bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real‐world experience with a treatment with a skincare regimen of products containing the Macrocystis pyrifera ferment for optimizing facial skin rejuvenation
Authors: Gold Michael , Frey Cheri , Chilukuri Suneel , Day Doris , Goldberg David J. , Henry Michelle , Lain Edward
Published: June 2024

Background

Specialized aesthetic skincare treatments are an important part of helping reduce facial signs of aging.

Aims

This article highlights real‐world experience with a Macrocystis pyrifera ferment‐containing skincare regimen comprising a cleansing foam, a serum, and a moisturizer with anti‐aging, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐erythema, and healing properties for facial skin condition improvement.

Patients/Methods

The real‐world case (RWC) series presented highlights and the expert panel's clinical experience with the M. pyrifera ferment‐containing skincare regimen used for 12 weeks to improve facial skin conditions. The panelists convened a meeting to discuss and select RWCs from their practice using the M. pyrifera ferment‐containing skincare regimen.

Results

The RWC series showed that erythema and inflamed, easily irritated skin bother patients, even when it is mild. Reducing inflammation, erythema, and visible signs of facial aging and improving skin health contributed to patient satisfaction.

Conclusion

The M. pyrifera ferment‐containing skincare regimen comprising a cleansing foam, a serum, and a moisturizer is effective in decreasing the visible effects of inflammation and signs of aging while promoting healing by enhancing barrier resilience and recovery.
Assessing the impact of long‐acting injectable compared to oral antipsychotic medications on readmission to a state psychiatric hospital
Authors: Okoli Chizimuzo T. C. , Abufarsakh Bassema , Wang Tianyi , Makowski Andrew , Cooley Andrew
Published: June 2024

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject

People living with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) have a higher death rate which is caused, in part, by poorer adherence to treatment as compared to those with other mental illnesses.

Using long‐acting injectable antipsychotic (LAI) medications can improve medication adherence and reduce hospitalizations for people living with SSD but are often underutilized.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge

As compared to oral antipsychotic medications provided to patients with SSD at discharge from a psychiatric hospitalization, being provided with an LAI antipsychotic medication may reduce subsequent rehospitalization.

Specifically, patients discharged on an atypical or second‐generation LAI medication are less likely to be readmitted to the hospital when compared to those discharged on a typical first‐generation oral medication.

What are the implications for practice

Because LAI antipsychotic medications are often underutilized as treatment options, the study findings suggest that this modality may be considered for patients with SSD when being discharged from a psychiatric hospitalization.

Ideally, psychiatric‐mental health nurses can educate patients about indications, benefits, and risks of using atypical or second‐generation LAI antipsychotic medications during hospitalization and at discharge prevent the risk for future rehospitalizations.

Introduction

People living with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) have poorer medication adherence compared to those with other mental illnesses. Long‐acting injectable antipsychotic (LAI) medication use is associated with greater adherence, reduced re‐hospitalizations, and improved recovery outcomes when compared to oral formulations.

Aim

To compare LAI antipsychotic medication use versus oral formulations on readmission to an inpatient hospital.

Method

Medical records (N = 707) from a state psychiatric hospital in the southern region of the United States were reviewed. Controlling for demographic variables, logistic regression analyses were used to examine LAI compared to oral formulations on readmission.

Results

Compared to patients discharged with oral antipsychotic medications, those with LAIs had a lower proportion of readmission rates in 6‐month and 1‐year periods, but not 30‐day or 2‐year periods. When controlling for demographic variables, those discharged with an atypical LAI had significantly lower odds of being readmitted within the 24‐year period compared to those discharged on a typical oral antipsychotic.

Discussion

Compared to orals, LAIs do not increase and may mitigate readmissions to psychiatric hospitalization.

Implications for Practice

Psychiatric‐mental health nurses and other professionals may recommend LAIs when indicated for those with SSD.
Nucleoid‐associated proteins of mycobacteria come with a distinctive flavor
Authors: Santoshi Meghna , Tare Priyanka , Nagaraja Valakunja
Published: June 2024

In every bacterium, nucleoid‐associated proteins (NAPs) play crucial roles in chromosome organization, replication, repair, gene expression, and other DNA transactions. Their central role in controlling the chromatin dynamics and transcription has been well‐appreciated in several well‐studied organisms. Here, we review the diversity, distribution, structure, and function of NAPs from the genus Mycobacterium. We highlight the progress made in our understanding of the effects of these proteins on various processes and in responding to environmental stimuli and stress of mycobacteria in their free‐living as well as during distinctive intracellular lifestyles. We project them as potential drug targets and discuss future studies to bridge the information gap with NAPs from well‐studied systems.
Reciprocal sharing of extracellular proteases and extracellular matrix molecules facilitates Bacillus subtilis biofilm formation
Authors: Rosazza Thibault , Earl Chris , Eigentler Lukas , Davidson Fordyce A. , Stanley‐Wall Nicola R.
Published: June 2024

Extracellular proteases are a class of public good that support growth of Bacillus subtilis when nutrients are in a polymeric form. Bacillus subtilis biofilm matrix molecules are another class of public good that are needed for biofilm formation and are prone to exploitation. In this study, we investigated the role of extracellular proteases in B.  subtilis biofilm formation and explored interactions between different public good producer strains across various conditions. We confirmed that extracellular proteases support biofilm formation even when glutamic acid provides a freely available nitrogen source. Removal of AprE from the NCIB 3610 secretome adversely affects colony biofilm architecture, while sole induction of WprA activity into an otherwise extracellular protease‐free strain is sufficient to promote wrinkle development within the colony biofilm. We found that changing the nutrient source used to support growth affected B. subtilis biofilm structure, hydrophobicity and architecture. We propose that the different phenotypes observed may be due to increased protease dependency for growth when a polymorphic protein presents the sole nitrogen source. We however cannot exclude that the phenotypic changes are due to alternative matrix molecules being made. Co‐culture of biofilm matrix and extracellular protease mutants can rescue biofilm structure, yet reliance on extracellular proteases for growth influences population coexistence dynamics. Our findings highlight the intricate interplay between these two classes of public goods, providing insights into microbial social dynamics during biofilm formation across different ecological niches.
Principles of bacterial genome organization, a conformational point of view
Authors: Ponndara Sokrich , Kortebi Mounia , Boccard Frédéric , Bury‐Moné Stéphanie , Lioy Virginia S.
Published: June 2024

Bacterial chromosomes are large molecules that need to be highly compacted to fit inside the cells. Chromosome compaction must facilitate and maintain key biological processes such as gene expression and DNA transactions (replication, recombination, repair, and segregation). Chromosome and chromatin 3D‐organization in bacteria has been a puzzle for decades. Chromosome conformation capture coupled to deep sequencing (Hi‐C) in combination with other “omics” approaches has allowed dissection of the structural layers that shape bacterial chromosome organization, from DNA topology to global chromosome architecture. Here we review the latest findings using Hi‐C and discuss the main features of bacterial genome folding.
Cleavage of an engulfment peptidoglycan hydrolase by a sporulation signature protease in Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Martins Diogo , Nerber Hailee N. , Roughton Charlotte G. , Fasquelle Amaury , Barwinska‐Sendra Anna , Vollmer Daniela , Gray Joe , Vollmer Waldemar , Sorg Joseph A. , Salgado Paula S. , Henriques Adriano O. , Serrano Mónica
Published: June 2024

In the model organism Bacillus subtilis, a signaling protease produced in the forespore, SpoIVB, is essential for the activation of the sigma factor σK, which is produced in the mother cell as an inactive pro‐protein, pro‐σK. SpoIVB has a second function essential to sporulation, most likely during cortex synthesis. The cortex is composed of peptidoglycan (PG) and is essential for the spore's heat resistance and dormancy. Surprisingly, the genome of the intestinal pathogen Clostridioides difficile, in which σK is produced without a pro‐sequence, encodes two SpoIVB paralogs, SpoIVB1 and SpoIVB2. Here, we show that spoIVB1 is dispensable for sporulation, while a spoIVB2 in‐frame deletion mutant fails to produce heat‐resistant spores. The spoIVB2 mutant enters sporulation, undergoes asymmetric division, and completes engulfment of the forespore by the mother cell but fails to synthesize the spore cortex. We show that SpoIIP, a PG hydrolase and part of the engulfasome, the machinery essential for engulfment, is cleaved by SpoIVB2 into an inactive form. Within the engulfasome, the SpoIIP amidase activity generates the substrates for the SpoIID lytic transglycosylase. Thus, following engulfment completion, the cleavage and inactivation of SpoIIP by SpoIVB2 curtails the engulfasome hydrolytic activity, at a time when synthesis of the spore cortex peptidoglycan begins. SpoIVB2 is also required for normal late gene expression in the forespore by a currently unknown mechanism. Together, these observations suggest a role for SpoIVB2 in coordinating late morphological and gene expression events between the forespore and the mother cell.
Rigidity and necessary application
Authors: Gómez‐Torrente Mario
Published: June 2024

The question whether the notion of rigidity can be extended in a fruitful way beyond singular terms has received a standard answer in the literature, according to which non‐singular terms designate kinds, properties or other abstract singular objects, and generalized rigidity is the same thing as singular term rigidity, but for terms designating such objects. I offer some new criticisms of this view and go on to defend an alternative view, on which non‐singular terms designate extensions in general, and generalized rigidity is identity of extension across possible worlds. I develop some fundamental positive considerations that make this view virtually inevitable as a view of generalized rigidity, emphasizing its exclusive ability to offer a purely logical justification of the necessity of several kinds of statements that go beyond true identity statements between rigid singular terms.
Epistemic practices: A unified account of epistemic and zetetic normativity
Authors: Fleisher Will
Published: June 2024

This paper presents the epistemic practices account, a theory about the nature of epistemic normativity. The account aims to explain how the pursuit of epistemic values such as truth and knowledge can give rise to epistemic norms. On this account, epistemic norms are the internal rules of epistemic social practices. The account explains four crucial features of epistemic normativity while dissolving some apparent tensions between them. The account also provides a unified theory of epistemic and zetetic normativity.
Clinical Perspectives on Surgical Reconstruction of Eccentric Tumors at the Distal Femur with Unicondylar Resection
Authors: Hu Xin , Wang Chende , Zeng Yi , Yang Xiao , Min Li
Published: June 2024

The distal femur is one of the most common sites for primary bone tumors. As the tumor progresses and bone destruction worsens, it can severely affect knee function and even pose a threat to life. In cases where only one condyle is affected and requires resection, preserving the healthy contralateral condyle can substantially enhance the biomechanics of the knee. Furthermore, preserving bone stock may enable future salvage procedures in the event of initial surgery failure, be it from fractures or osteoarthritis. Distal femoral unicondyle resection can offer better functional outcomes in select cases. However, it is essential to prioritize oncological safety with adequate margins over short‐term knee function. Currently, the primary methods for reconstruction after the excision of a unicondylar tumor include allograft transplantation (bi‐ or uni‐condylar) and prosthetic or allograft‐prosthesis composite replacement (APC). However, there is currently some controversy regarding the optimal surgical reconstruction method, and a consensus within the academic community has yet to be reached. Moreover, due to the rarity of bone tumors, extensive clinical data from a single center is limited. Current studies are mainly retrospective and single‐center, lacking sufficient cases and follow‐up duration. This article reviews surgical reconstruction after solitary condylar excision in distal femoral tumors. It summarizes, compares, and analyzes mainstream reconstruction methods, exploring their technical details and clinical outcomes to highlight their potential in bone oncology.
Public accountability and auditing: Why and when do state auditors conduct broad audits?
Authors: Natan‐Krup Dana , Mizrahi Shlomo
Published: June 2024

Public servants who monitor and supervise the administrative and political systems must consider the extent to which they are willing to stretch the boundaries of their role for holding public servants accountable. We develop an analytical framework of the factors that influence the decisions of such officials, focusing on state auditors. Using new institutionalism, we suggest that the social, cultural, and political context figures more prominently in state auditors' strategic calculations than purely professional considerations or individual factors. This bottom‐up perspective sheds new light on the role of such officials in democratic systems, and their dependence on citizens' awareness and active support in promoting accountability. We illustrate the theoretical framework using examples from Israel.
Cuffed versus uncuffed endotracheal tubes in neonates undergoing noncardiac surgeries: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sarhan Khaled , Walaa Rana , Hasanin Ahmed , Elgohary Manal , Alkonaiesy Ramy , Nawwar Kareem , Elsonbaty Mohamed , Elsonbaty Ahmad
Published: June 2024

Background

The efficacy and safety of cuffed endotracheal tubes (ETTs) in neonates are still unclear, this study aimed to assess the efficacy of cuffed versus uncuffed ETTs in neonate undergoing noncardiac surgeries.

Methods

Neonates scheduled for noncardiac surgeries were randomized into two groups according to the type of airway device during general anesthesia: cuffed ETT group (n = 60) and the uncuffed ETT group (n = 60). The primary outcome was the incidence of ETT exchange to find the appropriate ETT. Other outcomes included: duration of intubation, lung ultrasound score, and incidence of postoperative complications (croup, wheezes, hypoxia, etc.).

Results

The frequency of ETT exchange was lower in the cuffed ETT group compared to the uncuffed one {1 (1.7%) vs. 28 (46.7%), p = .0001; relative risk [95% confidence interval]: 0.54 [0.43–0.69]}. Postoperative adverse events were comparable between both groups except for significantly higher post extubation croup in the uncuffed ETT group compared to the cuffed ETT {10 (16.7%) vs. 3(5%), p value = .04, relative risk (95% confidence interval): 1.14 (1–1.29)}.

Conclusion

In full term neonates undergoing noncardiac surgeries, the use of cuffed ETT was associated with less need to tracheal tube exchange and less incidence of postoperative croup, without increasing the postoperative respiratory complications compared to uncuffed ETT.
Phytophthora in urban tree planting stock: Are we managing the risk to the urban forest and natural ecosystems?
Authors: Laurence Matthew H. , Mertin Allison A. , Scarlett Kelly , Pang Clara , Tabassum Samiya , Leishman Michelle R. , Burgess Treena I. , Guest David I. , Summerell Brett A.
Published: June 2024

The oomycete genus Phytophthora includes plant pathogens that pose significant threats to agricultural systems, natural ecosystems and urban forests. Urban forests are increasingly recognized for their role in mitigating climate change impacts and urban greening initiatives are underway worldwide. However, research suggests that the urban forest is also a reservoir of Phytophthora diversity, acting as bridgeheads for the introduction of these pathogens into production and natural ecosystems. The source of Phytophthora in urban forests is linked to anthropogenic factors, with the live plant trade the primary pathway. This study focused on the incidence and diversity of Phytophthora in amenity tree nursery stock in eastern Australia, primarily New South Wales, with one nursery from Victoria. The findings revealed a high incidence of Phytophthora in nursery stock destined for urban greening projects, having an overall positive rate of 22.1%, with incidence in individual nurseries ranging from 2.5% to 32%. The study detected 13 described Phytophthora species that are considered polyphagous on woody hosts and three lineages that potentially represent novel species. In addition, the detection of P. mediterranea and P. heterospora represent first reports for Australia, with P. mediterranea considered a biosecurity concern. The study highlights the substantial risk associated with the live plant trade as a source of Phytophthora introduction into urban forests and beyond. These findings underscore the urgent need to strictly implement clean nursery management practices to reduce the economic and environmental risks associated with Phytophthora in urban greening programmes.
John Shirwood and the reading of Plutarch's Lives in late fifteenth‐century England☆
Authors: Day Matthew
Published: June 2024

In the fifteenth century, Plutarch's Lives were popular among humanists for their moral and historical content. They circulated widely in humanist Latin translations in manuscript and later in print. This article examines the reading of printed copies of these translations in late fifteenth‐century England. It focuses on John Shirwood (d. 1493), Bishop of Durham, an avid English reader of humanist books. The article suggests that Shirwood's annotations to Plutarch should be interpreted as evidence of humanist reading in a recreational context. While modern studies on the history of reading classical texts have often emphasised Renaissance readers' structured, methodical approaches of annotation, Shirwood's copy of Plutarch's Lives reveals a clerk at leisure, enjoying humanist books outside of formal academic study. The article goes on to compare Shirwood's annotations of Plutarch's Lives with those of two other late fifteenth‐century English humanists: the similarly eclectic historical annotations of the bishop John Russell (d. 1494); and, as a counterpoint, the more structured moral and linguistic interests of the grammarian John Stanbridge (1463–1510). These three responses to the Latin translations of Plutarch's Lives thus indicate how educated individuals engaged with humanist texts at different levels of rigour, from methodical academic study to recreational enjoyment.
Probabilistic risk assessment of dietary exposure to benzophenone derivatives in cereals in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Yu‐Fang , Ju Yun‐Ru , Chen Hsin‐Chang
Published: June 2024

Benzophenone (BP) and BP derivatives (BPDs) are widely used as ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers in food packaging materials and as photoinitiators in UV‐curable inks for printing on food‐contact materials. However, our knowledge regarding the sources and risks of dietary exposure to BP and BPDs in cereals remains limited, which prompted us to conduct this study. We measured the levels of BP and nine BPDs—BP‐1, BP‐2, BP‐3, BP‐8, 2‐hydroxybenzophenone, 4‐hydroxybenzophenone, 4‐methylbenzophenone (4‐MBP), methyl‐2‐benzoylbenzoate, and 4‐benzoylbiphenyl—in three types of cereals (rice flour, oatmeal, and cornflakes; 180 samples in total). A Bayesian Markov‐chain Monte Carlo (MC) simulation approach was used for deriving the posterior distributions of BP and BPD residues. This approach helped in addressing the uncertainty in probabilistic distribution for the sampled data under the detection limit. Through an MC simulation, we calculated the daily exposure levels of dietary BP and BPDs and corresponding health risks. The results revealed the ubiquitous presence of BP, BP‐3, and 4‐MBP in cereals. Older adults (aged >65 years) had the highest (97.5 percentile) lifetime carcinogenic risk for BP exposure through cereals (9.41 × 10−7), whereas children aged 0–3 years had the highest (97.5 percentile) hazard indices for BPD exposure through cereals (2.5 × 10−2). Nevertheless, across age groups, the lifetime carcinogenic risks of BP exposure through cereals were acceptable, and the hazard indices for BPD exposure through cereals were <1. Therefore, BPD exposure through cereals may not be a health concern for individuals in Taiwan.
Every minute counts: A comparison of thawing times and haemostatic quality of plasma thawed at 37°C and 45°C using four different methods
Authors: McCullagh J. , Booth C. , Lancut J. , Platton S. , Richards P. , Green L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Having faster plasma thawing devices could be beneficial for transfusion services, as it may improve the rapid availability of thawed plasma for bleeding patients, and it might remove the need to have extended pre‐thawed plasma: thus, reducing unnecessary plasma wastage.

Study Design and Methods

The aims of this study were to assess (a) the thawing times and (b) in vitro haemostatic quality of thawed plasma using Barkey Plasmatherm V (PTV) at 37 and 45°C versus Barkey Plasmatherm Classic (PTC) at 37 and 45°C, Sarstedt Sahara‐III Maxitherm (SS‐III) at 37°C and Helmer Scientific Thermogenesis Thermoline (TT) at 37°C. Haemostatic quality was assessed using LG‐Octaplas at three different time points: baseline (5 min), 24 and 120 h after thawing.

Results

The thawing time (SD) of 2 and 4 units was significantly different between different thawers. PTV at 45°C was the fastest method for both 2 and 4 units (7.06 min [0.68], 9.6 min [0.87], respectively). SS‐III at 37°C being the slowest method (24.69 min [2.09] and 27.18 min [4.4], respectively) (p = < 0.05).

Baseline measurements for all assays showed no significant difference in the prothrombin time, fibrinogen, FII, FV, protein C activity or free protein S antigen between all methods tested. However, at baseline PTV (both 37°C and 45°C) had significantly higher levels of FVII, FVIII and FXI and shortened activated partial thromboplastin time.

Discussion

PTV was the quickest method at thawing plasma at both 37 and at 45°C. The haemostatic quality of plasma thawed at 45 versus 37°C was not impaired. Thawing frozen plasma at 45°C should be considered.
The R2R3 MYBRuby1 is activated by two cold responsive ethylene response factors, via the retrotransposon in its promoter, to positively regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in citrus
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Li Shaojia , Shi Yanna , Lv Shouzheng , Zhu Changqing , Xu Changjie , Zhang Bo , Allan Andrew C. , Grierson Donald , Chen Kunsong
Published: June 2024

Anthocyanins are natural pigments and dietary antioxidants that play multiple biological roles in plants and are important in animal and human nutrition. Low temperature (LT) promotes anthocyanin biosynthesis in many species including blood orange. A retrotransposon in the promoter of Ruby1, which encodes an R2R3 MYB transcription factor, controls cold‐induced anthocyanin accumulation in blood orange flesh. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we characterized two LT‐induced ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTORS (CsERF054 and CsERF061). Both CsERF054 and CsERF061 can activate the expression of CsRuby1 by directly binding to a DRE/CRT cis‐element within the retrotransposon in the promoter of CsRuby1, thereby positively regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis. Further investigation indicated that CsERF061 also forms a protein complex with CsRuby1 to co‐activate the expression of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes, providing a dual mechanism for the upregulation of the anthocyanin pathway. These results provide insights into how LT mediates anthocyanin biosynthesis and increase the understanding of the regulatory network of anthocyanin biosynthesis in blood orange.
Two members of a Nodule‐specific Cysteine‐Rich (NCR) peptide gene cluster are required for differentiation of rhizobia in Medicago truncatula nodules
Authors: Saifi Farheen , Biró János Barnabás , Horváth Beatrix , Vizler Csaba , Laczi Krisztián , Rákhely Gábor , Kovács Szilárd , Kang Mingming , Li Dengyao , Chen Yuhui , Chen Rujin , Domonkos Ágota , Kaló Péter
Published: June 2024

Legumes have evolved a nitrogen‐fixing symbiotic interaction with rhizobia, and this association helps them to cope with the limited nitrogen conditions in soil. The compatible interaction between the host plant and rhizobia leads to the formation of root nodules, wherein internalization and transition of rhizobia into their symbiotic form, termed bacteroids, occur. Rhizobia in the nodules of the Inverted Repeat‐Lacking Clade legumes, including Medicago truncatula, undergo terminal differentiation, resulting in elongated and endoreduplicated bacteroids. This transition of endocytosed rhizobia is mediated by a large gene family of host‐produced nodule‐specific cysteine‐rich (NCR) peptides in M. truncatula. Few NCRs have been recently found to be essential for complete differentiation and persistence of bacteroids. Here, we show that a M. truncatula symbiotic mutant FN9285, defective in the complete transition of rhizobia, is deficient in a cluster of NCR genes. More specifically, we show that the loss of the duplicated genes NCR086 and NCR314 in the A17 genotype, found in a single copy in Medicago littoralis R108, is responsible for the ineffective symbiotic phenotype of FN9285. The NCR086 and NCR314 gene pair encodes the same mature peptide but their transcriptional activity varies considerably. Nevertheless, both genes can restore the effective symbiosis in FN9285 indicating that their complementation ability does not depend on the strength of their expression activity. The identification of the NCR086/NCR314 peptide, essential for complete bacteroid differentiation, has extended the list of peptides, from a gene family of several hundred members, that are essential for effective nitrogen‐fixing symbiosis in M. truncatula.
Genetic diversity in a Baikal species complex Eulimnogammarus verrucosus (Amphipoda: Gammaroidea) in the Angara River, the only outflow of Lake Baikal
Authors: Saranchina Alexandra , Mutin Andrei , Govorukhina Ekaterina , Rzhechitskiy Yaroslav , Gurkov Anton , Timofeyev Maxim , Drozdova Polina
Published: June 2024

Baikal amphipods are one of the most unique freshwater species flocks of over 350 morphological species and subspecies playing multiple ecological roles in this ancient lake. However, molecular phylogeny studies accumulate evidence that this number is underestimated. Previously, we showed that an abundant littoral species Eulimnogammarus verrucosus comprised at least three genetic lineages: southern (S), western (W), and eastern (E), inhabiting corresponding parts of Baikal shore. The Angara River is the only outflow of the lake and is inhabited by amphipods originating from Baikal, which were previously analysed only morphologically. The river has parts with strong current or closed bays as opposed to sea‐like conditions of Lake Baikal, which raises the question of which species were able to adapt here. Here we studied the phylogeny of E. verrucosus from the Angara River, which could be reached by two lineages, S and W. We analysed 17 sites from 0.6 to 650 km from the outflow. Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 18S rRNA analysis showed that the sites closest to Baikal were inhabited by the S and W lineages sympatrically. The other sites were inhabited by the S lineage at both banks and also by the novel A (Angara) lineage. The A lineage was the first to split up from the last common ancestor of all E. verrucosus. Our data confirm the importance of considering cryptic diversity in ecological monitoring, and in order to simplify the identification of the genetic lineage, we developed a web‐app speCOIdent.
Effect of high‐intensity interval training on cardiometabolic component risks in persons with paraplegia: Results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Farrow Matthew , Maher Jennifer , Deere Rachel , Spellanzon Bruno , Williams Sean , Thompson Dylan , Bilzon James L. J.
Published: June 2024

The aim of this work is to determine the effect of upper‐body high intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiometabolic risks in individuals with chronic paraplegia. Twenty‐seven individuals (14 females, 13 males, mean ± SD age: 46 ± 9 years) with chronic paraplegia (spinal cord injury between T2 and L5 >1‐year post‐injury) took part in a randomized controlled trial and were included in the final analysis. Participants in the HIIT group (n = 18) performed ∼30 min of arm crank exercise (60 s intervals at 80%–90% peak heart rate) four times per week, for 6 weeks. Participants in the control (CON) group (n = 9) were asked to maintain their habitual diet and physical activity patterns over the study period. Outcome measures were taken at baseline and follow‐up. The primary outcome measures were fasting insulin, peak power output (PPO) and peak aerobic capacity (). Secondary outcome measures included body composition, postprandial glycaemic control, fasting blood lipids, inflammatory biomarkers and resting blood pressure. Differences between groups were assessed by ANCOVA, using baseline values as a covariate. PPO was higher in the HIIT (101 W, 97–106) compared to the CON (90 W, 83–96) group at follow‐up (P = 0.006). There were no differences in fasting insulin (P = 0.415) or relative (P = 0.417). Postprandial Matsuda insulin sensitivity index (ISIMatsuda) was higher in the HIIT (5.42, 4.69–6.15) compared to the CON (3.75, 2.46–5.04) group at follow‐up (P = 0.036). Six weeks of upper‐body HIIT increased PPO and ISIMatsuda, with no other beneficial effect on cardiometabolic component risks in persons with chronic paraplegia.

Highlights

What is the central question of this study?

What is the effect of upper‐body high intensity interval training (HIIT) on cardiometabolic component risks in individuals with chronic paraplegia?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Six weeks of upper‐body HIIT increased PPO and improved insulin sensitivity, but had no beneficial effect on other cardiometabolic component risks in persons with chronic paraplegia. The large effect size observed for insulin sensitivity may be important in terms of reducing the risk of type‐2 diabetes in this population.
Investigation on the Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics in a Multi-Pass Channel Using Magnetic Resonance Velocimetry and Transient Thermochromic Liquid Crystal
Authors: Duan Jingtian , Zhang Ke , Wang Zirui , Lu Ruishan , Lei Jiang , Wu Junmei
Published: June 2024

The three-dimensional flow field in multi-pass channels with and without ribs was measured by magnetic resonance velocimetry (MRV), while heat transfer performance on the endwall of channels in the same geometry was investigated using transient thermochromic liquid crystal (TLC) technique. The evolution of comprehensive three-dimensional flow field and their correlation with local heat transfer enhancement on end wall of multi-pass channels with and without ribs were revealed as a whole picture. Results show that the flow characteristics in the right-angle bend as well as the second pass are dramatically different for the smooth and ribbed channels, resulting in totally different features of heat transfer distribution on the end wall in those two channels. For the smooth channel, strong dean vortices form around the bend region near the outer wall where heat transfer is enhanced substantially. For the ribbed channel, no dean vortex but complex three-dimensional flow presents around bends. Heat transfer downstream of ribs close to the reattachment regions is strengthened noticeably. Comparison between velocity and heat transfer results suggest that one of the principle mechanisms driving heat transfer enhancement is both endwall directed velocity for smooth and ribbed channels, even though they are induced by different flow structures.
A new species of the genus Mullederia (Acari: Stigmaeidae) from China, including a key to world species of the genus
Authors: He Hudie , Yi Tian-ci , Jin Dao-chao
Published: June 2024

The genus Mullederia (Acariformes: Stigmaeidae) are free-living predatory mites with six species known in the world. In this paper, we describe and illustrate a new species, Mullederia hainanensis sp. nov., from deciduous broad-leaved plants and evergreen broad-leaved plants in Hainan Province, China. Moreover, an identification key is provided for the known species of this genus.
Effects of Phenylcapsaicin on Intraocular and Ocular Perfusion Pressure During a 30-Min Cycling Task: A Placebo-Controlled, Triple-Blind, Balanced Crossover Study
Authors: Lara Vázquez Paula M. , Morenas-Aguilar María Dolores , Chacón Ventura Sara , Jiménez-Martínez Pablo , Alix-Fages Carlos , García Ramos Amador , Vera Jesús , Redondo Beatriz
Published: June 2024

The main objective of this placebo-controlled, triple-blind, balanced crossover study was to assess the acute effects of phenylcapsaicin (PC) intake (2.5 mg) on intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), and heart rate (HR) during a 30-min cycling task performed at 15% of the individual maximal power. Twenty-two healthy young adults performed the cycling task 45 min after ingesting PC or placebo. IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer before exercise, during cycling (every 6 min), and after 5 and 10 min of recovery. OPP was assessed before and after exercise. HR was monitored throughout the cycling task. We found an acute increase of IOP levels related to PC consumption while cycling (mean difference = 1.91 ± 2.24 mmHg; p = .007, ), whereas no differences were observed for OPP levels between the PC and placebo conditions (mean difference = 1.33 ± 8.70 mmHg; p = .608). Mean HR values were higher after PC in comparison with placebo intake (mean difference = 3.11 ± 15.87 bpm, p = .019, ), whereas maximum HR did not differ between both experimental conditions (p = .199). These findings suggest that PC intake before exercise should be avoided when reducing IOP levels is desired (e.g., glaucoma patients or those at risk). Future studies should determine the effects of different ergogenic aids on IOP and OPP levels with other exercise configurations and in the long term.
Two novel
Enterobacter
species,
Enterobacter chinensis
sp. nov. and
Enterobacter rongchengensis
sp. nov., recovered from clinical samples carrying multiple virulence factors
Authors: He Yanling , Xiao Yuling , Feng Yu , Wu Shikai , Wei Li , Zong Zhiyong
Published: June 2024

Two
Enterobacter
strains 170198
T
and 170250
T
were isolated from clinical blood samples from distinct patients in a hospital in Chengdu, China, in 2022. These isolates were subjected to whole-genome sequencing. A phylogenomic tree based on 2,096 concatenated core genes showed that the two strains were clustered within the genus
Enterobacter
. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and
in silico
DNA–DNA hybridization (
is
DDH) values between each of the two strains and type strains of all currently known
Enterobacter
species were determined. The two strains belonged to two novel species as the highest ANI and
is
DDH values with type strains of all currently known
Enterobacter
species below the cutoff for species demarcation (96% for ANI and 70% for
is
DDH). Then the physiological and biochemical studies demonstrated that biochemical features and the profile of whole fatty acids of strains 170198
T
and 170250
T
were largely consistent with those known
Enterobacter
species. Nevertheless, the two novel species can be differentiated from all other
Enterobacter
species by certain biochemical characteristics. In conclusion, 170198
T
and 170250
T
represent two novel species of the genus
Enterobacter
, for which we propose
Enterobacter chinensis
sp. nov. and
Enterobacter rongchengensis
sp. nov., as the species names. The type strains of
Enterobacter chinensis
sp. nov., and
Enterobacter rongchengensis
sp. nov. are 170198
T
(=GDMCC 1.3549
T
=JCM 35826
T
) and 170250
T
(=GDMCC 1.3670
T
=JCM 36189
T
), respectively. The two novel species have clinical significance with the ability to cause bloodstream infections.

IMPORTANCE

Enterobacter
is a group of bacteria comprising several common opportunistic pathogens and has a complicated taxonomy. Here, we reported two novel
Enterobacter
species. We demonstrated that the two novel species can be differentiated from other
Enterobacter
species by certain phenotypic characteristics and therefore provide information for designing tests for identification. We also showed that strains of the two novel species are able to cause human bloodstream infections and carry multiple virulence factors and therefore are of clinical significance. We highlight that the virulence of
Enterobacter
is less studied and warrants further exploration. We believe that the findings here are valuable for enhancing the appreciation toward
Enterobacter
, an important pathogen.
Mycobacterium
dormancy and antibiotic tolerance within the retinal pigment epithelium of ocular tuberculosis
Authors: Liu Rachel , Dang Joshua N. , Lee Rhoeun , Lee Jae Jin , Kesavamoorthy Niranjana , Ameri Hossein , Rao Narsing , Eoh Hyungjin
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of death among infectious diseases worldwide due to latent TB infection, which is the critical step for the successful pathogenic cycle. In this stage
, Mycobacterium tuberculosis
resides inside the host in a dormant and antibiotic-tolerant state. Latent TB infection can also lead to multisystemic diseases because
M. tuberculosis
invades virtually all organs, including ocular tissues. Ocular tuberculosis (OTB) occurs when the dormant bacilli within the ocular tissues reactivate, originally seeded by hematogenous spread from pulmonary TB. Histological evidence suggests that retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells play a central role in immune privilege and in protection from antibiotic effects, making them an anatomical niche for invading
M. tuberculosis
. RPE cells exhibit high tolerance to environmental redox stresses, allowing phagocytosed
M. tuberculosis
bacilli to maintain viability in a dormant state. However, the microbiological and metabolic mechanisms determining the interaction between the RPE intracellular environment and phagocytosed
M. tuberculosis
are largely unknown. Here, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry metabolomics were used to illuminate the metabolic state within RPE cells reprogrammed to harbor dormant
M. tuberculosis
bacilli and enhance antibiotic tolerance. Timely and accurate diagnosis as well as efficient chemotherapies are crucial in preventing the poor visual outcomes of OTB patients. Unfortunately, the efficacy of current methods is highly limited. Thus, the results will lead to propose a novel therapeutic option to synthetically kill the dormant
M. tuberculosis
inside the RPE cells by modulating the phenotypic state of
M. tuberculosis
and laying the foundation for a new, innovative regimen for treating OTB.

IMPORTANCE

Understanding the metabolic environment within the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells altered by infection with
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and mycobacterial dormancy is crucial to identify new therapeutic methods to cure ocular tuberculosis. The present study showed that RPE cellular metabolism is altered to foster intracellular
M. tuberculosis
to enter into the dormant and drug-tolerant state, thereby blunting the efficacy of anti-tuberculosis chemotherapy. RPE cells serve as an anatomical niche as the cells protect invading bacilli from antibiotic treatment. LC-MS metabolomics of RPE cells after co-treatment with H
2
O
2
and
M. tuberculosis
infection showed that the intracellular environment within RPE cells is enriched with a greater level of oxidative stress. The antibiotic tolerance of intracellular
M. tuberculosis
within RPE cells can be restored by a metabolic manipulation strategy such as co-treatment of antibiotic with the most downstream glycolysis metabolite, phosphoenolpyruvate.
Morphological and pathogenic investigation of the emerging fungal threat
Emergomyces africanus
Authors: Albergoni Elaine C. , Oliveira Haroldo C. , Honorato Leandro , Valdez Alessandro F. , Sena Bianca G. , Castelli Rafael F. , Rodrigues Ana Julia Curioni , Marcon Bruna H. , Robert Anny W. , Nimrichter Leonardo , Rodrigues Marcio L.
Published: June 2024

Emergomyces africanus
is a highly fatal fungal pathogen affecting individuals with advanced HIV disease. Molecular patterns and ultrastructural aspects of
E. africanus
are unknown, and pathogenic models have not been investigated in detail. Since the cell wall of fungi is a determinant for interaction with the host and antifungal development, we characterized the ultrastructural aspects of
E. africanus
and the general properties of cell wall components under different conditions of growth
in vitro
and
in vivo
. We also tested the pathogenic potential of
E. africanus
in a
Galleria mellonella
model of infection. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the common intracellular, ultrastructural features of fungi in association with a thick cell wall. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a smooth cell surface, with no apparent decorative structures. Yeast cultures of
E. africanus
showed the distribution of chitin, chitooligomers, and mannoproteins commonly observed in fungi. However, in mixed microenvironments containing yeast and filamenting forms of
E. africanus
, the detection of chitooligomers was increased in comparison with isolated yeast cells, while the detection of these components in filamenting forms was markedly reduced. These observations were suggestive of the ability of
E. africanus
to change its cell wall composition in response to different microenvironments. Although
E. africanus
was unable to kill
G. mellonella
, this infection model allowed us to isolate infected hemocytes for further analysis of mannoproteins, chitin, and chitooligomers. Once again, the detection of
E. africanus
chitooligomers was markedly increased. These results reveal previously unknown ultrastructural features of
E. africanus
and suggest a high plasticity in the cell wall of this lethal pathogen.

IMPORTANCE

The epidemiology of fungal infections is very dynamic, and novel health emergencies are hard to predict. New fungal pathogens have been continuously emerging for the last few decades, and
Emergomyces africanus
is one of these threats to human health. This complex scenario points to the need for generating knowledge about emerging pathogens so that new therapeutic strategies can be designed. In this study, we characterized the general cellular and pathogenic properties of the emerging fungal pathogen
E. africanus
. Our results reveal that
E. africanus
manifests some of the typical properties of fungal cells but also exhibits some unique characteristics that might be helpful for the future development of therapeutic strategies.
Supplemental Material: Detrital zircon U-Pb ages and provenance of Paleogene paleochannel strata, Sierra Nevada and western Nevada: Implications for paleotopographic evolution
Authors: Tye Alexander , Niemi Nathan A.
Published: June 2024

Table S1: Compiled igneous geochronology data from NAVDAT (Farmer et al., 2009) encompassing all available single-mineral U-Pb, Ar-Ar, and K-Ar ages. Table S2: Compiled published detrital zircon U-Pb age data from Paleogene sedimentary deposits of the Sierra Nevada (Cassel et al., 2012; Cecil et al., 2010). 
Primary achalasia diagnosed during pregnancy: rare cause of nausea and vomiting
Authors: Mei Jenny Y , Mendoza Dorian , Gutierrez Monica , Rao Rashmi
Published: June 2024

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are very common; however, when persistent symptoms lead to severe malnutrition, other conditions should be considered. We present a patient with severe postprandial nausea and vomiting resulting in 120 lb weight loss. She was treated for presumed hyperemesis gravidarum but diagnosed with achalasia type 1 upon further work-up. The pregnancy was further complicated by fetal growth restriction, shortened cervix and preterm premature rupture of membranes, and resulted in delivery at 26 weeks of gestation. Postpartum, she underwent a peroral endoscopicmyotomyprocedure and has returned to normal body mass index.

The differential for nausea/vomiting is broad, and major medical conditions can manifest for the first time during pregnancy. Severe malnutrition adversely affects maternal and fetal health. Further work-up should be pursued when symptoms cannot otherwise be explained.
A randomized, placebo-controlled study of chitosan gel for the treatment of chronic diabetic foot ulcers (the CHITOWOUND study)
Authors: Slivnik Matevž , Navodnik Preložnik Maja , Fir Mojca , Jazbar Janja , Čebron Lipovec Nanča , Locatelli Igor , Liette Lauzon Hélène , Urbančič Rovan Vilma
Published: June 2024

Introduction

To assess the efficacy of a chitosan-based gel (ChitoCare) for the treatment of non-healing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

Research design and methods

Forty-two patients with chronic DFUs were randomized to the ChitoCare or placebo gel for a 10-week treatment period and 4-week follow-up. The primary study end point was the rate of complete wound closure at week 10, presented as relative rate.

Results

Thirty patients completed the 10-week treatment and 28 completed the 4-week follow-up. The ChitoCare arm achieved 16.7% complete wound closure at week 10 vs 4.2% in the placebo arm (p=0.297), 92.0% vs 37.0% median relative reduction in wound surface area from baseline at week 10 (p=0.008), and 4.62-fold higher likelihood of achieving 75% wound closure at week 10 (p=0.012). Based on the results of the Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool, the wound state at week 10 and the relative improvement from the baseline were significantly better (median 20 vs 24 points, p=0.018, and median 29.8% vs 3.6%, p=0.010, respectively).

Conclusions

ChitoCare gel increased the rate of the DFU healing process. Several secondary end points significantly favored ChitoCare gel.

Trial registration number

NCT04178525.