bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notch4 regulatory T cells and SARS‐CoV‐2 viremia shape COVID19 survival outcome
Authors: Benamar Mehdi , Lai Peggy S. , Huang Ching‐Ying , Chen Qian , Oktelik Fatma Betul , Contini Paola , Wang Muyun , Okin Daniel , Crestani Elena , Fong Jason , Fion Tsz Man Chan , Gokbak Merve Nida , Harb Hani , Phipatanakul Wanda , Marri Luca , Vassallo Chiara , Guastalla Andrea , Kim Minsik , Sui Hui‐Yu , Berra Lorenzo , Goldberg Marcia B. , Angelini Claudia , De Palma Raffaele , Chatila Talal A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Immune dysregulation and SARS‐CoV‐2 plasma viremia have been implicated in fatal COVID‐19 disease. However, how these two factors interact to shape disease outcomes is unclear.

Methods

We carried out viral and immunological phenotyping on a prospective cohort of 280 patients with COVID‐19 presenting to acute care hospitals in Boston, Massachusetts and Genoa, Italy between June 1, 2020 and February 8, 2022. Disease severity, mortality, plasma viremia, and immune dysregulation were assessed. A mouse model of lethal H1N1 influenza infection was used to analyze the therapeutic potential of Notch4 and pyroptosis inhibition in disease outcome.

Results

Stratifying patients based on %Notch4+ Treg cells and/or the presence of plasma viremia identified four subgroups with different clinical trajectories and immune phenotypes. Patients with both high %Notch4+ Treg cells and viremia suffered the most disease severity and 90‐day mortality compared to the other groups even after adjusting for baseline comorbidities. Increased Notch4 and plasma viremia impacted different arms of the immune response in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Increased Notch4 was associated with decreased Treg cell amphiregulin expression and suppressive function whereas plasma viremia was associated with increased monocyte cell pyroptosis. Combinatorial therapies using Notch4 blockade and pyroptosis inhibition induced stepwise protection against mortality in a mouse model of lethal H1N1 influenza infection.

Conclusions

The clinical trajectory and survival outcome in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 is predicated on two cardinal factors in disease pathogenesis: viremia and Notch4+ Treg cells. Intervention strategies aimed at resetting the immune dysregulation in COVID‐19 by antagonizing Notch4 and pyroptosis may be effective in severe cases of viral lung infection.
p38α kinase governs muscle strength through PGC1α in mice
Authors: Herrera‐Melle Leticia , Cicuéndez Beatriz , López Juan Antonio , Dumesic Phillip A. , Wilensky Sarah E. , Rodríguez Elena , Leiva‐Vega Luis , Caballero Ainoa , León Marta , Vázquez Jesús , Spiegelman Bruce M. , Folgueira Cintia , Mora Alfonso , Sabio Guadalupe
Published: October 2024

Aims

Skeletal muscle, with its remarkable plasticity and dynamic adaptation, serves as a cornerstone of locomotion and metabolic homeostasis in the human body. Muscle tissue, with its extraordinary capacity for force generation and energy expenditure, plays a fundamental role in the movement, metabolism, and overall health. In this context, we sought to determine the role of p38α in mitochondrial metabolism since mitochondrial dynamics play a crucial role in the development of muscle‐related diseases that result in muscle weakness.

Methods

We conducted our study using male mice (MCK‐cre, p38αMCK‐KO and PGC1α MCK‐KO) and mouse primary myoblasts. We analyzed mitochondrial metabolic, physiological parameters as well as proteomics, western blot, RNA‐seq analysis from muscle samples.

Results

Our findings highlight the critical involvement of muscle p38α in the regulation of mitochondrial function, a key determinant of muscle strength. The absence of p38α triggers changes in mitochondrial dynamics through the activation of PGC1α, a central regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. These results have substantial implications for understanding the complex interplay between p38α kinase, PGC1α activation, and mitochondrial content, thereby enhancing our knowledge in the control of muscle biology.

Conclusions

This knowledge holds relevance for conditions associated with muscle weakness, where disruptions in these molecular pathways are frequently implicated in diminishing physical strength. Our research underscores the potential importance of targeting the p38α and PGC1α pathways within muscle, offering promising avenues for the advancement of innovative treatments. Such interventions hold the potential to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by muscle‐related diseases.
Evaluation of Quinoline‐Related Carboxylic Acid Derivatives as Prospective Differentially Antiproliferative, Antioxidative, and Anti‐Inflammatory Agents
Authors: Arabiyat Shereen , Alzoubi Ahmad , Al‐Daghistani Hala , Al‐Hiari Yusuf , Kasabri Violet , Alkhateeb Rema
Published: October 2024

The higher prevalence of cancer and the unmet need for antioxidant/anti‐inflammatory chemotherapeutic compounds with little side effect are of utmost importance. In addition, the increased likelihood of failure in clinical trials along with increasing development costs may have diminished the range of choices among newer drugs for clinical use. This has dictated the necessity to seek out novel medications by repurposing as it needs less time, effort, and resources to explore new uses of a current or unsuccessful medication. In this study, we examined the biological activity of 10 potential quinoline derivatives. Given the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 value) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation of RAW264.7 mouse macrophages, all commercial FQs and selected quinolines (quinoline‐4‐carboxlic and quinoline‐3‐carboxylic acids) exerted impressively appreciable anti‐inflammation affinities versus classical NSAID indomethacin without related cytotoxicities in inflamed macrophages. Conversely, all 14 tested compounds lacked antioxidative DPPH radical scavenging capacities as compared to ascorbic acid. Gemifloxacin, considerably unlike markets FQs, indomethacin and quinoline derivatives, exerted exceptional and differential antiproliferation propensities in colorectum SW480, HCT116, and CACO2, pancreatic PANC1, prostate PC3, mammary T47D, lung A375, and melanoma A549 adherent monolayers using the sulforhodamine B colorimetric method versus antineoplastic cisplatin. All quinoline derivatives and gemifloxacin alike, but not levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, or indomethacin, displayed substantially selective viability reduction affinities in prolonged tumor incubations of cervical HELA and mammary MCF7 cells. Specifically kynurenic acid (hydrate), quinoline‐2‐carboxylic acid, quinoline‐4‐carboxylic acid, quinoline‐3‐carboxylic acid, and 1,2‐dihydro‐2‐oxo‐4‐quinoline carboxylic acids possessed the most remarkable growth inhibition capacities against mammary MCF7 cell line, while quinoline‐2‐carboxylic acid was the only quinoline derivative with significant cytotoxicity on cervical HELA cancer cells. It is highly speculated that chelation with divalent metals via co‐planarity with close proximity of the COOH and the N atom could have the potential molecular mechanism for optimally promising repurposed pharmacologies. Conclusively, this study revealed the considerably profound repurposed duality of cytotoxicity and anti‐inflammation pharmacologies of quinoline derivatives. Activity‐guided structural modifications of the present nuclear scaffolds can be inherently linked to the betterment and enhancement of their repurposed pharmacologies.
Child–father and child–mother attachment relationships in naturalistic settings
Authors: Trumbell Jill M. , Posada German , Anaya Laura , Kim Geurim , Liu Muqing
Published: October 2024

This study examines paternal and maternal sensitivity as predictors of toddlers' attachment security in two naturalistic contexts. Seventy‐three mostly White middle‐class families participated between 2015 and 2019 when children (49.3% girls) were approximately 29.48 months old. Each child–parent dyad completed a home and playground visit. Findings revealed paternal and maternal sensitivity were significantly associated at home and marginally at the playground. Paternal sensitivity was only predictive of security to the father at the playground, showing a medium effect, while small effects of maternal sensitivity on security to the mother were found in both contexts. Cross‐parent contributions to security were small and limited to the playground. The need to consider the greater ecology of child–parent relationships and suggestions for larger‐scale research are discussed.
Adrenal Vein Sampling for Primary Aldosteronism: Recommendations From the Australian and New Zealand Working Group
Authors: Yang Jun , Bell Damon A. , Carroll Richard , Chiang Cherie , Cowley Diane , Croker Emma , Doery James C. G. , Elston Marianne , Glendenning Paul , Hetherington Julie , Horvath Andrea R. , Lu‐Shirzad Shanshan , Ng Elisabeth , Mather Amanda , Perera Nimalie , Rashid Muddassir , Sachithanandan Nirupa , Shen Jimmy , Stowasser Michael , Swarbrick Michael J. , Tan Hong Lin Evelyn , Thuzar Moe , Young Simon , Chong Winston
Published: October 2024

Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is the current recommended procedure for identifying unilateral subtypes of primary aldosteronism (PA), which are amenable to surgery with the potential for cure. AVS is a technically challenging procedure usually undertaken by interventional radiologists at tertiary centres. However, there are numerous variations in AVS protocols relating to patient preparation, sampling techniques and interpretation which may impact the success of AVS and patient care. To reduce practice variations, improve the success rates of AVS and optimise patient outcomes, we established an Australian and New Zealand AVS Working Group and developed evidence‐based expert consensus recommendations for the preparation, performance and interpretation of AVS. These recommendations can be used by all healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team who look after the diagnosis and management of PA.
Evaluation of Multiple Tissue Levels Frequently Upstages Patients With Clinically Localized Thin Primary Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Jackett Louise A. , Gullifer James P. , Scolyer Richard A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Breslow thickness (BT), ulceration, and microsatellitosis are critical prognostic parameters for cutaneous melanoma staging. These parameters can vary depending on the number of tissue levels examined from individual paraffin blocks. We sought to evaluate all prognostic histopathologic parameters in melanoma for their variations between levels, taken at regular intervals, in a single study.

Methods

We analyzed 40 consecutive cases of primary cutaneous (nonacral) melanoma through five hematoxylin and eosin sections, taken at 100 μm intervals, for staging and prognostic parameters.

Results

Examination of additional levels resulted in (a) an increase in BT in 47.5% (19 out of 40) of cases and (b) detection of ulceration in a further 5% (2/40). This resulted in upstaging for 20% (8 out of 40) of patients (15% because of BT, 2.5% because of ulceration, and 2.5% because of BT and ulceration). The upstaging effect was incremental, with approximately 5% of patients upstaged with each additional 100 μm interval (up to 400 μm). Incipient ulceration and epidermal consumption were infrequent (10% of cases); however, when present, ulceration was subsequently observed in half of cases. We encountered no cases where microsatellitosis was detected at deeper levels.

Conclusion

The performance of additional tissue levels is a simple and inexpensive procedure that can improve the accuracy of staging for patients with thin (pT1) primary cutaneous melanomas. It may be pertinent for pathologists to consider additional levels for thin melanomas when a BT measurement is close to a staging threshold (e.g., within 0.1–0.3 mm for pT1a vs. pT1b, or pT1b vs. pT2a), or when incipient ulceration is encountered.
Brief history of the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, The University of Tokyo
Authors: Murata Jin
Published: October 2024

The history of the Koishikawa Botanical Gardens, The University of Tokyo, is briefly introduced with reference to the research of Ogasawara flora.
Mothers' experiences of stigma and blame: The views of mothers of people who use substances
Authors: O'Dowd Edith , Hunter Simon C. , Canfield Martha
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to make the distinction between courtesy stigma and parent‐blame, two related but unique forms of judgment, and to explore the consequence of courtesy stigma and parent‐blame.

Background

Having a child who uses substances has been linked to numerous adverse mental and physical health implications for family members. Parents, in particular, are at great risk of experiencing negative consequences including courtesy stigma and parent‐blame.

Method

We conducted in‐depth interviews with eight mothers of individuals who use substances. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three primary themes were identified: the spreading impact of stigma, parent‐blame, and coping with stigma and blame.

Conclusion

In this study we were able to distinguish between courtesy stigma and parent‐blame when considering the experiences of mothers of people who use substances. Findings suggest that stigma and blame leave mothers feeling judged and alone when navigating complex family dynamics.

Implications

Family support organizations offer accepting spaces that counter judgment and generate a sense of connectedness. Our findings stress the importance of professionals cultivating an awareness of the consequence of stigma and blame when working with mothers of people who use substances.
Parentification and satisfaction of psychological needs in romantic relationships: The mediating role of relational attitudes
Authors: Tolmacz Rami , Hasson Shaked , Cohen Michal , Mikulincer Mario
Published: October 2024

Objective

We examined the association between adult women's reports of parentification during childhood and the extent to which basic psychological needs are satisfied in romantic relationships. We also explored the mediating role of sense of relational entitlement, pathological concern, and authenticity in relational contexts.

Background

Negative implications of adults' sense of being parentified as children have been observed in relational feelings, cognitions, and behavior.

Method

A convenience sample of 225 Israeli young adult women completed self‐report scales tapping retrospective accounts of parentification, basic psychological needs in romantic relationships, sense of relational entitlement, pathological concern, and relational authenticity. The data were analyzed with Pearson correlations and a mediation analysis.

Results

Parentification was associated with lower levels of need satisfaction and authenticity within romantic relationships and higher levels of pathological concern and either a restricted or inflated sense of relational entitlement. An inflated sense of relational entitlement and lack of authenticity mediated the association between women's reports of parentification and the extent to which they feel their personal needs are satisfied in romantic relationships.

Conclusion

Women who feel parentified during childhood tend to show negative expectations of relational mutuality and experience difficulties in disclosing their personal needs and wishes to a partner, which seem to lead them to feel that their basic psychological needs are not satisfied in romantic relationships.

Implications

Findings highlight the problematic nature of feelings of being parentified as children and the importance of helping people who hold these feeling to communicate their relational needs to a romantic partner.
A Review of Analytical Techniques to Characterise Nanomaterial Associations with Minerals, Organic Matter and Organisms
Authors: Schindler Michael , Akbari Alavijeh Mozhgan , Oliveira Marcos L.S. , Silva Luis F.O.
Published: October 2024

Nanomaterials (NMs) have unique properties and control processes relevant to the fate of contaminants in soils, air, and aquatic systems and within the carbon cycle. Many NMs often occur in association with larger mineral grains, organic matter, or living organisms such as microbes, plants and fungi. The preservation of the spatial, textural, chemical, and mineralogical relations between NMs and minerals, organic matter, and organism (NM‐associations) is of fundamental importance as it provides information about the origin and formation mechanisms of NMs. Here we review analytical approaches and techniques to study NM‐associations at the bulk‐, micro‐, nano‐ and atomic‐scale. We will focus on (a) X‐ray diffraction and mass‐spectroscopy techniques; (2) automatisms within software packages that permit the search of features without operators; (3) preparation and analytical techniques such as the focused‐ion beam technology, transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography; (4) nano‐spectroscopic techniques such as tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy, synchrotron infrared nanospectroscopy, and nano‐X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy; (5) ptychographic X‐ray computer tomography. This review paper concludes with selected new perspectives such as (a) the characterisation of NM‐precursors, (b) the role of NM‐associations in the stabilisation of soil organic matter and (c) the interaction of NM‐associations in wildfire smoke with contaminants from other sources.
Living With Multiple Sclerosis: The Rainbow of Inspiring Experiences and Resilience in the Face of the Disease
Authors: Zare Leily , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Bahramnezhad Fatemeh , Rasti Arezoo
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS), a leading cause of disability in young adults worldwide, including in Iran, affects their whole life so common care is no longer effective. In this regard, context‐based approaches should be considered for a holistic care delivery that accords with the patients' inputs. We aimed to explore patients' understanding of MS and their personal experiences of living with this disease.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. The data were collected through in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with 17 patients. These patients were selected using a purposive sampling method, and the data were analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach.

Findings

Three main categories and nine subcategories were identified: Thunder and Lightning strike in the form of Displeasure, Social wrong beliefs, Experiences of Constraints, Interference with Life Stages and Dark Spots on the Horizon of the Future; Subtle Beam consisting of Extrinsic Light Radiation, Reflection of Individual Effort and Formation of a Rainbow by Resilience and Hope for a Bright Future.

Conclusion

By offering multidimensional support, patients reported a shift from fear to a vibrant life. Although research often focuses on the negative aspects of MS, this study recognizes both positive and negative aspects. These findings can contribute to future interventional research.

Patient or Public Contribution

During the explanation of research goals and consent acquisition, participants were reminded that sharing their experiences could provide valuable insights benefiting others coping with or at risk of the same disease. Additionally, during data analysis, codes extracted were reviewed and improved with active participant involvement.
Disrupted Candidacy: A Longitudinal Examination of the Constrained Healthcare‐Access Journeys of National Health Service Workers in Scotland Seeking Supports for Long COVID Illness
Authors: Adams Nicholas Norman , MacIver Emma , Douglas Flora , Kennedy Catriona , Skåtun Diane , Hernandez Santiago Virginia , Torrance Nicola , Grant Aileen
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Evidence examines how persons experiencing Long COVID (LC) struggle to secure healthcare for symptoms. However, few studies examine healthcare workers experiencing LC, nor the complex and multiple difficulties faced when seeking and receiving healthcare.

Methods

This study is based on two phases of longitudinally conducted qualitative interviews, 6 months apart, with National Health Service (NHS) workers experiencing LC, from different occupational roles at NHS locales in Scotland (first interviews, n = 50; second interviews, n = 44).

Results

Multiple factors restricted healthcare access, including worries about pressuring the NHS and concerns over LC being legitimised. When healthcare was sought, workers struggled to secure support, referrals and treatment. The following reasons were included: (1) context: the restrictive pandemic healthcare context; (2) illness climate: low GP knowledge surrounding LC and how this could be treated, trends for ascribing symptoms to other causes and reluctance to diagnose LC; (3) sense‐making of LC: healthcare availability linked to occupational role identity. To visualise and examine healthcare barriers, candidacy theory is applied, drawing inferences between healthcare context, illness climate, sense‐making and identities.

Conclusion

NHS workers' complex journeys represent Disrupted Candidacy, intersecting challenges across candidacy domains, restricting the seeking and receiving of LC healthcare. Findings provide insights into why NHS workers resisted and withdrew from healthcare‐seeking, and the barriers they faced when attempting to secure LC support. This study presents a pathway for future LC illness research to use a modified candidacy theory framework.

Patient and Public Contribution

This research focuses on amplifying and learning from lived experiences, and the voices of NHS workers in Scotland experiencing LC. Interviews represent primary data for this study; thus, participants and their healthcare journeys are centred in this research and all aspects of production, reporting and output. Explicit discussions of stakeholder group involvement are highlighted in the methods section.
Effect of temperature and pH value on the stability of magnesium potassium phosphate hexahydrate
Authors: Pang Bo , Zhao Yuanhong , Zhang Guanhua , Guo Jinbo , Liu Runqing
Published: October 2024

Magnesium potassium phosphate hexahydrate (MgKPO4·6H2O) was used as solidification matrix to immobilize some radioactive element and some heavy metal ions, the stability of MgKPO4·6H2O under different conditions had become the focus. This work gives new insights on the stability of synthesized MgKPO4·6H2O in the different temperatures and pH values solutions. The solid phase transformed from synthesized MgKPO4·6H2O was characterized by X‐ray diffractometer (XRD), thermal gravity analysis (TG/DSC), Fourier‐transform infrared spectrum (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) at different temperature and pH values solution. Results indicated MgKPO4·6H2O had almost no phase transition at the temperature of 50°C and 60°C. Mg3(PO4)2·22H2O appears with the increase of solution temperature. The main phase is MgKPO4·6H2O at the pH of 9 and 12, minor MgHPO4·3H2O formed at the pH of 6, next Mg3(PO4)2·22H2O formed at the pH of 3 and 6. High pH value environment is beneficial for the maintenance of MgKPO4·6H2O. This study is an important guidance for the application of MgKPO4·6H2O crystal.
The influence of job enrichment on job embeddedness and sick presenteeism among nurses
Authors: Atalla Amal Diab Ghanem , El‐Ashry Ayman Mohamed , Mohamed Samia Mohamed Sobhi
Published: October 2024

Aim

To understand how job enrichment influences job embeddedness and sick presenteeism among nurses.

Background

Job satisfaction and retention are critical issues in healthcare, particularly among nurses. Job enrichment has been identified as a potential strategy to enhance job satisfaction and reduce turnover rates. Understanding its impact on job embeddedness and sick presenteeism can inform policies to improve nurse well‐being and organizational effectiveness.

Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive design following STROBE guidelines was used. Data were collected from 360 nurses working in critical care units of a large university hospital. Three scales were used to measure job enrichment, job embeddedness, and sick presenteeism.

Results

Nurses reported high job enrichment and embeddedness levels. However, a significant proportion also exhibited high levels of sick presenteeism. Strong positive correlations existed between job enrichment, job embeddedness, and sick presenteeism. Regression analyses revealed that job enrichment significantly predicted job embeddedness and sick presenteeism.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the complex interplay between job characteristics, organizational commitment, and employee health behaviors among nurses. Job enrichment emerged as a critical factor influencing job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and sick presenteeism. The study underscores the need for health policies that promote job enrichment strategies, as they can contribute to nurse retention, reduce sick presenteeism, and enhance productivity in healthcare settings.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Nurse retention and job satisfaction can be improved by implementing job enrichment practices in healthcare organizations. Policies to reduce sick presenteeism should prioritize creating healthier work environments and promoting employee well‐being. Understanding the cost‐effectiveness and productivity gains associated with job enrichment can inform workforce planning and staffing policies, ensuring adequate nurse staffing levels and quality patient care.
Repeated short‐term sickness absence: A problem to be handled or a symptom to be prevented? A qualitative case study
Authors: Kirkegaard Tanja , Dalgaard Vita Ligaya P. , Grytnes R.
Published: October 2024

Repeated short‐term sickness absence has been linked to poor psychosocial work environment. However, the handling of short‐term sickness absence is often driven by a formal monitoring of employees' absence records rather than by a focus on enhancing well‐being at work. In this paper, based on interview data, we found that repeated short‐term sickness absence was primarily addressed as an individual employee issue, with limited focus on prevention through improvements in the work environment such as fostering trust between employees' and managers and promoting overall well‐being at work.
Effect of chia seeds or concentrated fish oil on cardiometabolic risk markers in subjects with hypertriglyceridaemia: a parallel clinical trial
Authors: Shahparvari Mohammad Reza , Nasrollahzadeh Javad
Published: October 2024

Background

The beneficial effects of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in reducing high blood triglyceride (TG) levels have been well demonstrated. This study aimed to investigate the effect of chia seeds on blood TG and its associated cardiometabolic factors in hypertriglyceridaemic individuals.

Methods

This three‐group randomised controlled trial compared the effects of a low‐calorie diet (n = 22), a low‐calorie diet with chia seeds (30 g/day, n = 22) or a low‐calorie diet with concentrated fish oil (1.8 g/day of n‐3 long‐chain PUFAs, n = 22) in patients with hypertriglyceridaemia. Anthropometrics, fasting blood lipids, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9, insulin, adiponectin, leptin and interleukin‐6 levels were measured.

Results

After 8 weeks, the mean reduction in weight exhibited by the three groups was not statistically different (2.0, 2.7 and 2.8 kg, respectively, for the control, fish oil and chia seed groups). The plasma TG decreased in both the chia seed and fish oil groups in comparison to the control group (p = 0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between the chia seed and fish oil groups (change from baseline mean: 145.2 and 136.7 mg/dL for the chia seed and fish oil groups, respectively). The consumption of chia seeds was associated with a reduction in diastolic blood pressure (change from baseline mean: 8.4 mmHg) compared to the other two groups. No significant alterations were observed in the other blood biochemical factors between the three groups.

Conclusions

In people with moderate hypertriglyceridaemia, a low‐calorie diet with 30 g of chia seeds compared to fish oil supplements containing 1.8 g of long‐chain PUFAs has a similar effect on reducing plasma TG levels, whereas it has a higher blood pressure–lowering effect.
Evolution of gene networks underlying adaptation to drought stress in the wild tomato Solanum chilense
Authors: Wei Kai , Sharifova Saida , Zhao Xiaoyun , Sinha Neelima , Nakayama Hokuto , Tellier Aurélien , Silva‐Arias Gustavo A.
Published: October 2024

Drought stress is a key limitation for plant growth and colonization of arid habitats. We study the evolution of gene expression response to drought stress in a wild tomato, Solanum chilense, naturally occurring in dry habitats in South America. We conduct a transcriptome analysis under standard and drought experimental conditions to identify drought‐responsive gene networks and estimate the age of the involved genes. We identify two main regulatory networks corresponding to two typical drought‐responsive strategies: cell cycle and fundamental metabolic processes. The metabolic network exhibits a more recent evolutionary origin and a more variable transcriptome response than the cell cycle network (with ancestral origin and higher conservation of the transcriptional response). We also integrate population genomics analyses to reveal positive selection signals acting at the genes of both networks, revealing that genes exhibiting selective sweeps of older age also exhibit greater connectivity in the networks. These findings suggest that adaptive changes first occur at core genes of drought response networks, driving significant network re‐wiring, which likely underpins species divergence and further spread into drier habitats. Combining transcriptomics and population genomics approaches, we decipher the timing of gene network evolution for drought stress response in arid habitats.
Agrobacterium‐mediated Cuscuta campestris transformation as a tool for understanding plant–plant interactions
Authors: Adhikari Supral , Mudalige Asha , Phillips Lydia , Lee Hyeyoung , Bernal‐Galeano Vivian , Gruszewski Hope , Westwood James H. , Park So‐Yon
Published: October 2024

Cuscuta campestris, a stem parasitic plant, has served as a valuable model plant for the exploration of plant–plant interactions and molecular trafficking. However, a major barrier to C. campestris research is that a method to generate stable transgenic plants has not yet been developed.

Here, we describe the development of a Cuscuta transformation protocol using various reporter genes (GFP, GUS, or RUBY) and morphogenic genes (CcWUS2 and CcGRF/GIF), leading to a robust protocol for Agrobacterium‐mediated C. campestris transformation.

The stably transformed and regenerated RUBY C. campestris plants produced haustoria, the signature organ of parasitic plants, and these were functional in forming host attachments. The locations of T‐DNA integration in the parasite genome were confirmed through TAIL‐PCR. Transformed C. campestris also produced flowers and viable transgenic seeds exhibiting betalain pigment, providing proof of germline transmission of the RUBY transgene. Furthermore, RUBY is not only a useful selectable marker for the Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation, but may also provide insight into the movement of molecules from C. campestris to the host during parasitism.

Thus, the protocol for transformation of C. campestris reported here overcomes a major obstacle to Cuscuta research and opens new possibilities for studying parasitic plants and their interactions with hosts.
Fertility Transitions in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: The Role of Preferences
Authors: Bongaarts John
Published: October 2024

Since the mid‐twentieth century, the Global South has experienced unprecedently rapid and pervasive changes in reproductive behavior with fertility declining from high pre‐transitional levels to below 3 births per woman in most low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Over time a rough consensus has been reached on major theories about the causes of these declines. However, a controversy remains about the widely held view that changing reproductive preferences (i.e., declining desired family size and rising demand for birth limitation) are the dominant drivers of fertility transitions. Several studies question this conclusion and suggest instead that the rising implementation of existing demand is the main cause of the reproductive revolution in LMICs. The objective of this study is to reconcile the competing “demand” and “implementation” perspectives. This paper assesses the strengths and weaknesses of published decompositions which take trends in the observed total fertility and contraceptive prevalence and break them down into their respective demand and implementation components. The main conclusion from this exercise is that fertility transitions are driven by changes in both preferences and their implementation. Claims of a completely dominant role for either demand or implementation are based on flawed methods and hence must be rejected.
An eye tracking study of gender biased information acquisition in candidate evaluation
Authors: Jenke Libby
Published: October 2024

Gender stereotypes may impact voters' candidate choices. But do gender stereotypes impact voters' attention when learning about candidates? This paper explores whether citizens take part in gender biased information acquisition when learning about women and men candidates. In an experiment, I use eye tracking to measure respondents' attention to gender stereotype‐consistent and inconsistent information. The results indicate that citizens do not differ in their attention to different candidate information according to candidate gender. Additionally, respondents' own sex does not make a difference in their attention to masculine‐ and feminine‐stereotyped information for women or men candidates. These findings provide an important specification of the mechanism behind gender bias in candidate choices: the bias appears to be different standards of judgment for candidates of different genders, not different compositions of information being judged for candidates of different genders.
Accelerating wheat improvement through trait characterization: advances and perspectives
Authors: Roychowdhury Rajib , Ghatak Arindam , Kumar Manoj , Samantara Kajal , Weckwerth Wolfram , Chaturvedi Palak
Published: October 2024

Wheat (Triticum spp.) is a primary dietary staple food for humanity. Many wheat genetic resources with variable genomes have a record of domestication history and are widespread throughout the world. To develop elite wheat varieties, agronomical and stress‐responsive trait characterization is foremost for evaluating existing germplasm to promote breeding. However, genomic complexity is one of the primary impediments to trait mining and characterization. Multiple reference genomes and cutting‐edge technologies like haplotype mapping, genomic selection, precise gene editing tools, high‐throughput phenotyping platforms, high‐efficiency genetic transformation systems, and speed‐breeding facilities are transforming wheat functional genomics research to understand the genomic diversity of polyploidy. This review focuses on the research achievements in wheat genomics, the available omics approaches, and bioinformatic resources developed in the past decades. Advances in genomics and system biology approaches are highlighted to circumvent bottlenecks in genomic and phenotypic selection, as well as gene transfer. In addition, we propose conducting precise functional genomic studies and developing sustainable breeding strategies for wheat. These developments in understanding wheat traits have speed up the creation of high‐yielding, stress‐resistant, and nutritionally enhanced wheat varieties, which will help in addressing global food security and agricultural sustainability in the era of climate change.
Clinical and Imaging Outcomes Over 12 Weeks in Elite Athletes With Early‐Stage Tendinopathy
Authors: Meulengracht Christopher Strandberg , Seidler Marc , Svensson Rene Brüggebusch , Kracht Mathilde , Zeidan Ahmad , Christensen Kasper Ørnsvig , Jensen Mikkel Holm Hjortshøj , Hansen Phillip , Boesen Mikael , Brushøj Christoffer , Magnusson Stig Peter , Bahr Roald , Kjær Michael , Couppé Christian
Published: October 2024

Knowledge of how to treat chronic tendinopathy has advanced in recent years, but the treatment of early tendinopathy is not well understood. The main purpose of this prospective observational study was to investigate if changes occur in clinical and imaging outcomes over 12 weeks in elite athletes with recent debut of tendinopathy. Sixty‐five elite adult athletes (24 ± 5 years) with early Achilles or patellar tendinopathy (symptoms < 3 months) were examined at baseline and after 12 weeks. Patients were divided into groups based on the duration of symptoms at the time of inclusion: (T1): 0–1 month, (T2): 1–2 months, or (T3): 2–3 months. Pain‐guided activity modification was the only intervention. We assessed the following clinical outcomes: Questionnaires (Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment (VISA)) and pain scores (0–10 numeric rating scale, NRS), structural outcomes from ultrasonography: Thickness, echogenicity, and Doppler flow, and from magnetic resonance imaging: Cross‐sectional area (CSA), thickness and length. Tendinopathic Achilles and patellar tendons displayed no significant differences on imaging tendon structural outcomes between T1 (n = 19), T2 (n = 23), and T3 (n = 20) at baseline or after 12 weeks, with one exception: Patellar tendons in T1 were thicker than T2 and T3 at baseline. Although athletes improved clinically on VISA and most NRS scores after 12 weeks, affected tendons with greater thickness, CSA and Doppler flow than contralateral tendons at baseline remained unchanged after 12 weeks. In conclusion, these data suggest that early tendinopathy in elite athletes can improve clinically after 12 weeks while morphology remains unchanged.
‘Land is a huge integral part of our identity’: Patriarchy and the gender asset gap
Authors: Curtin Mary , Murphy Caroline , Woods Una , Cross Christine
Published: October 2024

The aim of this article is to examine female participation in farming and more specifically, the reasons for the low rate of female farm ownership in Ireland where only 13% of Irish farm owners are female. Females are excluded from the occupation of a farmer because land ownership is the key needed in most instances to being a farmer in one's own right. Females are farming, but too often, they are not owners of the farms they work on. We investigate the structural and cultural factors that alleviate or contribute to the inequality in Irish farm ownership. To address the research question, a qualitative study involving 35 semi‐structured interviews was carried out with both women and men in the Irish farming sector. This research recognises the positive role the state can play, as supported by cultural and institutional theory, by making legal and financial policy changes that can help effect change.
Shear‐wave elastography of canine patellar tendons in healthy dogs and the influence of stifle joint angle
Authors: Embriano Kreig , Holland Merrilee , Corriveau Kayla M. , Hofmeister Erik , McCarthy Jess
Published: October 2024

Elastography is a sonographic modality that measures tissue stiffness, a mechanical property of tissues, and a biomarker for disease. Canine musculoskeletal application to the patellar tendon has been limited to semiqualitative strain elastography. This prospective study aimed to quantitatively evaluate patellar tendon stiffness using shear‐wave elastography with a color map superimposed over the tendon, a propagation map for quality control, and measurements at specific regions of interest in 16 clinically normal sedated dogs weighing 25 kg or greater. Tendon stiffness using shear‐wave elastography (SWE) was assessed at different stifle angles and in three regions to determine if angle and location affected stiffness. All dogs were screened with general and orthopedic exams, lateral stifle radiographs, and patellar tendon 2D ultrasound. Shear‐wave elastography was performed from a long axis at various stifle angles at the proximal, middle, and distal tendon segments. Quality diagnostic SWE results varied significantly with stifle angle, and 150° of extension was the only angle found to be clinically useful based on the ease of obtaining measurable results and a quality control propagation wave. Patellar tendons were primarily stiff with a red color elastogram. The proximal and middle segments, measured at various angles, had a mean SWE velocity of 7.32 ± 0.90 m/s. Tendon stiffness did not differ along tendon length when measured in greater extension. However, stiffness decreased in the middle segment of the tendon at 150° when compared with 120°. This study establishes a quantitative baseline of normal patellar tendon stiffness to compare with pathologic states.
CREATION OF AN EXPRESSION VECTOR FOR MULTIPLEX EDITING OF THE POTATO VACUOLAR INVERTASE GENE USING THE CRISPR/CAS9 SYSTEM
Authors: Akhmetollayeva A.S. , Manabayeva Sh.A.
Published: October 2024

Creating genetic engineering constructs for plant genome editing requires considerable time, material resources, and specialized equipment. A thorough understanding of the functions and efficacy of each construct element is critical to the design of specialized vectors for specific tasks. This article provides a detailed overview of the process of creating genetic engineering constructs for editing the invertase gene responsible for cold-induced sweetening (CIS) in potato tubers, starting with the design of the variable part of the guide RNA and ending with the assembly of the final expression vector for potato cell transformation. For this purpose, an analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the invertase gene from domestic potato varieties was performed, along with a comparative analysis the data from the NCBI database. Optimal targets for gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 technology were identified and the process of cloning two expression vectors for multiple genome editing was described. The expression vectors obtained allow the knockout of the potato acid invertase gene VInv/Pain-1. Considering that the expression level of Cas9 is a key factor for the efficiency of genome editing, a second expression vector containing the Tomato bushy stunt virus suppressor gene p19 was created to enhance the expression of this gene and the editing efficiency.
Firm misled investors on Alzheimer’s drug, SEC charges
Authors: Piller Charles
Published: October 2024

Agency fines Cassava Sciences $40 million for touting flawed research on simufilam
Ridgeward flow of compositionally heterogeneous mantle produces near-ridge seamount chains in the South Pacific
Authors: Guo Pengyuan , Shen Fangyu , Li Dongyong , Zhao Yanghui , Zhang Lipeng , Wang Xiaohong , Duan Meng , Guo Kun , Sinton John , Niu Yaoling
Published: October 2024

Many near-ridge seamounts and seamount chains in the Pacific Ocean have a nonplume origin. Yet, their origin remains to be fully understood. Our new geochemical study on seamount basalts from the Pukapuka Ridge (PPR) finds a large along-ridge lava compositional variation with a gradual decrease in a geochemically enriched component toward the East Pacific Rise (EPR) axis. This spatial geochemical variation is best understood as resulting from decompression melting of compositionally heterogeneous mantle flowing toward the ridge, where the mantle consists of low-solidus materials of metasomatic origin dispersed within a more refractory peridotite matrix. Far from the ridge axis, preferential melting of enriched lower-solidus materials under thicker lithosphere leaves less enriched residues that undergo further decompression melting as they flow beneath thinner lithosphere toward the ridge axis. This process gives rise to the progressively less enriched lavas along the PPR chain toward the EPR. The residual enriched mantle component became embedded in the mantle beneath the southern EPR (13°S–23°S), forming an along-axis compositional dome at the EPR-PPR intersection (~17°S–19°S). We predict that nonplume seamounts are best expressed as linear chains near and perpendicular to ocean ridges on fast-spreading plates as long as the flowing mantle is sufficiently heterogeneous. This finding explains widespread seamounts of nonplume origin in the Pacific Ocean, and it also explains the geophysical asymmetries in the mantle electromagnetic tomography (MELT) area.
Learning from the Montreal Protocol to improve the global governance of antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Nanyangwe-Moyo Tina , Fezza Gabriel C , Rogers Van Katwyk Susan , Hoffman Steven J , Ruckert Arne , Orubu Samuel , Poirier Mathieu JP
Published: October 2024

The Montreal Protocol has played a critical role in promoting global collective action to phase out the use of ozone-depleting substances, ultimately preventing millions of cases of skin cancer, cataracts and other health issues related to ultraviolet radiation exposure. This success entails transferable lessons for coordinated action required to improve the global governance of other challenges. Like ozone depletion, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a challenge of the global commons, requiring coordinated actions across human, animal and environmental sectors. We identify equity, flexibility and accountability as three core governance principles that underlie the success of the protocol and employ the 3-i framework to understand how interests, ideas and institutions contributed to the protocol’s success. Equity-promoting strategies consisted of an inclusive negotiation process, supporting developing countries with multilateral funding and a progressive compliance model. Flexibility was built into the protocol through the development of country-specific strategies, reorienting incentive structures for industry and facilitating regular amendments in response to emerging scientific evidence. Accountability was promoted by mobilising public advocacy, establishing targets and enforcement mechanisms and conducting independent scientific and technical assessments. Applying our proposed principles presents an opportunity to improve the global governance of AMR. Finally, we acknowledge limitations to our analysis, including our focus on a single environmental treaty, significantly greater funding requirements and multifacetted stakeholder involvement in the case of AMR, differing market and incentives structures in antibiotic development and distribution, and ethical concerns with using trade restrictions as a policy tool.