likely to experience functional difficulty compared to children of Malay ethnicity.

Conclusions

This study provides baseline findings on the prevalence of functional difficulty among children in Malaysia using nationally representative data. Although the prevalence was relatively low, the information is important for the planning of strategies to improve the development and well-being of children in Malaysia and for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Seroprevalence and prognostic value of Aspergillus-specific IgG among non-neutropenic invasive pulmonary aspergillosis patients: a prospective multicenter study
Authors: Lee Meng-Rui , Chang Hsu-Liang , Chen Yung-Hsuan , Liu Chia-Jung , Keng Li-Ta , Huang Hung-Ling , Wang Jann-Yuan , Sheu Chau-Chyun , Chong Inn-Wen
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to assess the diagnostic and prognostic value of Aspergillus-specific IgG (Asp-IgG) for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) in non-neutropenic non-hematologic patients.

Methods

Between November 2019 and February 2022, we recruited 40 non-neutropenic, non-hematologic IPA patients from Taiwan and measured serum Asp-IgG levels using Phadia, Thermofisher. A positive Asp-IgG test was defined as a level > 40 mgA/L. We evaluated the association between Asp-IgG levels and overall survival, as well 90-day mortality rate of IPA patients.

Results

Of the 40 participants, 11 (27.5%) tested positive for Asp-IgG, while 16 (40%) had positive galactomannan antigen (optical density > 1). Higher Asp-IgG levels were associated with improved overall survival (HR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.05–0.99, p = 0.035) in multivariable Cox regression. The overall 90-day mortality rate was 65% (26/40). We found that patients with low Asp-IgG levels (≤ 40 mgA/L) had a borderline higher 90-day mortality rate compared to patients with high Asp-IgG levels (OR: 3.15, 95% CI: 0.75–13.28, p = 0.118). Stratifying by serum galactomannan and Aspergillus IgG levels, patients with elevated serum GM and low Asp-IgG had the highest 90-day mortality (80%, 8/10), followed by patients with low serum GM and low Asp-IgG (68.4%, 13/19).

Conclusions

Asp-IgG was positive in approximately one-fourth of non-neutropenic IPA patients. Asp-IgG may hold potential as a clinical prognostic factor for IPA. Further studies are required to validate this finding.
Coping difficulties after inpatient hospital treatment: validity and reliability of the German version of the post-discharge coping difficulty scale
Authors: Marsall Matthias , Hornung Thorsten , Bäuerle Alexander , Weiss Marianne E. , Teufel Martin , Weigl Matthias
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients transitioning between different care contexts are at increased risk of experiencing adverse events. In particular, being discharged to home after inpatient treatment involves significant risks. However, there is a lack of valid and internationally comparable assessment tools on patients’ experiences of difficulties following hospital discharge. Therefore, this study aimed to adapt and validate the German version of the post-discharge coping difficulty scale (PDCDS-G).

Methods

Patients were recruited at a German university hospital. 815 adult patients participated in a self-report survey following an inpatient stay of at least three days. Factorial validity of the PDCDS-G was evaluated via factor analyses. Further, examination of measurement invariance was performed. To establish criterion validity, associations with patients’ self-reported health status and occurrence of patient safety were determined. Further, group differences regarding patient characteristics, hospitalization factors, and survey-related variables were examined.

Results

Factorial validity of the PDCDS-G was confirmed by a two-factorial model with good model fit. Both factors showed good to excellent reliability. The two-factor model achieved measurement invariance across all patient characteristics, hospitalization factors, and survey-related variables. Significant relationships with patients’ health status and the occurrence of patient safety incidents corroborate criterion validity of the PDCDS-G. Differential associations of the two PDCDS-G factors regarding patient characteristics, hospitalization, and survey-related variables were found.

Discussion

Construct and criterion validity, as well as the reliability of the PDCDS-G, were verified. Further, instrument’s measurement invariance was confirmed allowing use of the scale for the interpretation of group differences and comparisons between studies.

Conclusions

The PDCDS-G provides a validated and comparable patient-reported outcomes measure for patient experiences after hospital discharge to home. The PDCDS-G can be used for patient surveys in quality or patient safety improvement in care transition processes.
Genomic DNA extraction methods and phylogenetic analysis of Beauveria bassiana from Central Java, Indonesia, and its toxicity against the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Lakshita Natya , Yulani Refista Alida , Wijonarko Arman , Indarti Siwi
Published: November 2024

Background

Control techniques using biological control agents such as Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin have the advantage of not showing any negative impacts on environmental health and safety issues. This study used isolates from B. bassiana collection from Laboratory of Pest Monitoring belonging to Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture (LPHP) in Central Java which showed potential in controlling target pest. The problems that still occur are the lack of facilities and infrastructure and the lack of quality testing of collection isolates in LPHP, so that the isolate identification process is still carried out in simple method, and bioassay testing on the fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) as a target pest, is not commonly conducted. The results of bioassay testing can be used to determine the potential of a biological agent to control target pest.

Result

The two DNA extraction methods showed different results regarding DNA concentration and purity values, but both methods were good and could be used to amplify DNA using PCR. The DNA band was amplified at 500–600 bp using primers ITS 1 and ITS 4. The results of molecular analysis showed that the four isolates of B. bassiana from Central Java were found in the same clade as B. bassiana from South Sumatra, Dhaka, and Oromia, where these isolates showed similar similarities descended from a common ancestor. Genetically, B. bassiana isolates from Central Java show more genetic similarities to B. bassiana isolates from South Sumatra, Indonesia. Quality testing was carried out by calculating the density and germination ability values for LPHP isolates from Sukoharjo (Sukoharjo isolate), Temanggung (Purworejo isolate), and Banyumas (Banyumas and Cilacap isolate), which showed varying results. The bioassay test used three isolates, namely B. bassiana from Sukoharjo, Banyumas, and Cilacap, which were selected based on density values, germination ability, and molecular analysis. The ability to cause death of the three isolates against S. frugiperda showed different results where the isolate from Sukoharjo, Banyumas, and Cilacap caused mortality of 60, 40, and 60%, and the LC50 value of each isolate was 3.3 × 106, 1.3 × 107, and 3.5 × 107 conidia ml−1, respectively.

Conclusion

Morphological identification by macroscopic, microscopic, and molecular analysis showed that the isolate from the LPHP collection in Central Java, Indonesia, was B. bassiana. Genetically, the four isolates showed similar characteristics to isolates from South Sumatra, Indonesia. B. bassiana isolates from collections from Central Java showed potentials as a biological control agent against S. frugiperda.
New Beauveria bassiana aerial conidia-based bioinsecticide obtained by spray-dried microencapsulation of the entomopathogenic fungi in biopolymers for crop protection
Authors: de Jesus Seabra Matheus G. , Santos Tárcio S. , de Souza Varize Camila , Souto Eliana B. , Severino Patrícia , da Costa Mendonça Marcelo
Published: November 2024

Background

Due to their environmentally friendly character, entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are becoming increasingly used as microbial agents in biological pest control over chemical pesticides. However, EPF are sensitive to the influence of abiotic factors, such as temperature, radiation, and humidity. To improve their efficiency as bioinsecticides, in this work, the development of a new microparticles-based formulation loading EPF conidia (B. bassiana aerial conidia) into sodium alginate/maltodextrin microparticles obtained by spray-drying was proposed. Different concentrations of both polysaccharides were tested to reach the optimal ratio and ensure a high viability of encapsulated conidia.

Results

All the produced formulations showed a moisture content < 10% and water activity (aw) < 0.4. Microparticles obtained with 2% sodium alginate and 8% maltodextrin were able to retain 89.5% of the viability of encapsulated conidia, thus being selected for further characterization. Scanning electron microscopy showed microparticles with a smooth surface, varied sizes, and irregular morphology. Microparticles retained 5.44 × 108 conidia/g, presented high hygroscopicity and high suspensibility rate, yet low wettability and water activity (aw) of 0.33. The pH value ranged from 6.46 to 6.62. Microparticles were able to complete release the loaded conidia after 30 min, under constant stirring. When exposed to thermal stress (45 °C), microparticles promoted thermal protection to conidia. Enhanced pathogenicity of B. bassiana conidia against P. xylostella was also confirmed achieving 83.1 ± 5.5%, whereas non-encapsulated conidia reached only 64.8 ± 9.9%.

Conclusions

This study confirms that the encapsulation of B. bassiana fungus conidia in sodium alginate/maltodextrin microparticles by spray-drying is a promising technological approach for the biological control of agricultural pests.
Backup subscription scheme for differential protection using IEC61850-9-2 sampled values
Authors: Katoulaei Mohammad Khalili , Rahmani Aamir , Høidalen Hans Kristian , Oleinikova Irina , Mork Bruce
Published: November 2024

In IEC-61850-based digital substations, the protection IED’s performance is dependent on merging unit’s vendor implementation, communication networks, and measurement circuit’s health conditions. As the process bus Sampled Value(SV) enables the availability of all sensor data on a communication network, this paper proposes a Backup Subscription scheme (BSS) for a transformer differential protection (87T, PDIF) function. BSS utilizes sensor data in digital substations to achieve a flexible protection scheme using a dynamic subscription feature. Thus, in case of failure of one sensor, differential protection would be maintained. The paper presents the implementation and verification of a prototyped scheme using a Hardware-in-the-loop simulation test bed. The main result is that BSS integration into differential protection ensures its dependability and security. Moreover, delay compensation and seamless switching feature increases the availability of differential protection.
Occurrence of virulence genes icaADBC and antibiotic resistance genes blaZ, mecA, and aac(6’)-Ie-aph (2’’)-Ia in coagulase-negative staphylococci isolates from neonates with sepsis at a regional referral hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Charles Anjela John , Majigo Mtebe , Makupa Jackline E. , Kibwana Upendo , Mwazyunga Zivonishe , Mwandigha Ambele M. , Niccodem Elieshiupendo M. , Efraim Joel , Moremi Nyambura , Manyahi Joel , Kamori Doreen , Matee Mecky I. , Joachim Agricola
Published: November 2024

Background

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) have been linked to severe conditions such as bloodstream infection, with biofilm formation regarded as the major virulence mechanism. This study determined virulence genes (VGs) (icaA, icaB, icaC, and icaD) responsible for biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) (blaZ, mecA, and aac(6’)-Ie-aph(2’’)-Ia) in CoNS isolated from blood samples of 70 neonates with sepsis in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We used VITEK®MS (BioMérieux, France) for speciation and phenotypically detected biofilm production using the Congo red agar. Polymerase chain reaction was performed for ARGs and VGs detection; principal component analysis was used to ascertain their relationship.

Results

Out of 70 CoNS, Staphylococcus epidermidis, 27 (36.8%) was the most commonly isolate, subsequently to Staphylococcus haemolyticus, 24 (34.3%). The intercellular adhesion genes (ica) were detected in all isolates, with IcaD found in 70 (100.0%), followed by icaB 69 (98.6%), icaC 69 (98.6%), and icaA 65 (92.9%). Four virulence gene combinations (icaADBC, icaBCD, icaACD, and icaABD) were detected, predominantly icaADBC 63 (90.0%). Sixty-one (87.1%) isolates harbored three ARGs, mostly the mecA gene 69 (98.6%), followed by blaZ 67 (95.7%) and aac (6’)-Ie-aph (2’’)-Ia, 65 (92.7%). We observed a moderate positive correlation between mecA and icaA genes (r = 0.4341). Sixty-five (97.0%) isolates resistant to penicillin harbored blaZ genes, and all 62 (100%) resistant to oxacillin harbored mecA genes. Of the 66 isolates resistant to gentamycin, 62 (93.9%) harbored the aac (6’)-Ie-aph (2’’)-Ia gene. The mecA gene contributed most of the resistance, followed by aac(6’)-Ie-aph(2’’)-Ia genes. However, the icaA and icaD genes significantly influenced the virulence of CoNS.

Conclusions

Most CoNS isolated from blood samples of neonates with sepsis harbor a variety of clinically relevant virulence and resistance genes, indicating their ability to cause severe infections that are difficult to treat. Significantly, 59 (84.3%) isolates were phenotypically penicillin, gentamycin, and oxacillin resistant; the antibiotics recommended in the national guidelines for empiric treatment of neonatal sepsis.
A new leaf inhabiting ascomycete from the Jurassic (ca 170 Mya) of Yorkshire, UK, and insights into the appearance and diversification of filamentous Ascomycota
Authors: Le Renard Ludovic , Strullu-Derrien Christine , Berbee Mary , Coiro Mario
Published: November 2024

Leaf-associated fungi, the fungi that depend on leaves to sporulate, have a rich Cenozoic record, however their earlier diversity is poorly characterized. Here we describe Harristroma eboracense gen. et sp. nov., a Middle Jurassic leaf-associated fungus colonizing the leaf cuticle of Nilssonia tenuicaulis (cycadophyte). To place our newly described species into a picture of the diversification of Mesozoic fungi, we reassess fossils with leaf-associated stromata in the context of fungal molecular phylogeny. Being melanized, with radiate stromata, and on leaves, H. eboracense and other fossils from the Jurassic and earlier periods are probably related to filamentous Ascomycota in the superclass Leotiomyceta. Characters needed for further resolution of leaf-associated fungal biology and classification, such as the presence of an ostiole for spore discharge and appressoria for entry into leaf tissue first appear in the Mesozoic fossil record. Among Early Cretaceous fossils, Spataporthe taylorii represents the oldest unambiguous evidence of perithecial Sordariomycetes while Protographum luttrellii and Bleximothyrium ostiolatum are the oldest Dothideomycetes thyriothecia. Environmental observations show that broad leaved gymnosperms (especially cycadophytes) growing in warm temperate wet forests might have been the first environment for the radiation of Leotiomyceta.
Begomoviruses associated with okra yellow vein mosaic disease (OYVMD): diversity, transmission mechanism, and management strategies
Authors: Davis Thomas Wilbur , Thompson Andrew Nasa
Published: November 2024

Okra yellow vein mosaic disease (OYVMD) is a major constraint to okra production globally. It is caused by several distinct begomoviruses, including okra yellow vein mosaic virus (OYVMV), that are transmitted by the whitefly. This study synthesizes current knowledge on the complex interactions between whiteflies, begomoviruses, and okra plants that enable viral spread and cause OYVMD. The acquisition and transmission cycle involves specific processes including virion ingestion during phloem-feeding, endocytosis and passage across insect tissues, secretion in saliva, and inoculation into plants. Molecular compatibilities between vector coat proteins, midgut proteins, and plant factors modulate virus replication and movement through barrier tissues. Abiotic stresses and host traits also impact whitefly behavior and virus epidemiology. Begomoviruses such as OYVMV have spread globally wherever whitefly vectors and susceptible okra varieties occur. Integrated management of the tripartite pathosystem that incorporates host resistance, cultural tactics, and biological control is required to mitigate the transmission of begomoviruses and OYVMD impact. Finally, resolving vector-virus interactions and developing interference strategies will help contribute to strengthening okra germplasm resistance which can support sustainable food production.
Nonlinear amplitude variation with offset and azimuth inversion for horizontal transverse isotropic media based on the elastic stiffness matrix
Authors: Yang Yaming , Yin Xingyao , Li Kun
Published: November 2024

Transverse isotropy with a horizontal axis of symmetry (HTI) media is generally considered as parallel vertical cracks embedded in an isotropic matrix or vertically dipping shale sequences and is widely used in unconventional hydrocarbon exploration. Inversion of anisotropy parameters for HTI media is important for characterizing fractures and filled fluids. However, owing to the added azimuthal dimension and small contribution of anisotropic parameters, achieving stable inversion of anisotropy parameters from azimuthal seismic data is challenging. A nonlinear amplitude variation with offset and azimuth inversion is developed to address this issue, indirectly predicting the anisotropy using the stiffness matrix. First, P, SV, and SH exact elastic impedance matrices for HTI media characterized by the stiffness matrix are derived from Hooke’s law and used to construct a new exact reflection coefficient. Subsequently, a PP-reflectivity approximation is obtained in the weak-contrast half-space of the stiffness matrix. Numerical experiments with the symmetry axis perpendicular to the crack plane indicate that the PP reflectivity with an azimuth of 90° is only related to [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and density, whereas [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] contribute the most to the PP reflectivity with an azimuth of 0°. Therefore, the six-parameter simultaneous inversion can be decomposed into a three-parameter inversion within two azimuths to ensure the accuracy of the stiffness matrix inversion. Finally, to overcome the ill-posedness of the indirect calculation of the anisotropy parameters, a nonlinear inversion algorithm constrained by the relationship between the stiffness matrix and anisotropy parameters is developed. Applications of the model and field seismic data prove that our method performs better in stability and accuracy than conventional azimuthal amplitude difference methods.
Masked-SwinUnet-powered microresistivity borehole image inpainting
Authors: You Nan , Lin Tao , Li Weichang
Published: November 2024

Electrical borehole imaging tools acquire high-resolution microresistivity maps of the borehole wall, revealing critical sedimentary and structural features for reservoir characterization. However, these microresistivity borehole image logs (BHIs) often contain regularly spaced unmeasured intervals due to the intrinsic gaps between the measuring electrode pads, which hinders effective BHI interpretation. Traditional inpainting methods, such as multipoint statistics and morphological component analysis, require extensive iterative processing and often fail in complex formations. Therefore, we develop a deep neural network trained in a self-supervised manner to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of BHI inpainting. This network incorporates a masked image modeling algorithm into the Swin transformer model, focusing computation exclusively on valid pixels to eliminate inpainting artifacts and boost efficiency. The new model, called Masked-SwinUnet, leverages the known ground truth at artificially masked gaps in the measured stripes during training. It has successfully achieved seamless inpainting on data acquired by Schlumberger’s fullbore formation microimager from the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program, effectively restoring global sinusoidal features and local textures. This novel inpainting technique holds great potential for enhancing automatic BHI interpretation and reservoir characterization.
DNA Damage Response Alterations Predict for Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Sensitivity in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Correlative Analysis of the SWOG S1314 Trial
Authors: Iyer Gopa , Tangen Catherine M. , Sarfaty Michal , Regazzi Ashley M. , Lee I-Ling , Fong Megan , Choi Woonyoung , Dinney Colin P.N. , Flaig Thomas W. , Thompson Ian M. , Lerner Seth P. , McConkey David J. , Rosenberg Jonathan E.
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Alterations in DNA damage response (DDR) genes, including
ERCC2
, have been correlated with response to neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). The SWOG 1314 (S1314) trial enrolled patients with MIBC who received one of two NAC regimens followed by radical cystectomy. We examined the prevalence of DDR alterations in NAC responders versus nonresponders and correlated DDR alteration status with response.

METHODS

Pretreatment tumor specimens from 179 evaluable patients underwent next-generation sequencing (Memorial Sloan Kettering-Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets assay). Associations were determined between any or only deleterious alterations within nine predefined DDR genes, or any alterations in
ERCC2
, and progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival using Cox regression, and, in a subset of evaluable patients, pathologic response (complete response, pT0, or downstaging to <pT2) using logistic regression, adjusting for clinical stage and performance status.

RESULTS

Deleterious DDR alterations were detected in 41 (23%) of 179 patients. Of the 151 patients evaluable for pathologic response, patients with deleterious DDR alterations (n = 39) demonstrated a higher pathologic response rate than those without (odds ratio [OR], 3.24 [95% CI, 1.51 to 6.94];
P
= .003). In 24
ERCC2
-mutant patients, the OR for pT0 was 3.33 (95% CI, 1.35 to 8.22;
P
= .009) and for <pT2 was 2.33 (95% CI, 0.92 to 5.89;
P
= .073). The association between deleterious DDR alterations and PFS provided an estimate of hazard ratio, 0.54 (95% CI, 0.29 to 1.01;
P
= .053).

CONCLUSION

Deleterious DDR alterations were associated with pathologic response following NAC in S1314. Functional validation of
ERCC2
and other DDR alterations is underway to help refine such alterations as biomarkers of NAC in patients with bladder cancer.
Nonylphenol and Cetyl Alcohol Polyethoxylates Disrupt Thyroid Hormone Receptor Signaling to Disrupt Metabolic Health
Authors: Bérubé Roxanne , Murray Brooklynn , Kocarek Thomas A , Gurdziel Katherine , Kassotis Christopher D
Published: November 2024

Surfactants are molecules with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic structural groups that adsorb at the air-water or oil-water interface and serve to decrease the surface tension. Surfactants combine to form micelles that surround and break down or remove oils, making them ideal for detergents and cleaners. Two of the most important classes of nonionic surfactants are alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) and alcohol ethoxylates (AEOs). APEOs and AEOs are high production-volume chemicals that are used for many industrial and residential purposes, including laundry detergents, hard-surface cleaners, paints, and pesticide adjuvants. Commensurate with better appreciation of the toxicity of APEOs and the base alkylphenols, use of AEOs has increased, and both sets of compounds are now ubiquitous environmental contaminants. We recently demonstrated that diverse APEOs and AEOs induce triglyceride accumulation and/or preadipocyte proliferation in vitro. Both sets of contaminants have also been demonstrated as obesogenic and metabolism-disrupting in a developmental exposure zebrafish model. While these metabolic health effects are consistent across models and species, the mechanisms underlying these effects are less clear. This study sought to evaluate causal mechanisms through reporter gene assays, relative binding affinity assays, coexposure experiments, and use of both human cell and zebrafish models. We report that antagonism of thyroid hormone receptor signaling appears to mediate at least a portion of the polyethoxylate-induced metabolic health effects. These results suggest further evaluation is needed, given the ubiquitous environmental presence of these thyroid-disrupting contaminants and reproducible effects in human cell models and vertebrate animals.
Evolution and development of complex floral displays
Authors: Khojayori Farahnoz N. , Ponraj Udhaya , Buch Kristina , Zhao Yi , Herrera-Ubaldo Humberto , Glover Beverley J.
Published: November 2024

Flowering plants – angiosperms – display an astounding diversity of floral features, which have evolved in response to animal pollination and have resulted in the most species-rich plant clade. Combinations of macroscale (e.g. colour, symmetry, organ number) and microscale (e.g. cell type, tissue patterning) features often lead to highly elaborate floral displays. Most studies have focused on model species with simple floral displays to uncover the genetic and evolutionary mechanisms involved in flower evolution, yet few studies have focused on complex floral displays. Here, we review current knowledge on the development and evolution of complex floral displays. We review gene regulatory networks involved in four developmental pathways contributing to overall floral display (inflorescence architecture, organ identity, flower symmetry and flower colour) in classical plant models. We then discuss how evolutionary modification of one or more of these pathways has resulted in the production of a range of complex floral displays. Finally, we explore modular systems in which multiple pathways have been modified simultaneously, generating the most elaborate floral displays.
Ποιότητα ζωής και κόστος διαβίωσης ασθενών με καρκίνο παχέος εντέρου
Authors: Κουρής Ιωάννης
Published: November 2024

Εισαγωγή: Ο καρκίνος του παχέος εντέρου είναι μια κοινή μορφή καρκίνου. Βασικός στόχος κάθε θεραπευτικής προσέγγισης είναι η καλύτερη ποιότητα ζωής του ασθενούς σε συνδυασμό με την αποτελεσματικότητα της θεραπείας. Σκοπός: Η διερεύνηση της ποιότητας ζωής των ασθενών με καρκίνο του παχέος εντέρου στην Ελλάδα καθώς και η εκτίμηση της αλλαγής στο κόστος ζωής τους. Υλικό και μέθοδος: Πρόκειται για μια προοπτική περιγραφική μελέτη παρατήρησης, που πραγματοποιήθηκε την περίοδο Ιανουαρίου-2020- Ιανουαρίου 2022. Συνολικά, 192 συμμετέχοντες εντάχθηκαν στη μελέτη. Η συλλογή των δεδομένων πραγματοποιήθηκε με τη χρήση ερωτηματολογίου ερωτήσεων ανοιχτού και κλειστού τύπου (δημογραφικά, κοινωνικοοικονομικά και χαρακτηριστικά τρόπου ζωής, ερωτήσεις για την αξιολόγηση των αλλαγών στο οικονομικό κόστος ζωής των ασθενών και την ποιότητα ζωής τους). Η ανάλυση των δεδομένων πραγματοποιήθηκε με χρήση του SPSS ver. 21.0.Αποτελέσματα: Η μέση ηλικία των ασθενών ήταν τα 66,7 έτη, ενώ το 39,6% ήταν γυναίκες. Η πλειονότητα των ασθενών (73,4%) ήταν συνταξιούχοι και 14,6% ήταν απασχολούμενοι. Το μέσο κόστος ζωής των ασθενών λόγω της νόσου κατά το προηγούμενο εξάμηνο ήταν 3.714 €. Οι βαθμολογίες στις συνοπτικές κλίμακες ψυχικής και σωματικής υγείας ήταν σημαντικά χαμηλότερες από το 50, υποδεικνύοντας ότι η ποιότητα ζωής των ασθενών ήταν σημαντικά χειρότερη από το μέσο όρο τόσο στην ψυχική όσο και στη σωματική υγεία. Συμπέρασμα: Η γενικά μειωμένη ποιότητα ζωής των ασθενών με καρκίνο του παχέος εντέρου μπορεί να ερμηνευτεί σε σχέση με το αυξημένο άγχος των ασθενών, τον πόνο, καθώς και τη σημαντική οικονομική επιβάρυνση που αντιμετωπίζουν.
Colonialism and imperialism in Austrian history curricula and textbooks (1945–2023)
Authors: Brait Andrea
Published: November 2024

The article considers the depiction of colonialism and imperialism in Austrian textbooks (n = 61) and curricula issued since the commencement of the Second Republic in 1945. The analysis indicates that textbooks made use of the freedom afforded them by state stipulations, which, while evidently taking a distinctly eurocentric point of view, give textbook authors scope for taking decisions on the inclusion or exclusion of particular topics. The textbooks studied covered various aspects of this area of history that curricula did not list expressly, such as the impact of European colonial aggression on Indigenous populations. Simultaneously, the analysis showed a long absence from textbooks of colonialism’s implications throughout history to the present day, and demonstrated that textbooks reproduced racist ideas well into the 2000s, with corresponding effects on perceptions of history among Austrian population today.
Water quality evaluation by WQI and ICOs for the rivers of Joya de los Sachas and Francisco de Orellana
Authors: Burbano Salas Diego Vacili , Ajila Freddy , Poma Copa Maria Paulina , Lowy Daniel A.
Published: November 2024

A monitoring program enabled the evaluation of water quality and the simulation of the pollution dynamics of the rivers in the Joya de los Sachas and Francisco de Orellana cantons in Ecuador. For this assessment one used the WQI (water quality index) and the pollution indices ICOMO (organics contamination), ICOSUS (suspended solids), ICOMI (mineralization), ICOTRO (trophy system), and ICOpH (pH Index). The mathematical model operates with several input parameters, including dissolved oxygen, fecal coliforms, the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), turbidity, total solids, total phosphorus, pH, total nitrogen, suspended solids, alkalinity, conductivity, temperature, and the concentrations of nitrates, nitrites, and phosphates. WQI values were obtained from ICO pollution indices. The pollution of the Sacha area is significant, WQI = 0.292, which represents an advanced degree of pollution, since increased BOD values correspond to a high load of organic pollutants. They can originate from household, agricultural, industrial, and soil erosion waste. Likewise, the Sacha River has an ICOSUS = 0.16, which renders water treatment difficult, without impacting human health. Calculated WQI values reveal that the water quality of the Sacha, Basura and Coca rivers is low, being highly contaminated. In contrast, the Huamayacu, Jivino Rojo, Jivino Negro, and Jivino Blanco rivers are commonly polluted.
Sexual experiences and behaviours in the offspring generation of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Childhood
Authors: Iles-Caven Yasmin , Golding Jean
Published: November 2024

Previous research on child/teenage sexual experiences has largely focussed on negative outcomes such as teen pregnancy or acquiring sexually transmitted infections and are mainly cross-sectional. Longitudinal research is required to assess normal sexual development and the attainment of psychologically healthy attitudes towards sexuality. The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) has administered questions on relationships and sexual experiences from the age of 11 years to the index children. This data note describes these data.
The genome sequence of the white-throated dipper, Cinclus cinclus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Sharp Stuart P. ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from a juvenile male Cinclus cinclus (the white-throated dipper; Chordata; Aves; Passeriformes; Cinclidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 1,170.80 megabases. Most of the assembly (93.88%) is scaffolded into 39 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 18.67 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of a soliderfly, Stratiomys singularior (Harris, 1776)
Authors: Sivell Olga , Sivell Duncan , Mitchell Ryan ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female solidierfly, Stratiomys singularior (Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Stratiomyidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 715.20 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 6 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.67 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 11,614 protein-coding genes.
The genome sequence of an ichneumonid wasp, Pimpla contemplator (Muller, 1776)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Broad Gavin R. , McCulloch James , De Ketelaere Augustijn ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male ichneumonid wasp, Pimpla contemplator (Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Ichneumonidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 270.30 megabases. Most of the assembly (92.24%) is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 27.79 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Figwort Sawfly Tenthredo scrophulariae Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Falk Steven , Crowley Liam M. , Green Andrew ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Tenthredo scrophulariae (Figwort Sawfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hymenoptera; Tenthredinidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 233.10 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.96%) is scaffolded into 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 26.26 kilobases in length.
Excursion business in the context of sustainable tourism development
Authors: Hutsal Liudmyla
Published: November 2024

The article examines the role of excursion activities in the development of sustainable tourism as an important area of the modern tourism industry. Sustainable tourism, which is guided by the principles of environmental responsibility, social inclusion and economic sustainability, is aimed at preserving natural and cultural resources and ensuring the long-term development of local communities. Excursion business, as one of the main components of tourism services, has a significant potential for implementing sustainable tourism ideas due to the possibility of direct influence on the minds of tourists, promotion of cultural heritage and support for the local economy.
In addition, sightseeing is a powerful tool for introducing tourists to the cultural heritage of the region. Excursions focusing on cultural, historical and ethnographic aspects contribute to the preservation of local traditions and increase the attractiveness of the territories for tourists. The positive impact of excursions on the region's economy is also considered: excursion activities stimulate demand for local products, crafts and services, which in turn contributes to the development of small businesses, the creation of new jobs and the strengthening of economic resilience of communities.
            The article highlights the main challenges facing the excursion business in the context of sustainable tourism. In particular, the article discusses the need to improve the professional level of guides in the field of sustainable development, adaptation of excursion programmes to the requirements of environmental standards and active involvement of local communities in tourism activities. The importance of cooperation between government, business and local organisations to ensure the sustainable development of tourist regions.
Thus, the excursion business, focused on the principles of sustainable development, has a significant potential for preserving natural and cultural heritage, ensuring economic growth and improving the quality of life of the local population.
Rastros de fuego: memorias de un sobreviviente
Authors: Gómez Acosta Andrés
Published: November 2024

Esta obra presenta una mirada valiente y digna de un ser humano expuesto a los retos que impone la enfermedad. Nos da la oportunidad de acompañar una transformación a fuego lento. Se muestra una visión íntima y, en ocasiones, descarnada, para pensar sobre el papel que cumplen en nuestras vidas la familia, la autonomía, los retos, el futuro, el propósito, etc. En el contexto latinoamericano, son pocas las narrativas que abordan cómo la enfermedad, el dolor y la incertidumbre alteran para siempre la vida de una persona. Este relato ofrece una experiencia que cuestiona al lector, al dejar en la mesa, cómo la vulnerabilidad es inherente a la vida misma y de lo que somos capaces cuando el desafío se presenta. Al igual que una perturbación en el agua genera ondas en múltiples direcciones, los lectores encontrarán filiación y rechazo, respuestas e interrogantes.
Dynamic Contract Design in the Presence of Double Moral Hazard
Authors: Tian Feng , Astashkina Ekaterina , Duenyas Izak
Published: November 2024

We consider a stylized incentive management problem over an infinite time horizon, where the principal hires an agent to provide services to customers. Customers request service in one of two ways: either via an online or a traditional offline channel. The principal does not observe the offline customers’ arrivals, nor does she observe whether the agent exerts (costly) effort that can increase the arrival rate of customers. This creates an opportunity for the agent (i) to divert cash (that is, to under-report the number of offline customers and pocket respective revenues) and also (ii) to shirk (that is, not to exert effort), thus leading to a novel and thus far unexplored double moral hazard problem. To address this problem, we formulate a constrained, continuous-time, stochastic optimal control problem and derive an optimal contract with a simple intuitive structure that includes a payment scheme and a potential termination time of the agent. We enrich the model to allow the principal to either (i) dynamically adjust the prices for the services in both channels or (ii) monitor the agent. Both tools help the principal to alleviate the double moral hazard problem. We derive respective optimal strategies for using those tools that guarantee the highest profits. We show that the worse the agent’s past performance is, the lower the prices should be set and the more the principal should monitor the agent.

This paper was accepted by Ilia Tsetlin, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Funding: The work of F. Tian is financially supported by the Hong Kong RGC Funding [RGC General Research Fund 2023/24 17502023], HKU Seed Fund for Basic Research for New Staff (2022), and the HKU Business School Shenzhen Research Institute [SZRI2023-BRF-04].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01169 .
O USO DO CHAT GPT PARA O ENSINO E APRENDIZAGEM DE LÍNGUA INGLESA: UMA PESQUISA NARRATIVA SOBRE FORMAÇÃO DOCENTE
Authors: Tomaz Fernandes Luyza , Virgínia Soares Souza Valeska , Parolini Borges Durante Ana Carolina
Published: November 2024

Este artigo apresenta uma investigação da experiência de uma professora de inglês em formação com o ChatGPT. Trata-se de uma pesquisa deflagrada pela insegurança vivenciada com o surgimento das inteligências artificiais e a suposta substituição da profissão docente. Seu objetivo inicial foi explorar como o ChatGPT pode contribuir para, ou ainda limitar, o processo de ensino e aprendizagem de língua inglesa. Seguindo o caminho teórico-metodológico da pesquisa narrativa, a pesquisadora iniciante redigiu textos de campo a partir de suas interações com o ChatGPT partindo de demandas de sua experiência docente. Em suas narrativas, ela conta como resolveu dúvidas e aprendeu a planejar aulas com o ChatGPT. Narra, também, como melhorou seus comandos, acompanhou a utilização da ferramenta por outros docentes e propiciou um contexto para que seus próprios alunos utilizassem o ChatGPT. Os fios narrativos discutidos se relacionam com as polarizações de o ChatGPT ser um amigo ou um inimigo no contexto educacional; à autoria que pode limitada no contato com a IA e à forma como as tecnologias digitais propiciam (ou não) a democratização do processo educacional. O texto de pesquisa aponta para a importância de trazer o ChatGPT para o contexto educacional com uma perspectiva crítica de como a ferramenta pode ser um auxílio, mas também um limitador do protagonismo docente.