bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BHBA attenuates endoplasmic reticulum stress‐dependent neuroinflammation via the gut–brain axis in a mouse model of heat stress
Authors: Sui Yuzhen , Feng Xiao , Ma Yue , Zou Yimeng , Liu Yanli , Huang Jian , Zhu Xiaoyan , Wang Jianguo
Published: July 2024

Background

Heat stress (HS) commonly occurs as a severe pathological response when the body's sensible temperature exceeds its thermoregulatory capacity, leading to the development of chronic brain inflammation, known as neuroinflammation. Emerging evidence suggests that HS leads to the disruption of the gut microbiota, whereas abnormalities in the gut microbiota have been demonstrated to affect neuroinflammation. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of HS on neuroinflammation are poorly studied. Meanwhile, effective interventions have been unclear. β‐Hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) has been found to have neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory properties in previous studies. This study aims to explore the modulatory effects of BHBA on neuroinflammation induced by HS and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

An in vivo and in vitro model of HS was constructed under the precondition of BHBA pretreatment. The modulatory effects of BHBA on HS‐induced neuroinflammation were explored and the underlying molecular mechanisms were elucidated by flow cytometry, WB, qPCR, immunofluorescence staining, DCFH‐DA fluorescent probe assay, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing of colonic contents.

Results

Heat stress was found to cause gut microbiota disruption in HS mouse models, and TM7 and [Previotella] spp. may be the best potential biomarkers for assessing the occurrence of HS. Fecal microbiota transplantation associated with BHBA effectively reversed the disruption of gut microbiota in HS mice. Moreover, BHBA may inhibit microglia hyperactivation, suppress neuroinflammation (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6), and reduce the expression of cortical endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) markers (GRP78 and CHOP) mainly through its modulatory effects on the gut microbiota (TM7, Lactobacillus spp., Ruminalococcus spp., and Prevotella spp.). In vitro experiments revealed that BHBA (1 mM) raised the expression of the ERS marker GRP78, enhanced cellular activity, and increased the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐10), while also inhibiting HS‐induced apoptosis, ROS production, and excessive release of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐1β) in mouse BV2 cells.

Conclusion

β‐Hydroxybutyric acid may be an effective agent for preventing neuroinflammation in HS mice, possibly due to its ability to inhibit ERS and subsequent microglia neuroinflammation via the gut–brain axis. These findings lay the groundwork for future research and development of BHBA as a preventive drug for HS and provide fresh insights into techniques for treating neurological illnesses by modifying the gut microbiota.
GV‐971 attenuates the progression of neuromyelitis optica in murine models and reverses alterations in gut microbiota and associated peripheral abnormalities
Authors: Yang Xinying , Zhangyi Zhongheng , Yu Aisong , Zhou Qinming , Xia Aihua , Qiu Ji , Cai Meixiang , Chu Xingkun , Li Liang , Feng Zhengnan , Luo Zhiyu , Sun Guangqiang , Zhang Jing , Geng Meiyu , Chen Sheng , Xie Zuoquan
Published: July 2024

Aims

Growing evidence suggests that an imbalanced gut microbiota composition plays a crucial role in the development of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), an inflammatory demyelinating disease primarily affecting the optic nerves and central nervous system (CNS). In light of this, we explored the potential therapeutic benefits of GV‐971 in NMOSD. GV‐971 is a drug used for treating mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease, which targets the gut‐brain axis and reduces neuroinflammation.

Methods

To evaluate GV‐971's effects, we employed the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mouse model to establish NMOSD animal models. This was achieved by injecting NMO‐IgG into aged mice (11 months old) or using NMO‐IgG along with complement injection and microbubble‐enhanced low‐frequency ultrasound (MELFUS) techniques in young mice (7 weeks old). We assessed the impact of GV‐971 on incidence rate, clinical scores, body weight, and survival, with methylprednisolone serving as a positive control. In NMOSD models of young mice, we analyzed spinal cord samples through H&E staining, immunohistochemistry, and Luxol Fast Blue staining. Fecal samples collected at different time points underwent 16S rRNA gene sequencing, while plasma samples were analyzed using cytokine array and untargeted metabolomics analysis.

Results

Our findings indicated that GV‐971 significantly reduced the incidence of NMOSD, alleviated symptoms, and prolonged survival in NMOSD mouse models. The NMOSD model exhibited substantial neuroinflammation and injury, accompanied by imbalances in gut microbiota, peripheral inflammation, and metabolic disorders, suggesting a potentially vicious cycle that accelerates disease pathogenesis. Notably, GV‐971 effectively reduces neuroinflammation and injury, and restores gut microbiota composition, as well as ameliorates peripheral inflammation and metabolic disorders.

Conclusions

GV‐971 attenuates the progression of NMOSD in murine models and reduces neuroinflammation and injury, likely through its effects on remodeling gut microbiota and peripheral inflammation and metabolic disorders.
Machine learning‐based prediction of clinical outcomes after traumatic brain injury: Hidden information of early physiological time series
Authors: Ding Ruifeng , Deng Mengqiu , Wei Huawei , Zhang Yixuan , Wei Liangtian , Jiang Guowei , Zhu Hongwei , Huang Xingshuai , Fu Hailong , Zhao Shuang , Yuan Hongbin
Published: July 2024

Aims

To assess the predictive value of early‐stage physiological time‐series (PTS) data and non‐interrogative electronic health record (EHR) signals, collected within 24 h of ICU admission, for traumatic brain injury (TBI) patient outcomes.

Methods

Using data from TBI patients in the multi‐center eICU database, we focused on in‐hospital mortality, neurological status based on the Glasgow Coma Score (mGCS) motor subscore at discharge, and prolonged ICU stay (PLOS). Three machine learning (ML) models were developed, utilizing EHR features, PTS signals collected 24 h after ICU admission, and their combination. External validation was performed using the MIMIC III dataset, and interpretability was enhanced using the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) algorithm.

Results

The analysis included 1085 TBI patients. Compared to individual models and existing scoring systems, the combination of EHR and PTS features demonstrated comparable or even superior performance in predicting in‐hospital mortality (AUROC = 0.878), neurological outcomes (AUROC = 0.877), and PLOS (AUROC = 0.835). The model's performance was validated in the MIMIC III dataset, and SHAP algorithms identified six key intervention points for EHR features related to prognostic outcomes. Moreover, the EHR results (All AUROC >0.8) were translated into online tools for clinical use.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the importance of early‐stage PTS signals in predicting TBI patient outcomes. The integration of interpretable algorithms and simplified prediction tools can support treatment decision‐making, contributing to the development of accurate prediction models and timely clinical intervention.
Symptom Distress Before and After Heart Transplantation – A Longitudinal 5‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Dalvindt Marita , Veungen Hannah Lindahl , Kisch Annika , Nozohoor Shahab , Lennerling Annette , Forsberg Anna
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Symptom distress after heart transplantation (HTx) is a significant problem causing uncertainty, low self‐efficacy, and psychological distress. Few studies have addressed self‐reported symptoms. The aim was to explore self‐reported symptom distress from time on the waiting list to 5 years after HTx and its association with self‐reported psychological well‐being, chronic pain, and fatigue in order to identify possible predictors of psychological or transplant specific well‐being.

Methods

This multicenter, longitudinal cohort study includes 48 heart recipients (HTRs), 12 women, and 36 men, with a median age of 57 years followed from pretransplant to 5 years post‐transplant. Symptom distress was explored by means of four instruments measuring psychological general wellbeing, transplant specific wellbeing, pain, and fatigue.

Results

Transplant specific well‐being for the whole improved in a stepwise manner during the first 5 years compared to pretransplant. Heart transplant recipients with poor psychological wellbeing were significantly more burdened by symptom distress, in particular sleep problems and fatigue, for up to 5 years after HTx, and their transplant‐specific well‐being never improved compared to baseline. The prevalence of pain varied from 40% to 60% and explained a significant proportion of the variance in transplant‐specific well‐being, while psychological general well‐being was mainly predicted by overall symptom distress.

Conclusion

The presence of distressing symptoms explains a significant proportion of poor psychological wellbeing both among HTRs reporting chronic pain and those without pain.
1105. Anacamptis pyramidalis (L.) Rich.
Authors: Fay Michael F. , Raistrick Reinhild , Bazzicalupo Miriam , Calevo Jacopo
Published: July 2024

Anacamptis pyramidalis (pyramidal orchid) is illustrated here. It is a widespread, mostly temperate European species (absent from northern Scotland and much of Scandinavia), extending into south‐western Asia and North Africa. A detailed description is provided, with notes on cytology, habitat and cultivation. It is collected in the eastern Mediterranean for salep production, but, given its wide distribution, this harvest is unlikely to have an impact on its global conservation status.
Effects of non‐rapid eye movement sleep on the cortical synaptic expression of GluA1‐containing AMPA receptors
Authors: Squarcio Fabio , Tononi Giulio , Cirelli Chiara
Published: July 2024

Converging electrophysiological, molecular and ultrastructural evidence supports the hypothesis that sleep promotes a net decrease in excitatory synaptic strength, counteracting the net synaptic potentiation caused by ongoing learning during waking. However, several outstanding questions about sleep‐dependent synaptic weakening remain. Here, we address some of these questions by using two established molecular markers of synaptic strength, the levels of the AMPA (alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole propionic acid) receptors containing the GluA1 subunit and the phosphorylation of GluA1 at serine 845 (p‐GluA1(845)). We previously found that, in the rat cortex and hippocampus, these markers are lower after 6–8 h of sleep than after the same time spent awake. Here, we measure GluA1 and p‐GluA1(845) levels in synaptosomes of mouse cortex after 5 h of either sleep, sleep deprivation, recovery sleep after sleep deprivation or selective REM sleep deprivation (32 C57BL/B6 adult mice, 16 females). We find that relative to after sleep deprivation, these synaptic markers are lower after sleep independent of whether the mice were allowed to enter REM sleep. Moreover, 5 h of recovery sleep following acute sleep deprivation is enough to renormalize their expression. Thus, the renormalization of GluA1 and p‐GluA1(845) expression crucially relies on NREM sleep and can occur in a few hours of sleep after acute sleep deprivation.
Genetic diversity and connectivity of the invasive gastropod, Callinina georgiana (Caenogastropoda: Viviparidae) across a fragmented riverscape: A mitonuclear perspective
Authors: Abeyrathna Wijesooriya Arachchilage Nimanthi Upeksha , Davinack Andrew A.
Published: July 2024

Aquatic invasive species are a significant threat to global freshwater biodiversity. This study focuses on the banded mystery snail, Callinina georgiana, an invasive species in the Adirondack region of northern New York—an important section of the New York Great Lakes Basin. This project aims to explore the genetic connectivity of C. georgiana within its invasive range using a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear markers.

Sampling was conducted in the Raquette River and adjacent waterways, with a total of 229 snails collected from 16 distinct populations distributed across eight different waterbodies. Also included were two populations from the species' native range in the southern U.S.A. DNA was extracted, and a 710‐bp fragment of the mitochondrial DNA marker cytochrome c oxidase 1 and a 351‐bp fragment of nuclear marker histone‐3 were amplified. Population genetic analyses including haplotype patterning, AMOVA and genetic diversity estimates, neutrality tests and tests for isolation by distance were performed to assess connectivity patterns.

Results showed moderate to high levels of genetic admixture within the snail's invasive range as indicated by the lack of geographic patterning of haplotypes and low to moderate levels of genetic differentiation across multiple sites. Demographic analyses combined with high numbers of private haplotypes indicate historic population expansion. Interestingly, a case of mitonuclear discordance was detected for native and invasive populations as evident by incongruent haplotype patterns for the cytochrome c oxidase 1 and histone‐3 markers.

Callinina georgiana exhibits a high level of genetic connectivity in its invasive range. The presence of dams does not significantly affect apparent gene flow, indicating that anthropogenic activities, such as boat traffic might be key in dispersing the snails across this fragmented freshwater system.

This study offers new insights into the dispersal and genetic structure of an invasive freshwater snail. It highlights the importance of considering anthropogenic factors when confronting complex patterns of genetic diversity. The findings are significant for biodiversity conservation and provide a basis for developing strategies to manage and contain the spread of aquatic invasive species such as C. georgiana, especially in regions with high human activity.
Zooplankton community heterogeneity and trophic interactions in response to environmental drivers in a mesotidal estuary on the Brazilian equatorial margin—Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
Authors: Santos Taiza Pimentel , Cutrim Marco Valério Jansen , da Cruz Quedyane Silva , Cavalcanti‐Lima Lisana Furtado , dos Santos Sá Ana Karoline Duarte , de Azevedo‐Cutrim Andrea Christina Gomes
Published: July 2024

This study emphasises the importance of environmental filters in the dynamics of the zooplankton community and the ecological relationships with phytoplankton in three zones of a tropical mesotidal estuary.

Thus, sampling was carried out in six different locations strategically positioned along the Preguiças River estuary, with the following objectives: to characterise the abundance of zooplankton and, through this, determine changes in the community's α‐ and β‐diversity indices depending on variables environmental; to define environmental filters that affect the indicator species of ecosystem zones; and to identify the interaction between phytoplankton and zooplankton along the estuarine gradient.

The zooplankton community contained 80 species, including 14 phyla, with Arthropoda being the most diverse, followed by Ciliophora and Mollusca. The class Copepoda stood out, with Paracalanus crassirostris, Pseudodiaptomus gracilis, and Oithona nana dominating the community. In total, 21 species were selected as indicators, including Temora turbinata in the coastal zone, Rhizodomus tagatzi in the mixing zone, and Moina micrura in the tidal river zone. The environmental heterogeneity showed significant spatial differences, with variations governed mainly by salinity, temperature, and suspended organic matter, which acted as the principal environmental filters. The coastal zone and mixing zone species demonstrated direct ecological relationships with the blooms of the diatoms Skeletonema costatum and Asterionellopsis glacialis, in which the abundance of zooplankton was favoured by their occurrence, denoting top‐down control of the trophic network. For the partitioning of β diversity, the turnover component was responsible for the diversity value due to environmental heterogeneity, which distinguished communities across zones.

Our findings represent the first comprehensive investigation into the relationship between environmental heterogeneity and zooplankton within this tropical ecosystem, subject to mesotides. These discoveries are pivotal in identifying environments highly susceptible to degradation (low β diversity) and those acting as dispersal centres (high β diversity), thereby facilitating targeted conservation efforts and more efficient management of estuarine systems. Therefore, our results provide a crucial basis for the sustainable management of similar coastal ecosystems in different parts of the world.
Chemical stability and leaching mechanism of YIG and HEG at different pH conditions
Authors: Zhang Shengtai , Teng Zhen , Wu Linzhen , Tan Yongqiang , Chen Chen , Zhou Xiaosong
Published: July 2024

Designing waste forms using the cocktail effect of high‐entropy ceramics can improve the efficiency of ceramic waste forms. In this work, traditional garnet (Y1.2Nd1.8Fe5O12, YIG) and high‐entropy (HE) garnet (Y0.6Gd0.6Sm0.6Eu0.6Dy0.6Fe5O12, HEG) are synthesized through ignition and plasma sintering to form dense ceramic waste forms. The chemical stability of YIG and HEG was studied by using static leaching tests at pH = 3, 5, 7, 9, 11. The results indicate that acidic environments can increase the leaching rate of ceramics. Leaching behavior leads to a decrease in lattice volume, but the elements remain uniformly distributed. The leaching mechanism indicates that YIG and HEG are controlled by dissolution and surface effect in the early stage (1–7 days) of leaching. The leaching mechanism in the later stage (14–42 days) is characterized by diffusion control. The diffusion coefficient of long‐term leaching indicates that HEG is more suitable as the immobilization substrate for high‐level radioactive waste (HLW) than YIG.
Exploring novel double perovskite SrEuTiFeO6: Synthesis, microstructural, optical, and dielectric properties
Authors: Boudad L. , Taibi M. , El Boukili A. , Belayachi A. , Abd‐lefdil M.
Published: July 2024

The novel double perovskite oxide SrEuTiFeO6 was synthesized using the solid‐state reaction method. X‐ray diffraction analysis, complemented by Rietveld refinement, confirmed that this material crystallizes in a cubic double perovskite structure with the Pm3̅m space group and revealed cationic disorder at both the A (Sr, Eu) and B (Ti, Fe) sites. Crystallite size and lattice strain were determined through various methods. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to examine vibrational modes and bond distortions within this material. Scanning electron microscopy showed a heterogeneous microstructure, with a wide distribution of grain sizes and shapes, resulting from the kinetics of the solid‐state synthesis. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy confirmed the material's homogeneity, stoichiometry, and chemical composition. UV–visible spectroscopy was used to investigate the optical properties of SrEuTiFeO6, identifying several characteristic optical transitions. The band gap energy and refractive index were found to be 2.08 eV and 2.60, respectively, indicating the material's potential for various applications. Additionally, the dielectric properties, including the relative dielectric constant and loss tangent, were thoroughly analyzed as functions of frequency and temperature. The electrical conductivity dispersion phenomenon was also analyzed according to Jonscher's power law, revealing the predominance of overlapping the large polaron tunneling mechanism.
Testing molecular date estimates using an ecological and vicariant case study in treefrogs: The Geological‐Ecological Molecular Calibration
Authors: Jowers Michael J. , Pajares Jesús Muñoz , Weber John , Arkle Jeanette , Arenas‐Castro Salvador , Ho Simon Y. W. , Rivas Gilson A. , Murphy John C. , Borzée Amaël , Pyron R. Alexander , Perez‐Losada Marcos , De Freitas Mayke , Downie J. Roger , Moreno‐Rueda Gregorio , Forcina Giovanni , Sánchez‐Ramírez Santiago
Published: July 2024

Aim

To date a vicariant event through the mutualistic relationship of a hylid frog and its bromeliad host found across two isolated mountain ranges as part of an island–continental split and to use this information to calibrate a molecular dating analysis of hylids.

Location

South America.

Time Period

Pliocene.

Major Taxa Studied

Treefrogs, Arboranae.

Methods

Pliocene tectonic movements sank a portion of a mountain range that connected present‐day Trinidad (island) and northern Venezuela, eventually isolating populations of the golden tree frog Phytotriades auratus and its host bromeliad Glomeropitcairnia erectiflora on both sides of a saltwater barrier. We estimated the submersion rate timing of the vicariant event, then employed ecological niche modelling to establish the distribution of the frog and its host to the Pliocene. We generated nucleotide sequence data for the hylid on each side of the marine barrier and proposed a biogeographic calibration for the split between populations. Using Bayesian phylogenetic analysis, we evaluated the impact of incorporating this biogeographic calibration on estimates of treefrog divergence times.

Results

A relatively continuous, high‐elevation mountain range existed before the Pliocene and the opening of the Gulf of Paria (4.45 ± 0.85 Ma). Phytotriades auratus and G. erectiflora would have been distributed across the Paria and Northern Range mountains as a single population since the Pliocene. Divergence times among treefrogs (Arboranae) were older than those inferred using fossil calibrations alone, with mean age estimates for subfamilies and genera being ~2 and ~1.2 million years older, respectively.

Main Conclusions

Our study presents a biogeographic calibration based on a vicariant model that connects the evolution of the populations of a hylid through geology and ecological data. The implementation of this date as a molecular clock calibration reduces the uncertainty in date estimates for the shallower nodes in the phylogeny of Arboranae.
Deciphering the role of cuproptosis‐related lncRNAs in shaping the lung cancer immune microenvironment: A comprehensive prognostic model
Authors: Huang Hai , Chen Guoxi , Zhang Zongqi , Wu Gang , Zhang Zhengbin , Yu Aiping , Wang Jianjie , Quan Chao , Li Yuehua , Zhou Meilan
Published: July 2024

Cuproptosis plays an important role in cancer, but its role in lung cancer remains unknown. Transcriptional profiles, clinical details and mutation data were acquired from the Cancer Genome Atlas database through a variety of methods. The analysis of this publicly available data was comprehensively performed using R software along with its relevant packages, ensuring a thorough examination of the information. In this study, we conducted a detailed analysis of cuproptosis‐related genes and lncRNA co‐expression, identifying 129 relevant lncRNAs and establishing a prognostic model with four key lncRNAs (LINC00996, RPARP‐AS1, SND1‐IT1, TMPO‐AS1). Utilizing data from TCGA and GEO databases, the model effectively categorized patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups, showing significant survival differences. Correlation analysis highlighted specific relationships between individual lncRNAs and cuproptosis genes. Our survival analysis indicated a higher survival rate in the low‐risk group across various cohorts. Additionally, the model's predictive accuracy was confirmed through independent prognostic analysis and ROC curve evaluations. Functional enrichment analysis revealed distinct biological pathways and immune functions between risk groups. Tumour mutation load analysis differentiated high‐ and low‐risk groups by their mutation profiles. Drug sensitivity analysis and immune infiltration studies using the CIBERSORT algorithm further elucidated the potential treatment responses in different risk groups. This comprehensive evaluation underscores the significance of lncRNAs in cuproptosis and their potential as biomarkers for lung cancer prognosis and immune microenvironment.
Simulation and analysis of movement trajectories of fresh tea leaf particles based on CFD‐EDEM coupling
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhu Xinyu , Yu Kai , Wan Jiaxin , Chen Chuanyang
Published: July 2024

To study the air‐suction separation mechanism of fresh tea leaves, this article adopts the coupling simulation method of discrete elements and computational fluid dynamics to conduct numerical simulation and experimental research on the movement of fresh tea leaves adsorbed by negative pressure air flow. In the gas–solid coupling model, three‐dimensional scanning technology is applied to establish a three‐dimensional model of fresh tea leaves with one bud and two leaves. Through the Fluent module in CFD, the negative pressure adsorption gas phase of the simulation process was established, bench tests were established, and parameters of the coupling model were optimized. Finally, the minimum error between the simulated value and the test value was 2.85% and the maximum error was 7.43%, indicating that the coupling model established had certain accuracy and could be theoretically analyzed according to the coupling model established. It is found that when the static pressure values of the adsorption surface are −120 Pa, −340 Pa, and −500 Pa respectively, the initial distance from the adsorption surface is 250–550 mm. It is found that fresh tea leaves with one bud and two leaves all fall to the pipe before adsorption, and then move to the adsorption surface. Under the same static pressure value of the adsorption surface, the initial falling distance of tea particles from the adsorption surface (250–550 mm) has a linear function relationship with the distance between the turning point and the adsorption surface. When the initial distance between falling tea particles and the adsorption surface is the same, the distance between the turning point and the adsorption surface is an exponential function when the initial position is 250–350 mm from the adsorption surface, and the distance between the turning point and the adsorption surface is a linear function when the initial position is 400–550 mm from the adsorption surface.
Marginalized identities, healthcare discrimination, and parental stress about COVID‐19
Authors: Meier A. , Kamp Dush C. , VanBergen A. M. , Clark S. , Manning W.
Published: July 2024

Objective

This paper assesses stress disparities among marginalized parents in 2020–21 during the COVID‐19 pandemic through the mechanism of healthcare discrimination.

Background

The pandemic upended the lives of American families and had particularly stark mental health consequences for women, racial and ethnic minority (REM), and sexual and gender minority (SGM) parents. Scholars have been called to understand these unequal experiences via marginalizing mechanisms rather than using race, gender, and sexual identities as proxies for racism, sexism, and cis‐heterosexism.

Methods

Structural equation modeling was used to test associations between marginalized identities and parental stress about COVID among partnered parents using healthcare discrimination, a marginalizing mechanism, as a mediator. The data come from The National Couples' Health and Time Study, a population‐representative study of couples in the United States.

Results

Findings indicate that compared to nonmarginalized parents, Black parents, women, transgender and nonbinary parents, and gay, lesbian, and bisexual parents experienced higher levels of parental stress about COVID through heightened healthcare discrimination. When accounting for healthcare discrimination, only one marginalized identity–that of women–was directly associated with parental stress about COVID along with the indirect relationship through healthcare discrimination.

Conclusion

These findings highlight healthcare discrimination as a process that puts marginalized parents at risk for heightened stress. Parental stress has the potential to accumulate across the life course and crossover to children and communities.
Inoculum sources and management of bean scab caused by Elsinoë phaseoli
Authors: Masheti Yona , Muthomi James W. , Muiru William M. , Arunga Esther E. , Gepts Paul
Published: July 2024

Bean scab caused by Elsinoë phaseoli is a major challenge to common bean cultivation in Kenya. However, knowledge about its epidemiology and management is limited. This study conducted three experiments in Kakamega, Kenya, evaluating scab inoculum sources and control options. The first experiment evaluated three different inoculum sources over two seasons; bean crop residue caused the highest scab incidence in both the 2021 (62.1%) and 2022 (81.1%) seasons. The second experiment assessed the effect of rotation history on scab over three seasons. Scab incidence consistently surpassed 90% within the first 30 days after planting in half‐yearly rotated fields across all seasons, while the disease was absent after planting in fields with no recent history of legumes. Fields rotated out of legumes consistently had the highest grain yield, averaging 1.5 t ha−1 over the seasons. Additionally, the rotation land treatment displayed significantly more pods per plant during the 2021 (9.7), 2022a (9.8), and 2022b (12.5) seasons. In the third experiment, the impact of five fungicides and four cropping systems on bean scab was investigated over two seasons. Neither fungicide treatments nor cropping systems had an effect on bean scab incidence even when only severe symptoms were considered. Carbendazim had the highest yield (1.9 t ha−1) outperforming the unsprayed control only in the 2022 season while none of the other fungicides outperformed the control treatment in yield parameters in either season. This study emphasizes the challenge of managing bean scab without proper crop rotation and underscores the role of crop residue as a critical inoculum source.
Unraveling local and regional determinants of high plant diversity at marine rocky outcrops in Uruguay
Authors: Mai Patricia , Marchesi Eduardo , Pollero Antonella , Zabaleta María , Cappuccio Laura , Fernández Sebastián , Idjiloff Ninoska , Arim Matías
Published: July 2024

Questions

Marine rocky outcrops are model systems of community assembly under harsh conditions. The prevailing environmental conditions that determine a coast–inland gradient of stress and disturbance impose a strong environmental filter on community assembly. However, the Atlantic rocky outcrops of Uruguay challenge this assumption as they exhibit high plant diversity at small spatial scales. We investigated this study system to answer: (1) which environmental factors determine diversity at the local scale; (2) and how does the regional pool influence species composition along the coast–inland gradient?

Methods

We analyzed the local and regional determinants of plant community assembly in four rocky sites along the Uruguayan coast. Through a random sampling approach stratified by distance to the coast, we recorded species occurrences and microenvironmental conditions. Observed taxa were assigned into different species assemblages according to their typical vegetation type. Generalized Linear Model (GLM)–Poisson regression, quantile regressions and hierarchical cluster analyses were used to identify the factors underlying local richness and the spatial vegetation structure.

Results

Nine different vegetation types generate a mass effect that enhances local diversity. Unexpectedly, 56% of the species are from non‐marine environments — e.g. grasslands or hydrophilous herblands. Species assemblages were spatially clustered, with a turnover of these clusters along the coast–inland gradient. Elevation, distance to the coast and vegetation cover promoted richness, likely due to an attenuation of marine filters. Meanwhile, substrate availability reduced richness, likely due to competitive exclusion as a result of more resources and homogeneous microenvironmental conditions.

Conclusions

The high local diversity along the marine rocky outcrops of Uruguay is best explained by a functionally diverse regional species pool, which interacts with local heterogeneity, and by conditions that enhance or attenuate the effect of marine stress. Effective conservation and management strategies are key to minimize the detrimental effects of urbanization, fragmentation, and non‐native plant invasions on these diverse habitats.
Automatic generation of architecture drawings from point clouds
Authors: Zhang Fengyu , Kong Qingzhao , Yuan Cheng , Li Peizhen
Published: July 2024

Traditional methods for producing architectural drawings require extensive manual labor. This paper proposes an automated method for generating a comprehensive set of three‐view drawings, including the standardized labeling of doors and annotation of dimensions and areas. The output drawings are software‐readable and editable, and the method is applicable to intricate structures with non‐orthogonal or curved walls. To fully validate the accuracy of the proposed method, two distinct building scenarios were selected for experimentation.
A case study of a patient with platelet transfusion refractoriness (PTR) combined with human leucocyte antigen (HLA) antibody positivity during hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in conjunction with the ‘atezolizumab plus bevacizumab’ regimen
Authors: Xie Yawen , Huang Yanxia , Liu Shuyue
Published: July 2024

Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in conjunction with the combination therapy of atezolizumab (T) and bevacizumab (A) is widely used in hepatocellular carcinoma. Some adverse events such as hypertension, weakness and elevated transaminase levels occurred during treatment, while there is currently no reported case about thrombocytopenia with concomitant HLA antibody‐positive PTR. We summarize the critical care nursing experience of a patient with PTR because of HLA antibody positivity during hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in conjunction with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (T + A) regimen. This paper explains the nursing measures for patients with severe thrombocytopenia and proposes nursing measures for situations where conventional treatments are ineffective. Key nursing points include the administration of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and HLA‐compatible platelets, prevention of complications, psychological care, oral care, and skin management. Through systematic treatment and targeted nursing care, the patient's platelet count rebounded after 9 days, leading to a successful recovery and discharge. Subsequent follow‐up assessments revealed the patient's sustained well‐being. Thrombocytopenia is a potential adverse reaction during the treatment of liver cancer. When platelet transfusion is ineffective, vigilance is necessary for the possibility of HLA positivity, and prompt symptomatic management is warranted.
Complex Ginzburg–Landau equation for time‐varying anisotropic media
Authors: Van Gorder Robert A.
Published: July 2024

When extending the complex Ginzburg–Landau equation (CGLE) to more than one spatial dimension, there is an underlying question of whether one is capturing all the interesting physics inherent in these higher dimensions. Although spatial anisotropy is far less studied than its isotropic counterpart, anisotropy is fundamental in applications to superconductors, plasma physics, and geology, to name just a few examples. We first formulate the CGLE on anisotropic, time‐varying media, with this time variation permitting a degree of control of the anisotropy over time, focusing on how time‐varying anisotropy influences diffusion and dispersion within both bounded and unbounded space domains. From here, we construct a variety of exact dissipative nonlinear wave solutions, including analogs of wavetrains, solitons, breathers, and rogue waves, before outlining the construction of more general solutions via a dissipative, nonautonomous generalization of the variational method. We finally consider the problem of modulational instability within anisotropic, time‐varying media, obtaining generalizations to the Benjamin–Feir instability mechanism. We apply this framework to study the emergence and control of anisotropic spatiotemporal chaos in rectangular and curved domains. Our theoretical framework and specific solutions all point to time‐varying anisotropy being a potentially valuable feature for the manipulation and control of waves in anisotropic media.
New insights into the phylogeny of Neogastropoda aided by draft genome sequencing of a volutid snail
Authors: Wang Hui , He Xing , Chen Chong , Gao Kexin , Dai Yuran , Sun Jin
Published: July 2024

Neogastropoda is a large order of predominantly marine gastropod molluscs, typically predatory or parasitic on other animals. It includes over 16,000 species representing a large post‐Cretaceous radiation, but the internal phylogenetic relationships of contained taxa are far from resolved, with inconsistent results from nuclear genes, mitogenomes, and morphology. One major issue in reconstructing the molecular phylogeny is the lack of high‐quality sequences for early‐diverging families and superfamilies such as Volutidae (Volutoidea). Here, we examine the superfamily‐level phylogenetic relationships in Neogastropoda, aided by newly sequenced draft genome and mitogenome of the volutid snail Fulgoraria chinoi from the deep sea off Japan. The genome of F. chinoi is relatively large at 1.54 Gb but exhibits low genome heterozygosity; over 54% of this genome constitutes of repeat contents, and we find evidence for active insertion of transposable elements, particularly LINEs and SINEs. A total of 50,792 protein‐coding genes (PCGs) were predicted from the nuclear genome, and a circular mitogenome was also assembled and annotated. Our phylogenetic analyses using mitogenomes recovered each neogastropod superfamily as monophyletic, though also revealed inconsistent phylogenetic signals within superfamilies. Phylogenetic reconstructions using the PCGs resulted in a robust tree from different models and data matrices, recovering Volutoidea as the earliest diverging superfamily (among those for which comparable data is available) within a monophyletic Neogastropoda. Dated phylogenetic analysis revealed an early Cretaceous radiation of Neogastropoda, congruent with the fossil record. Our study provides a robust internal evolutionary framework for the speciose but genomically undersampled Neogastropoda, and expands the available genomic resources for this order. Genomic data for key missing lineages such as Mitroidea, Olivoidea, and Cancellariidae are much sought in the future for a full understanding of Neogastropoda evolution.
Gene-specific transcriptional activation by the
Aspergillus fumigatus
AtrR factor requires a conserved C-terminal domain
Authors: Ror Shivani , Stamnes Mark A. , Moye-Rowley W. Scott
Published: July 2024

Treatment of fungal infections associated with the filamentous fungus
Aspergillus fumigatus
is becoming more problematic as this organism is developing resistance to the main chemotherapeutic drug at an increasing rate. Azole drugs represent the current standard-of-care in the treatment of aspergillosis with this drug class acting by inhibiting a key step in the biosynthesis of the fungal sterol ergosterol. Azole compounds block the activity of the lanosterol α-14 demethylase, encoded by the
cyp51A
gene. A common route of azole resistance involves an increase in transcription of
cyp51A
. This transcriptional increase requires the function of a Zn2Cys6 DNA-binding domain-containing transcription activator protein called AtrR. AtrR was identified through its action as a positive regulator of expression of an ATP-binding cassette transporter (
abcC
/
cdr1B
here called
abcG1
). Using both deletion and alanine scanning mutagenesis, we demonstrate that a conserved C-terminal domain in
A. fumigatus
is required for the expression of
abcG1
but dispensable for
cyp51A
transcription. This domain is also found in several other fungal pathogen AtrR homologs consistent with a conserved gene-selective function of this protein segment being conserved. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we find that this gene-specific transcriptional defect extends to several other membrane transporter-encoding genes including a second ABC transporter locus. Our data reveal that AtrR uses at least two distinct mechanisms to induce gene expression and that normal susceptibility to azole drugs cannot be provided by maintenance of wild-type expression of the ergosterol biosynthetic pathway when ABC transporter expression is reduced.

IMPORTANCE

Aspergillus fumigatu
s is the primary human filamentous fungal pathogen. The principal chemotherapeutic drug used to control infections associated with
A. fumigatus
is the azole compound. These drugs are well-tolerated and effective, but resistance is emerging at an alarming rate. Most resistance is associated with mutations that lead to overexpression of the azole target enzyme, lanosterol α-14 demethylase, encoded by the cyp51A gene. A key regulator of cyp51A gene expression is the transcription factor AtrR. Very little is known of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of AtrR on gene expression. Here, we use deletion and clustered amino acid substitution mutagenesis to map a region of AtrR that confers gene-specific activation on target genes of this transcription factor. This region is highly conserved across AtrR homologs from other pathogenic species arguing that its importance in transcriptional regulation is maintained across evolution.
Supplemental Material: The construction of the Giza pyramids chronicled by human copper contamination
Authors: Younes Gamal , Wang Yanna , Véron Alain , al. et
Published: July 2024

Figures S1 to S5 and Datasets S1 to S7.  
Clinical experiences, current approaches, opinions and awareness of healthcare professionals regarding the audio-vestibular consequences of individuals with traumatic brain injury: a cross-sectional online survey study
Authors: Bölükbaş Kübra , Edwards Laura , Baguley David M , Fackrell Kathryn
Published: July 2024

Objective

To explore the experiences, current approaches, opinions and awareness of healthcare professionals (HCPs) caring for adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) regarding the audio-vestibular consequences.

Design/setting

Cross-sectional online survey study.

Participants

HCPs with experience of caring for adults with TBI, who were not ENT (ear nose throat) specialists or audiologists.

Methods

The study was conducted from May 2022 to December 2022. The online survey consisted of 16 closed and open-text questions in English and Turkish about clinical experience, current approaches and awareness of audio-vestibular consequences following TBI. Frequencies of responses to closed questions and associations between variables were analysed using SPSS V.28. Open-text responses were summarised in Microsoft Excel.

Results

Seventy HCPs participated from 17 professions and 14 countries, with the majority from the UK (42.9%). HCPs stated that ‘some’ to ‘all’ of their patients had auditory problems such as ‘inability to understand speech-in-noise’ (66%), ‘tinnitus’ (64%), ‘hyperacusis’ (57%) and balance problems such as ‘dizziness’ (79%) and ‘vertigo’ (67%). Usually, HCPs asked about the balance status of patients at appointments and when they observed dizziness and/or balance disorder they used screening tests, most commonly finger-to-nose (53%). For auditory impairments, HCPs preferred referring patients with TBI to audiology/ENT services. However, 6% of HCPs felt that audio-vestibular conditions could be ignored on referral because patients with TBI struggled with many impairments. Additionally, 44% would suggest hearing aids to patients with TBI with hearing loss ‘if they would like to use’ rather than ‘definitely’.

Conclusions

Many audio-vestibular impairments are observed by HCPs caring for patients with TBI. The assessment and intervention opinions and awareness of HCPs for these impairments vary. However, non-expert HCPs may not be aware of negative consequences of untreated audio-vestibular impairments following TBI. Therefore, developing a simple framework for screening and indications of audio-vestibular impairments for referral may be helpful for non-audiological specialists regularly seeing these patients.
Access to personalised dementia care planning in primary care: a mixed methods evaluation of the PriDem intervention
Authors: Spencer Emily , Griffiths Sarah , Flanagan Katie , O'Keeffe Aidan , Wiegand Martin , Benjamin Lewis , D'Andrea Federica , Wilcock Jane , Poole Marie , Walters Kate R , Robinson Louise , Rait Greta
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Provision of personalised care planning is a national priority for people with dementia. Research suggests a lack of quality and consistency of care plans and reviews. The PriDem model of care was developed to deliver feasible and acceptable primary care-based postdiagnostic dementia care. We aimed to increase the adoption of personalised care planning for people with dementia, exploring implementation facilitators and barriers.

Design

Mixed-method feasibility and implementation study.

Setting

Seven general practices from four primary care networks (PCNs) in the Northeast and Southeast of England.

Participants

A medical records audit collected data on 179 community-dwelling people with dementia preintervention, and 215 during the intervention year. The qualitative study recruited 26 health and social care professionals, 14 people with dementia and 16 carers linked to participating practices.

Intervention

Clinical dementia leads (CDL) delivered a 12-month, systems-level intervention in participating PCNs, to develop care systems, build staff capacity and capability, and deliver tailored care and support to people with dementia and their carers.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Adoption of personalised care planning was assessed through a preintervention and postintervention audit of medical records. Implementation barriers and facilitators were explored through semistructured qualitative interviews and non-participant observation, analysed using codebook thematic analysis informed by Normalisation Process Theory.

Results

The proportion of personalised care plans increased from 37.4% (95% CI 30.3% to 44.5%) preintervention to 64.7% (95% CI 58.3% to 71.0%) in the intervention year. Qualitative findings suggest that the flexible nature of the PriDem intervention enabled staff to overcome contextual barriers through harnessing the skills of the wider multidisciplinary team, delivering increasingly holistic care to patients.

Conclusions

Meaningful personalised care planning can be achieved through a team-based approach. Although improved guidelines for care planning are required, commissioners should consider the benefits of a CDL-led approach.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN11677384.