bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Products That Contain Higher Homologated Amino Acids
Authors: Owens Skyler L. , Ahmed Shopno R. , Lang Harman Rebecca M. , Stewart Laura E. , Mori Shogo
Published: March 2024

This review focuses on discussing natural products (NPs) that contain higher homologated amino acids (homoAAs) in the structure as well as the proposed and characterized biosynthesis of these non‐proteinogenic amino acids. Homologation of amino acids includes the insertion of a methylene group into its side chain. It is not a very common modification found in NP biosynthesis as approximately 450 homoAA‐containing NPs have been isolated from four bacterial phyla (Cyanobacteria, Actinomycetota, Myxococcota, and Pseudomonadota), two fungal phyla (Ascomycota and Basidiomycota), and one animal phylum (Porifera), except for a few examples. Amino acids that are found to be homologated and incorporated in the NP structures include the following ten amino acids: alanine, arginine, cysteine, isoleucine, glutamic acid, leucine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, and tyrosine, where isoleucine, leucine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine share the comparable enzymatic pathway. Other amino acids have their individual homologation pathway (arginine, proline, and glutamic acid for bacteria), likely utilize the primary metabolic pathway (alanine and glutamic acid for fungi), or have not been reported (cysteine and serine). Despite its possible high potential in the drug discovery field, the biosynthesis of homologated amino acids has a large room to explore for future combinatorial biosynthesis and metabolic engineering purpose.
Evidence of handedness in turtles
Authors: Honan Caroline , Hopkins John B. , Chatfield Matthew W. H.
Published: March 2024

Although research supporting cerebral lateralization, or handedness, in non‐human vertebrates is expanding, reptiles represent one of the least studied. While assessing wood turtle shells, we noticed more dents, scrapes, chips, and other forms of damage on the right side of turtles than on the left. Asymmetrical injury has been attributed to cerebral lateralization in other taxa, and current research supports handedness in testudines. After creating a “scute damage index” to catalog damage location, we confirmed turtles had more damage on the right side of their shells than on the left. We offer four hypotheses that explain this pattern.
A randomized controlled trial of sweet basil leaf powder‐enriched cookies for anemia management in adolescent girls
Authors: Akbar Farah Naz , Mahmood Shahid , Mueen‐ud‐din Ghulam , Khalid Waseem , Khalid Muhammad Zubair , Aziz Zaira , Alfarraj Saleh , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Madilo Felix Kwashie
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of sweet basil leaf powder as a natural source of iron for the treatment of anemia in adolescent girls. Purposive sampling technique of two‐stage sampling; part of the nonprobability sampling approach. Out of 2400 approached adolescent girls, 1645 agreed to participate and their nutritional status was assessed. Of these, 89.95% had clinical signs and symptoms of anemia, and 59.79% were found to be anemic based on Hb levels. From the anemic group, 65.18% were randomly selected to receive either B0 (Control), B1 (12.699 g FeSO4.7H2O/100 g), and B3 (16 g SBLP/100 g) cookies for 4 months. At the end of the intervention, the assessment of nutritional status, complete blood count, serum iron, serum ferritin, serum total iron‐binding capacity (TIBC), and transferrin saturation was explored. Hematological parameters such as Hb, Hct, TIBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, serum iron, and serum ferritin were significant (p ≤ .05). The result showed that the serum Fe was highest in group B3 while a significant decline was noted for group B0. Serum ferritin for B1 was better than B3. The entire treatment for transferrin saturation showed a highly significant increasing trend in B3 and B1, regardless of the control. TIBC levels raised in the control group while in all other treatments, it declined. The study demonstrated that SBLP‐fortified cookies can be an effective treatment option for anemia, as evidenced by significant improvements in key hematological parameters.
Wearing sensor data integration for promoting the performance skills of music in IoT
Authors: Li Xiaochan , Shi Yi , Pan Daohua
Published: March 2024

This study integrates multi‐node wearable sensor data to improve music performance skills. A window‐adding method is used during time‐frequency feature extraction. By incorporating kernel functions, we present a generalized discriminant analysis (GDA) method to reduce the high‐dimensional sensor features while retaining performance traits. Experiments demonstrate that the proposed GDA approach achieves higher accuracy (92.71%), precision (90.54%), and recall (88.68%) compared to linear discriminant analysis (82.39% accuracy) and principal component analysis (88.56% accuracy) in classifying motions performed by music performers. The integrated analysis of wearable sensor data facilitates comprehensive feedback to strengthen proficiency across various music performance skills.
Identifying factors that influence the selection of a postgraduate year 2 ambulatory care residency program
Authors: Statczar Alexandra K. , Schumacher Christine A. , Borchert Jill S. , Quiñones‐Boex Ana C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Studies have been conducted to evaluate motivating factors for pharmacy students in pursuing a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residency program. Currently, no literature assesses the factors driving the selection of a specific PGY2 ambulatory care (AC) pharmacy program.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to identify factors driving the selection of a specific PGY2 AC pharmacy residency program. Secondary objectives were to describe whether these driving factors have changed throughout the residency year, the impact of remote work in the selection of a PGY2 AC program, and the impact of resident well‐being in the selection of a PGY2 AC program.

Methods

A questionnaire was electronically distributed to 199 American Society of Health‐System Pharmacists residency program directors (RPDs) of PGY2 AC programs in March 2023. The RPDs were asked to forward the questionnaire and reminder emails to their current PGY2 AC residents. The questionnaire included a combination of categorical, Likert‐type, open‐ended, and demographic questions. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the results.

Results

In total, 72 PGY2 AC residents responded, providing a response rate of 27%. The mean age was 26 (±1.30) years, 69% identified as female, and 57% practiced in an urban setting. The top three factors that influenced the selection prior to the ASHP Match were culture of the program, perceived positive resident morale, and mentorship provided by RPD and preceptors. These factors remained the most influential after being in residency for approximately 8–9 months. The ability to work from home or remotely, complete a teaching certificate program, and conduct telehealth visits were the least influential factors.

Conclusion

An understanding of the factors that were most influential in the selection of a PGY2 AC program provides a unique resource to RPDs, allowing them to better position their program for future candidates.
Simulation study on functional group‐modified Ni‐MOF‐74 for CH4/N2 adsorption separation
Authors: Zhang Yueyang , Hu Gaofeng , Gao Xueting , Zhang Zhuxia , Cui Peng
Published: March 2024

This study employs grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulations to investigate the impact of functional group modifications (CH3, OH, NH2, and OLi) on the adsorption performance of CH4/N2 on Ni‐MOF‐74. The results revealed that functional group modifications significantly increased the adsorption capacity of Ni‐MOF‐74 for both CH4 and N2. The packed methyl groups in CH3‐Ni‐MOF‐74 create an environment conducive to CH4, leading to the highest CH4 adsorption capacity. The electrostatic potential distribution indicates that the strong electron‐donating effect introduced by the alkali metal Li results in the highest electrostatic potential gradient in Li‐O‐Ni‐MOF‐74, leading to the strongest adsorption of N2, this is unfavorable for CH4/N2 separation. At 1500 kPa the selectivity order of adsorbents for mixed gases was as follows: CH3‐Ni‐MOF‐74 > NH2‐Ni‐MOF‐74 > OH‐Ni‐MOF‐74 > Ni‐MOF‐74 > Li‐O‐Ni‐MOF‐74. This study highlights that CH3‐Ni‐MOF‐74 possesses optimal CH4 selectivity and adsorption performance. Given the current lack of research on functionalized MOF‐74 for the separation of CH4 and N2, the findings of this study will serve as a theoretical guide and provide references for the applications of CH4 adsorption and CH4/N2 separation.
Prognostic value of noninvasive programmed stimulation in primary prevention implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator recipients
Authors: Futyma Piotr , Santangeli Pasquale , Zarębski Łukasz , Wrzos Aleksandra , Sander Jarosław , Futyma Marian , Marchlinski Francis E. , Kułakowski Piotr
Published: March 2024

Background

Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) offers an opportunity to study inducibility of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) by performing noninvasive programmed ventricular stimulation (NIPS). Whether NIPS can predict future arrhythmic events or mortality in patients with primary prevention ICD, has not yet been examined.

Methods

From the NIPS‐ICD study (ClinicalTrials ID: NCT02373306) 41 consecutive patients (34 males, age 64 ± 11 years, 76% ischemic cardiomyopathy [ICM]) had ICD for primary prevention indication. Patients underwent NIPS using a standardized protocol of up to three premature extrastimuli at 600, 500 and 400 ms drive cycle lengths. NIPS was classified as positive if sustained VT or VF was induced. The study endpoint was occurrence of sustained VT/VF during the follow‐up.

Results

At baseline NIPS, VT/VF was induced in 8 (20%) ICM patients. During the 5‐year follow‐up, the VT/VF occurred in 7 (17%) patients, all with ICM. The difference between NIPS‐inducible versus NIPS‐noninducible patients regarding VT/VF occurrence did not meet statistical significance (38% vs. 12%, log rank test p = .11). After a 5‐year follow‐up, the mortality rate was significantly higher in patients who had VT/VF induced at NIPS versus no VT/VF at NIPS (38% vs. 12%, p = .043). The occurrence of a composite endpoint consisting of VT/VF recurrence or death in patients with ICM was also most frequent in the NIPS‐inducible group (75% vs. 35%, p = .037).

Conclusions

Inducibility of VT/VF during NIPS in ICM patients with primary prevention ICD is associated with higher mortality and higher incidence of composite endpoint consisting of death or VT/VF during a long‐term observation.
Aerial display that reconstructs face orientation by use of spatial blending of two face images
Authors: Kishinami Kohei , Sato Keigo , Yasugi Masaki , Suyama Shiro , Yamamoto Hirotsugu
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a novel aerial display system that reconstructs face orientation. The proposed system forms two face images floating in mid‐air. Viewers observe a spatially blended image of the two face images, where the spatial blending ratio depends on the viewing position. Thus, the spatially blended aerial face image is perceived to look in a fixed orientation even if the viewing position is changed within a certain viewing range. We analyze the spatial blending system optical design and show results from our prototype display.
Stochastic analysis of two‐strain epidemic model with non‐monotone incidence rates: Application to COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Sadki Marya , Yaagoub Zakaria , Allali Karam
Published: March 2024

This work is devoted to the mathematical analysis of a COVID‐19 two‐strain epidemic model. The COVID‐19 mathematical model described the infection forces of each strain by a nonmonotonic incidence function. First, we establish the well‐posedness of the COVID‐19 stochastic model in terms of existence and uniqueness of the global positive solution. After that, we investigate the results of the stochastic extinction and persistence in mean of the COVID‐19 disease. The findings show that both strains of COVID‐19 pandemic extinct, when the basic reproduction number is less than unity. If the latter is not achieved, then the infection related to the strain with higher stochastic basic reproduction number will persist. Additionally, both strains can persist at the same time, if their related stochastic basic reproduction numbers are both greater than one. Finally, various numerical simulations are carried out in order to validate the theoretical findings concerning the extinction and persistence in mean of the disease. As an application of our work, we have chosen to compare our deterministic and stochastic results with COVID‐19 clinical data.
Sex differences in mechanical stress and associated labor in Hellenistic–early Roman Menainon, Sicily
Authors: Caruso Antonio , Nikita Efthymia
Published: March 2024

This paper explores mechanical stress in the Hellenistic/early Roman community of Menainon (Sicily) to test the existence of sex‐based division of labor. For this purpose, human skeletal remains from 79 males and 65 females, dating to the 4th–1st ca. BCE, were examined for degenerative joint disease, intervertebral disc disease, cross‐sectional geometric properties, and entheseal changes. Our findings support an equal share of workload between males and females, who appeared to have experienced similar mechanical stress levels. In contrast, they do not support a systematically greater mechanical load among males, as would have been expected if females had been restricted indoors taking care of domestic tasks only, while men had dealt with most physically demanding outdoor activities. The patterns identified in the current study agree with a scenario where agriculture was a prominent subsistence activity (as attested historically for this region) and most members of this rural community engaged in agricultural tasks irrespective of sex. Our study has limitations regarding the available historical and archaeological information, which restrict our ability to formulate solid research hypotheses or fully contextualize the bioarchaeological results. Nonetheless, it does highlight the importance of critically assessing historical information regarding the role of men and women in the Greco‐Roman society.
“UHPLC‐Q‐TOF/MS‐chemometrics‐network pharmacology” integrated strategy to discover quality markers of raw and stir‐fried Fructus Tribuli and process optimization of stir‐fried Fructus Tribuli
Authors: Wang Shuai , Du De‐feng , Li Fei , Chen Ming‐yue , Sheng Hua‐gang , Zhang Chao , Guo Fei , Chen Zhi , Cao Guang‐shang
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Fructus Tribuli, the dried ripe fruit of Tribulus terrestris L., has various beneficial effects, including liver‐calming and depression‐relieving effects. Raw Fructus Tribuli (RFT) and stir‐fried Fructus Tribuli (SFT) are included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition (Ch. P 2020). However, owing to the lack of specific regulations on SFT‐processing parameters in Ch. P 2020, it is difficult to ensure the quality of commercially available SFT.

Objective

The present study aimed to screen the quality markers (Q‐markers) of RFT and SFT and optimize the processing technology of SFT based on the identified Q‐markers.

Methods

First, the ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF/MS) technology as well as multiple statistical analysis along with network pharmacology was used to comprehensively identify the Q‐markers of RFT and SFT. Then, based on single‐factor experiments, the Box–Behnken design (BBD) response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the processing technology of SFT and perform process validation.

Results

A total of 63 components were identified in RFT and SFT extracts. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were initially considered the Q‐markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The optimum processing technology conditions were 208°C, 14 min, and 60 r·min−1. Three batches of process validation were performed, and the mean composite score was 56.87, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) value of 1.13%.

Conclusion

The content of steroidal saponin components in RFT was significantly different before and after stir‐frying. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were validated as the Q‐markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The identification of Q‐markers for RFT and SFT offered a clear index for optimizing the SFT‐processing technology and provided a basis for the quality control of RFT and SFT decoction pieces.
Deterioration study of sea‐dumped munitions in the eastern Scheldt
Authors: den Otter J. H. , Olde M. C. , van de Steeg W. , Volker A. W. F. , van der Heijden A. E. D. M.
Published: March 2024

Vast amounts of surplus ammunition were dumped in surface waters around the world. After degradation and corrosion of shells, both metal compounds and the energetic contents of the ammunition end up in the environment. These compounds or their metabolites are toxic to the environment and human health. Also in the Netherlands, ammunition was dumped over a period of several decades after World War II at several marine sites. One of these dumpsites is the Eastern Scheldt near Zierikzee. During the monitoring campaign of the ammunition dumpsite in the Eastern Scheldt in 2020, ammunition items were surfaced. The corrosion and presence of leak pathways of sea‐dumped munition were studied for a selection of munition items after being more than 50 years on the seabed in the Eastern Scheldt. For some of the items an estimated uniform corrosion rate of 0.01–0.03 mm/year was determined. Furthermore, a non‐destructive inspection technique based on an ultrasonic method was applied to measure the casing thickness profile. The obtained results corresponded well with the manually determined thickness profiles. The ultrasound method opens the possibility to measure the casing thickness of even intact munition items, thus avoiding the dissection of the munition item and removal of the explosive fill.
Space–Charge‐Limited Photocurrent as a Possible Cause for Low Power Conversion Efficiency in GaInN/GaN‐Based Optoelectronic Semiconductors
Authors: Kim Jiwon , Park Changeun , Shin Dong‐Soo , Shim Jong‐In , Zheng Dong‐Guang , Han Dong‐Pyo
Published: March 2024

This study attempts to understand the cause of low power conversion efficiency (PCE) in III‐nitride optoelectronic semiconductors under optical operation. For this purpose, a GaInN/GaN heterojunction semiconductor is fabricated, and the photoexcited current–voltage (PEJV) curves are carefully measured depending on the optical excitation power and temperature. The results show unexpected excitation power‐ and temperature‐dependent behaviors, that is, the PCE decreases with increasing excitation power and increases with increasing temperature. To understand this, the space–charge‐limited photocurrent (JPh,SCL) theory (also referred to as Goodman and Rose theory) is employed, where the accumulated charge carriers in the active layer play a significant role. The conduction of JPh,SCL is ascertained by analyzing the PEJV curves. The conduction of JPh,SCL is investigated as a possible cause of the low PCE, revealing that the conduction of JPh,SCL could limit the high‐power operation of the device.
Quantification of aluminium and silicon‐containing materials using Ag Lα X‐rays
Authors: Leadley Stuart R.
Published: March 2024

In recent years, instrument manufacturers have been providing laboratory‐based HAXPES (hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy) instruments that have monochromated silver Lα, chromium Kα and gallium Kα X‐ray sources. To be more than a qualitative tool, two things are required: calibration of the signal intensity as a function of kinetic energy (spectrometer response function) and relative sensitivity factors. This is now possible because of routines being available to generate the spectrometer response functions for dual Al Kα/Ag Lα X‐ray sources and the availability of Cant average matrix relative sensitivity factors (AMRSFs). However, to improve accuracy when using the Cant AMRSF care needs to be taken in the definition of the peak areas being used. This is because they need to include the total intrinsic signal that often extends beyond the main peak. This is a particular challenge when quantifying using the Al 1s peak generated with Ag Lα X‐rays as some of the intrinsic signal overlaps with the Al KLL Auger peak. When materials include both aluminium and silicon atoms, the Si 2s and 2p peaks sit upon extended signals coming from the Al 2s and 2s peaks, respectively. Thus, quantification should be limited to using the main peak area, which necessitates different relative sensitivity factors (RSFs). Using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and sapphire (Al2O3) as model systems, experimental RSFs have been determined for use with the main peaks for O 1s, Al 1s, Al2s Al 2p, Si 1s, Si 2s and Si 2p subshells normalized to the RSF of the carbon 1s main peak.
Categorisation of continuous covariates for stratified randomisation: How should we adjust?
Authors: Sullivan Thomas R. , Morris Tim P. , Kahan Brennan C. , Cuthbert Alana R. , Yelland Lisa N.
Published: March 2024

To obtain valid inference following stratified randomisation, treatment effects should be estimated with adjustment for stratification variables. Stratification sometimes requires categorisation of a continuous prognostic variable (eg, age), which raises the question: should adjustment be based on randomisation categories or underlying continuous values? In practice, adjustment for randomisation categories is more common. We reviewed trials published in general medical journals and found none of the 32 trials that stratified randomisation based on a continuous variable adjusted for continuous values in the primary analysis. Using data simulation, this article evaluates the performance of different adjustment strategies for continuous and binary outcomes where the covariate‐outcome relationship (via the link function) was either linear or non‐linear. Given the utility of covariate adjustment for addressing missing data, we also considered settings with complete or missing outcome data. Analysis methods included linear or logistic regression with no adjustment for the stratification variable, adjustment for randomisation categories, or adjustment for continuous values assuming a linear covariate‐outcome relationship or allowing for non‐linearity using fractional polynomials or restricted cubic splines. Unadjusted analysis performed poorly throughout. Adjustment approaches that misspecified the underlying covariate‐outcome relationship were less powerful and, alarmingly, biased in settings where the stratification variable predicted missing outcome data. Adjustment for randomisation categories tends to involve the highest degree of misspecification, and so should be avoided in practice. To guard against misspecification, we recommend use of flexible approaches such as fractional polynomials and restricted cubic splines when adjusting for continuous stratification variables in randomised trials.
Deciphering the Local Environment of Electrocatalytic Metal Sites with X‐ray Absorption Fine Structure
Authors: Zhang Nan , Wang Jianqiang
Published: March 2024

Electrocatalysis plays a pivotal role in energy conversion and holds significant promise for the development of new energy sources. Understanding the intricate atomic‐level interplay between active sites and electrocatalytic activity is essential for comprehending catalytic behavior and advancing high‐performance catalysts. In this review, an overview of the recent advances in X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) is provided for deciphering the local environment of electrocatalytic metal sites. The application of XAFS in disclosing the electronic interaction and coordination environment of metal sites is summarized, offering insights into the correlation between ligand arrangement and catalytic activity. Special attention is given to advanced XAFS techniques for exploring active species, including determining the actual active sites, monitoring the local structure transformation, and deciphering metal sites–catalysis relationship. The limitations of traditional XAFS have naturally prompted the development of high‐spatiotemporal‐resolution and high‐energy‐resolution techniques as well as in‐situ/operando methods to better understand the entire catalytic process. This review is anticipated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the capabilities of XAFS in exploring the fine structure of electrocatalysts, with implications for the design of advanced catalytic materials.
Pueraria lobata Resistant Starch Regulating Lipid Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in High‐Fat Diet Mice
Authors: Lai Meiying , Li Na , Li Quancen , Ge Xiaodong , Huang Zifeng , Chen Fujie , Liu Bin , Zeng Feng
Published: March 2024

Pueraria lobata resistant starch (PLRS) is prepared by modifying Pueraria lobata starch with pullulanase, and the PLRS modulate lipid metabolism disorders and gut microbiota structure are hypothesized in high‐fat diet (HFD) mice. The results reveal that the PLRS can alleviate lipid metabolism disorders by significantly upregulating the abundance of Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, Blautia, and Dubosiella, but markedly downregulating Staphylococcus in HFD mice. The PLRS may decrease the gain of weight, biochemical index, ameliorate hepatic impairment, and histopathological. Molecular mechanisms have elucidated that the PLRS may exert reducing fat accumulation and stabilize the gut microbiota effects through the modulation of the fatty acid metabolic signaling pathway and the PPAR signaling pathway. Therefore, these results suggest that this prebiotic carbohydrate may regulate lipid metabolism and gut microbiota in HFD mice and can be used to prepare healthy lipid‐lowering functional foods to attenuate obesity problems.
Effect of raw coal gangue coarse aggregates on mechanical properties and compressive stress–strain response of concrete
Authors: Kou Xuting , Shen Linghua , Zhao Hui , Wang Rui , Wang Jiyang
Published: March 2024

Raw coal gangue (RCG) as one of the solid wastes can result in serious ecological and environmental pollution. Utilization of RCG as coarse aggregates in concrete can mitigate the demand for natural aggregates in engineering construction to a certain extent. This study aims to assess the impact of utilizing raw coal gangue aggregates (RCGAs) on the mechanical behaviors and compressive stress–strain responses of concrete. For this purpose, a total of 90 concrete specimens were prepared, varying in RCGA replacement ratios of 0, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100% and water‐to‐cement (w/c) ratios of 0.37 and 0.47. The slump, compressive and splitting tensile strengths in cubes, and complete compressive stress–strain curves of RCGA concrete were obtained and discussed. Results indicated that as RCGA was incorporated, the peak stress and elastic modulus of concretes with 0.37 and 0.47 w/c ratios decreased by 26%–51% and 23%–57%, respectively. In addition, the crack development and microstructural characteristics of RCGA concrete were analyzed by digital image correlation and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The SEM analysis indicated that the interface transition zone between RCGAs and mortar was relatively thick and loose compared to that between coarse natural aggregates and mortar, indicating the poor mechanical properties of RCGA concrete. Finally, based on the test data, a normalized stress–strain model for RCGA concrete was proposed, taking into account the influence of RCGA replacement.
Genome assembly and multi‐omic analyses reveal the mechanisms underlying flower color formation in Torenia fournieri
Authors: Song Jiaxing , Kong Haiming , Yang Jing , Jing Jiaxian , Li Siyu , Ma Nan , Yang Rongchen , Cao Yuman , Wang Yafang , Hu Tianming , Yang Peizhi
Published: March 2024

Torenia fournieri Lind. is an ornamental plant that is popular for its numerous flowers and variety of colors. However, its genomic evolutionary history and the genetic and metabolic bases of flower color formation remain poorly understood. Here, we report the first T. fournieri reference genome, which was resolved to the chromosome scale and was 164.4 Mb in size. Phylogenetic analyses clarified relationships with other plant species, and a comparative genomic analysis indicated that the shared ancestor of T. fournieri and Antirrhinum majus underwent a whole genome duplication event. Joint transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses identified many metabolites related to pelargonidin, peonidin, and naringenin production in rose (TfR)‐colored flowers. Samples with blue (TfB) and deep blue (TfD) colors contained numerous derivatives of petunidin, cyanidin, quercetin, and malvidin; differences in the abundances of these metabolites and expression levels of the associated genes were hypothesized to be responsible for variety‐specific differences in flower color. Furthermore, the genes encoding flavonoid 3‐hydroxylase, anthocyanin synthase, and anthocyanin reductase were differentially expressed between flowers of different colors. Overall, we successfully identified key genes and metabolites involved in T. fournieri flower color formation. The data provided by the chromosome‐scale genome assembly establish a basis for understanding the differentiation of this species and will facilitate future genetic studies and genomic‐assisted breeding.
Policy for material efficiency in homes and cars: Enabling new climate change mitigation strategies
Authors: Lifset Reid , Hertwich Edgar , Makov Tamar
Published: March 2024

Material efficiency (ME), making products with less material or substituting with less carbon‐intensive material without a loss of functionality, can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and complement other strategies to mitigate climate change. Seven ME strategies for cars and homes in the G7 countries were recently modeled in a study by the International Resource Panel. Modeling indicates that ME strategies focusing on construction and use of homes could lower the overall cumulative emissions in the G7 between 2016 and 2060 by 8.5 Gt CO2e (20%), while ME strategies for the production and use of cars could reduce up to 12 Gt (24%). For both homes and cars, the strategy of more intensive use—where fewer or smaller products are required to provide the same basic service—showed the greatest potential. A review of existing ME policies reveals that attention to ME in climate policy has been limited. Policy toward ME has historically focused on waste management rather than GHG reduction. Ex post evaluation of policies that do exist, especially for recycling and related waste strategies, is infrequent. Framing efficient use of materials as a measure primarily intended for climate mitigation is relatively recent and uncommon. Production‐related policy opportunities have been neglected because using ME to reduce GHGs is novel in some sectors and because increased ME faces economic and social barriers. Rebound effects where reduction of the cost of housing or transportation can increase material consumption offsetting potential gains, a problem for all efficiency‐based approaches, is understudied and not currently addressed through policy.

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Policies, Instruments, Lifestyles, Behavior

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Decarbonizing Energy and/or Reducing Demand
Poly(A) tale: From A to A; RNA polyadenylation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes
Authors: Mofayezi Ahmadreza , Jadaliha Mahdieh , Zangeneh Fatemeh‐zahra , Khoddami Vahid
Published: March 2024

Most eukaryotic mRNAs and different non‐coding RNAs undergo a form of 3′ end processing known as polyadenylation. Polyadenylation machinery is present in almost all organisms except few species. In bacteria, the machinery has evolved from PNPase, which adds heteropolymeric tails, to a poly(A)‐specific polymerase. Differently, a complex machinery for accurate polyadenylation and several non‐canonical poly(A) polymerases are developed in eukaryotes. The role of poly(A) tail has also evolved from serving as a degradative signal to a stabilizing modification that also regulates translation. In this review, we discuss poly(A) tail emergence in prokaryotes and its development into a stable, yet dynamic feature at the 3′ end of mRNAs in eukaryotes. We also describe how appearance of novel poly(A) polymerases gives cells flexibility to shape poly(A) tail. We explain how poly(A) tail dynamics help regulate cognate RNA metabolism in a context‐dependent manner, such as during oocyte maturation. Finally, we describe specific mRNAs in metazoans that bear stem‐loops instead of poly(A) tails. We conclude with how recent discoveries about poly(A) tail can be applied to mRNA technology.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution

RNA Processing > 3′ End Processing

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability
Effect of Vaginal Microecological Alterations on Female Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Chen Shaozhan , Zheng Qiaomei , Zhang Limin , Chen Lihong , Wang Jinhua
Published: March 2024

Introduction and Hypothesis

The objective was to investigate the correlation between endogenous vaginal microecological alterations and female pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

Methods

Patients who underwent vaginal hysterectomy were retrospectively analyzed as the POP group (n = 30) and the non-POP group (n = 30). The vaginal microbial metabolites and enzyme levels were tested using the dry chemoenzymatic method. The mRNA and protein expression were tested using real-time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. SPSS version 25.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0 were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

Compared with the non-POP group, the vaginal pH, H2O2 positivity and leukocyte esterase positivity were higher in patients with POP (all p < 0.05). Further analysis showed that patients with pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) stage IV had higher rates of vaginal pH, H2O2 positivity and leukocyte esterase positivity than those with POP-Q stage III. Additionally, the mRNA expression of decorin (DCN), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) in uterosacral ligament tissues were higher, whereas collagen I and III were lower. Similarly, the positive expression of MMP-3 in uterosacral ligament tissue was significantly upregulated in the POP group compared with the non-POP group (p = 0.035), whereas collagen I (p = 0.004) and collagen III (p = 0.019) in uterosacral ligament tissue were significantly downregulated in the POP group. Correlation analysis revealed that there was a significant correlation between vaginal microecology and collagen metabolism. In addition, MMP-3 correlated negatively with collagen I and collagen III (p = 0.002, r = −0.533; p = 0.002, r = −0.534 respectively), whereas collagen I correlated positively with collagen III (p = 0.001, r = 0.578).

Conclusions

Vaginal microecological dysbiosis affects the occurrence of female POP, which could be considered a novel therapeutic option.
Effects of the perceived temporal distance of events on mental time travel and on its underlying brain circuits
Authors: Casadio Claudia , Patané Ivan , Candini Michela , Lui Fausta , Frassinetti Francesca , Benuzzi Francesca
Published: March 2024

Mental Time Travel (MTT) allows us to remember past events and imagine future ones. According to previous literature, the Temporal Distance of events affects MTT: our ability to order events worsens for close, compared to far, events. However, those studies established distances a-priori, albeit the way we perceive events’ temporal distance may subjectively differ from their objective distance. Thus, in the current study, we aimed to investigate the effects of Perceived Temporal Distance (PTD) on the MTT ability and the brain areas mediating this process. Thirty-three healthy volunteers took part in an fMRI MTT task. Participants were asked to project themselves into the past, present, or future, and to judge a series of events as relative-past or relative-future, in relation to the adopted time location. Outside the scanner, participants provided PTD estimates for each stimulus of the MTT task. Participants’ performance and functional activity were analyzed as a function of these estimations. At the behavioural level, PTD predicts the modulation of the performance for relative-past and relative-future. Bilateral angular gyrus, retrosplenial cortex, temporo-parietal region and medial, middle and superior frontal gyri mediate the PTD effect. In addition to these areas, the closer the relative-future events are perceived, the higher the involvement of left parahippocampal and lingual gyri and right cerebellum. Thus, perceived proximity of events activates frontal and posterior parietal areas, which therefore might mediate the processing of PTD in the cognitive spatial representation of time. Future proximity also activates cerebellum and medial temporal areas, known to be involved in imaginative and constructive cognitive functions.
Aspirin Responsiveness in a Cohort of Pediatric Patients with Right Ventricle to Pulmonary Artery Conduits and Transcatheter Valve Replacement Systems
Authors: Kelleher Sean T. , Regan Irene E. , Cox Dermot , Shaw Kathryn , Franklin Orla , Kenny Damien P. , Walsh Kevin P. , McMahon Colin J.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of aspirin responsiveness in a cohort of pediatric patients with in situ xenograft valved right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduits and/or transcatheter valve replacements (TVR). Aspirin is routinely prescribed to these patients. Optimizing anti-platelet therapy could promote valve longevity and reduce the risk of infective endocarditis in this at-risk group. This was a prospective, observational study. Patients were recruited from both ward and outpatient settings. Patients were eligible if under 18 years and taking aspirin. Non-response to aspirin was defined as > 20% platelet aggregation using light transmission platelet aggregometry (LTA) and < 50% platelet inhibition by thromboelastography with platelet mapping (TEGPM). Participants were invited to provide a confirmatory sample in cases of aspirin resistance and dose adjustments were made. Thirty patients participated. Median age was 9 years (2 months to 18 years). The majority (93%) had complex right ventricular outflow tract pathology. 13 (43%) had an RV-PA conduit and 24 (80%) had a TVR, with valve situated in conduit in 7 (23%) cases. Rate of aspirin non-response on initial testing was 23% (n = 7/30) with median LTA 74.55% (60–76%) and TEG 13.25% (0–44%) in non-responders. Non-responders were more likely to be under 1 year. Two patients required dose increases and one patient non-adherence to dose was identified. Four patients on repeat testing were responsive to aspirin by laboratory tests. The rate of aspirin non-response on laboratory testing in this cohort of patients was 23% and resulted in therapeutic intervention in 10%.
Pretreatment with a dual antiplatelet and anticoagulant (APAC) reduces ischemia–reperfusion injury in a mouse model of temporary middle cerebral artery occlusion—implications for neurovascular procedures
Authors: Denorme Frederik , Frösen Juhana , Jouppila Annukka , Lindgren Antti , Resendiz-Nieves Julio C. , Manninen Hannu , De Meyer Simon F. , Lassila Riitta
Published: March 2024

Background

Several neurovascular procedures require temporary occlusion of cerebral arteries, leading to ischemia of unpredictable length, occasionally causing brain infarction. Experimental models of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury have established that platelet adhesion and coagulation play detrimental roles in reperfusion injury following transient cerebral ischemia. Therefore, in a model of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI), we investigated the therapeutic potential of a dual antiplatelet and anticoagulant (APAC) heparin proteoglycan mimetic which is able to bind to vascular injury sites.

Methods

Brain ischemia was induced in mice by transient occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery for 60 min. APAC, unfractionated heparin (UFH) (both at heparin equivalent doses of 0.5 mg/kg), or vehicle was intravenously administered 10 min before or 60 min after the start of ischemia. At 24 h later, mice were scored for their neurological and motor behavior, and brain damage was quantified.

Results

Both APAC and UFH administered before the onset of ischemia reduced brain injury. APAC and UFH pretreated mice had better neurological and motor functions (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and had significantly reduced cerebral infarct sizes (p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively) at 24 h after transient occlusion compared with vehicle-treated mice. Importantly, no macroscopic bleeding complications were observed in either APAC- or UFH-treated animals. However, when APAC or UFH was administered 60 min after the start of ischemia, the therapeutic effect was lost, but without hemorrhaging either.

Conclusions

Pretreatment with APAC or UFH was safe and effective in reducing brain injury in a model of cerebral ischemia induced by transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Further studies on the use of APAC to limit ischemic injury during temporary occlusion in neurovascular procedures are indicated.
Lateral medullary vascular compression manifesting as paroxysmal hypertension
Authors: Giammattei L. , Wuerzner G. , Theiler K. , Vollenweider P. , Dunet V. , Al Barajraji M. , Squair J. W. , Bloch J. , Daniel R. T.
Published: March 2024

Neurovascular compression of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) has been described as a possible cause of refractory essential hypertension. We present the case of a patient affected by episodes of severe paroxysmal hypertension, some episodes associated with vago-glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Classical secondary forms of hypertension were excluded. Imaging revealed a neurovascular conflict between the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) and the ventrolateral medulla at the level of the root entry zone of the ninth and tenth cranial nerves (CN IX-X REZ). A MVD of a conflict between the PICA and the RVLM and adjacent CN IX-X REZ was performed, resulting in reduction of the frequency and severity of the episodes. Brain MRI should be performed in cases of paroxysmal hypertension. MVD can be considered in selected patients.
Hedging with physical or cash settlement under transient multiplicative price impact
Authors: Becherer Dirk , Bilarev Todor
Published: March 2024

We solve the superhedging problem for European options in an illiquid extension of the Black–Scholes model, in which transactions have transient price impact and the costs and strategies for hedging are affected by physical or cash settlement requirements at maturity. Our analysis is based on a convenient choice of reduced effective coordinates of magnitudes at liquidation for geometric dynamic programming. The price impact is transient over time and multiplicative, ensuring nonnegativity of underlying asset prices while maintaining an arbitrage-free model. The basic (log-)linear example is a Black–Scholes model with a relative price impact proportional to the volume of shares traded, where the transience for impact on log-prices is modelled like in Obizhaeva and Wang (J. Financ. Mark. 16:1–32, 2013) for nominal prices. More generally, we allow nonlinear price impact and resilience functions. The viscosity solutions describing the minimal superhedging price are governed by the transient character of the price impact and by the physical or cash settlement specifications. The pricing equations under illiquidity extend no-arbitrage pricing à la Black–Scholes for complete markets in a non-paradoxical way (cf. Çetin et al. (Finance Stoch. 14:317–341, 2010)) even without additional frictions, and can recover it in base cases.
Harms from Other People’s Gambling: Associations with an Individual’s Own Gambling Behaviours, Health Risk Behaviours, Financial Problems, General Health, and Mental Wellbeing
Authors: Wilson Charley , Butler Nadia , Quigg Zara
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to explore relationships between being an ‘affected other’ (AO) and an individual’s own gambling, health risk behaviours, financial problems, poor general health, and low mental wellbeing. A cross-sectional survey using representative and supplementary convenience samples was undertaken with 1234 residents of a British Island aged 16 + years. Being an AO was measured as having a partner or relative who has been gambling regularly in the past 12 months. PGSI was used to assess gambling severity. Health risk behaviours included: poor diet, low physical activity, daily smoking, and binge drinking. Other measures included experiencing financial problems, poor general health, and low mental wellbeing. Analyses were performed using χ2 and binary logistic regressions. 11.0% of participants were AOs. AOs were more likely to gamble at at-risk/problem-gambling levels and experience financial problems compared to those who were not affected others. The significant relationship between being an AO and low mental wellbeing was mediated by experiencing financial problems. The relationship between being an AO and engaging in two or more health risk behaviours was no longer significant after controlling for sociodemographics and an individual’s own gambling. The relationship between being an AO and poor general health was no longer significant after controlling for sociodemographics, health risk behaviours and an individual’s own gambling. AOs experienced risks to health and wellbeing, with findings not limited to AOs specifically with a relationship to an individual with problem-gambling. Therefore, support for AOs should be more widely available, aiming to address AOs’ needs holistically.
A systematic review of the inequality of health burdens related to climate change
Authors: Song Xinke , Zhang Shihui , Huang Hai , Ding Qun , Guo Fang , Zhang Yaxin , Li Jin , Li Mingyu , Cai Wenjia , Wang Can
Published: March 2024

Climate change significantly impacts human health, exacerbating existing health inequalities and creating new ones. This study addresses the lack of systematic review in this area by analyzing 2440 publications, focusing on four key terms: health, disparities, environmental factors, and climate change. Strict inclusion criteria limited the selection to English-language, peer-reviewed articles related to climate health hazards, ensuring the relevance and rigor of the synthesized studies. This process synthesized 65 relevant studies. Our investigation revealed that recent research, predominantly from developed countries, has broadened its scope beyond temperature-related impacts to encompass diverse climate hazards, including droughts, extreme weather, floods, mental health issues, and the intersecting effects of Coronavirus Disease 2019. Research has highlighted exposure as the most studied element in the causal chain of climate change-related health inequalities, followed by adaptive capability and inherent sensitivity. The most significant vulnerabilities were observed among populations with low socioeconomic status, ethnic minorities, and women. The study further reveals research biases and methodological limitations, such as the paucity of attention to underdeveloped regions, a narrow focus on non-temperature-related hazards, challenges in attributing climate change effects, and a deficit of large-scale empirical studies. The findings call for more innovative research approaches and a holistic integration of physical, socio-political, and economic dimensions to enrich climate-health discourse and inform equitable policy-making.