bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the effectiveness of irrigation methods and fertilization strategies for alfalfa: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Wanlu , Liu Lulu , Gao Jiangbo , Wu Shaohong , Liu Yanhua
Published: June 2023

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) plays an important role in livestock production in most regions of the world, but the quantity and quality of alfalfa have been critically affected by drought events in recent years. Thus, quantifying the efficacy of widely used strategies, irrigation methods and fertilization that are aimed at improving drought resistance in alfalfa is a worthy topic that has been addressed in a variety of ways using both field observations and simulation models. Although such strategies play a critical role in climate change adaptation, the global patterns of these strategies in a changing world remain elusive due to regional differences, such as drought features, strategy design and environmental conditions. Thus, by using effect size and statistical analyses, we synthesized three variables, namely, alfalfa yield, water use efficiency (WUE) and crude protein (CP), to examine the efficacy of irrigation methods and fertilization in drought areas based on peer‐reviewed papers from 1990 to 2022. Our results showed that increasing drought stress reduces the alfalfa yield (−34.4%) but can increase the WUE (+13.7%). Both yield and WUE showed a negative relationship with the water deficit, but this phenomenon can be improved by using appropriate irrigation. The yield losses of alfalfa can be offset by implementing a fertilization strategy (+22%) under drought stress, especially for phosphate fertilizer. Overall, our results provide some evidence for the climate change adaptation of alfalfa under drought stress and indicate that fertilization is a more effective adaptation to improve alfalfa drought resistance (both yield and WUE, and yield and CP) than the irrigation method, which shows better performance in improving alfalfa WUE. Our synthesis of the effectiveness of irrigation methods and fertilization on alfalfa drought resistance can be used to develop scientific strategies for climate change adaptation for alfalfa and agriculture under climate change.
On the flash sintering behavior of Li:ZnO—Evidence of electrode asymmetry driven by electrochemical reactions
Authors: Parameswaran Anand Mohan , Amal Kaitheri Nanda Kumar
Published: June 2023

The synthesis, subsequent flash sintering (FS) characteristics and microstructures of pure and Li‐incorporated ZnO powders are reported. At low concentrations, Li is a substitutional occupant in ZnO but becomes an amphoteric dopant (substitutional and interstitial occupant) at higher concentrations inferred from a contraction reversal of the unit cell volume. Increasing Li reduces the average flash temperature of ZnO modestly by 15°C, and a doubling of the linear shrinkage. A discernible color smear (yellow–white–dark) stretching from the anode to cathode imputable to strong electromigration is also observed. Microanalyses of the electrode regions establish clear evidence of electrochemical (EC) lithiation into ZnO and the formation of Li–Zn compounds not observed in conventional sintering (CS). Interestingly, in contrast to CS, the addition of Li enhances coarsening during FS, suggestive of a dissolution–reprecipitation process concurrent with the EC lithiation process. Evidence for considerable (local) yet tangible temperature, chemical and microstructural asymmetry among electrodes driven by EC reactions is presented. Probable mechanisms, leading to these observations, are discussed.
Effect of BN content on the structural, mechanical, and dielectric properties of PDCs‐SiCN(BN) composite ceramics
Authors: Yan Yuangao , Fei Xuan , Huang Liuying , Yu Yuxi , Wen Yichen , Zhao Gang
Published: June 2023

Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) with low dielectric loss and high temperature resistance opens up new opportunities for the preparation of polymer‐derived SiCN ceramics (PDCs‐SiCN ceramics) with excellent mechanical and dielectric properties. BN‐containing polymer‐derived SiCN composite ceramics (PDCs‐SiCN(BN) composite ceramics) with different BN content were prepared via a pyrolysis process of ball‐milling‐blended Polyvinylsilazane/boron nitride (PVSZ/BN) precursors. BN is stably embedded in the SiCN tissue and tightly bound with it. The appropriate content of BN greatly improves the mechanical properties of PDCs‐SiCN ceramics, as BN reduces the number of pores and prevents crack expansion. Additionally, BN is also beneficial in lowering the dielectric loss of PDCs‐SiCN ceramics because of the weakened polarization relaxation behavior. PDCs‐SiCN (BN) composite ceramics have optimal mechanical and dielectric properties when the BN content is 1 wt%. The flexural strength, flexural modulus and compression strength of PDCs‐SiCN(BN) composite ceramics with 1 wt% BN doping content were 189.37 MPa, 46.38 GPa, and 399.02 MPa, respectively. Its average dielectric loss (tanδε) at 12.4‐18 GHz is 0.0049.
Systematic review of exosome treatment in hair restoration: Preliminary evidence, safety, and future directions
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Wang Tong , Rapaport Jeffrey A.
Published: June 2023

Background

Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles with potential roles in modulating the hair growth cycle and are an emerging therapy for patients with alopecia. In recent years, researchers have made significant progress in deciphering the network of cellular interactions and signaling pathways mediated by the transfer of exosomes. This has opened the door to a wide range of potential therapeutic applications with an increasing focus on its application in precision medicine.

Aim

To evaluate current published evidence, both preclinical and clinical, on the use of exosomes for hair restoration.

Methods

In January 2023, a systematic search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Records were identified, screened, and assessed for eligibility as per the PRISMA guideline.

Results

We identified 16 studies (15 preclinical and 1 clinical) showing varying degrees of efficacy using exosomes derived from sources including adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and dermal papilla cells (DPCs). Applications of exosomes isolated from ADSCs (ADSC‐Exo) and DPCs have shown early promising results in preclinical studies corroborated by results obtained from different model systems. Topical ADSC‐Exo has been tried successfully in 39 androgenetic alopecia patients demonstrating significant increases in hair density and thickness. No significant adverse reactions associated with exosome treatment have been reported thus far.

Conclusions

Although current clinical evidence supporting the use of exosome treatment is limited, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting its therapeutic potential. Further studies are warranted to define its mechanism of action, optimize its delivery and efficacy, and to address important safety concerns.
Acupuncture techniques and acupoints used in individuals under chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment of cancer: A systematic review
Authors: de Sousa Tatiane Regina , Mattos Suzana , Marcon Giovanna , Furtado Thayná , Duarte da silva Morgana
Published: June 2023

Aims and Objectives

To describe the main acupuncture techniques and parameters that have been used in the most varied symptoms of different types of cancer.

Background

Clinical evidence about the potential effectiveness of acupuncture and related therapies to control signs and symptoms associated with cancer or its treatment has been in several studies. Currently, there is already evidence of the use of acupuncture for the treatment of nausea and vomiting, fatigue, dry mouth, anxiety, depression, insomnia and pain. However, many studies lack firm rights or reproducible guidelines for treatment.

Design

This study performs a systematic review of clinical trials related to the topic, based on the PRISMA protocol. Thus, a search was carried out in the Scopus, Pubmed and Web of Science databases, covering studies since January 2007.

Methods

Structured and organised according to PICO standards, using keywords (“cancer” OR “malignant tumour” OR “chemotherapy” OR “radiotherapy”) AND (“acupuncture” OR “electroacupuncture”) AND (“pain” OR “nausea” OR “vomit” OR “fatigue” OR “xerostomia” OR “insomnia” OR “depression” OR “neuropathy”).

Results

After the selection and evaluation phase, 23 studies were included and analysed.

Conclusion

Based on this analysis, it is concluded that acupuncture is safe and there is evidence of the reduction of gastrointestinal symptoms, chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy, pain, dry mouth, fatigue, insomnia, and improvement of cognitive capacity.

Relevance to clinical practice

Acupuncture treatments could act by minimising the side effects of conventional treatments and reducing symptoms induced by tumours.

No Patient or Public Contribution

The patients had no direct involvement with the study in question.
Linking video chatting, phone calling, text messaging, and social media with peers to adolescent connectedness
Authors: Garrett Shedrick L. , Burnell Kaitlyn , Armstrong‐Carter Emma L. , Prinstein Mitchell J. , Telzer Eva H.
Published: June 2023

For 14 days three times per day (6072 observations), adolescents (N = 207, Mage = 15.45 years) reported their digital (i.e., video chatting, texting, social media, and phone calling) communication with peers and their social connectedness. Controlling for in‐person interactions, adolescents felt more connected in hours when they had communicated with peers by video chatting, texting, or social media, but not phone calling. Girls communicated with peers via text and social media more than boys, and boys talked on the phone more than girls. Boys who talked, texted, or video chatted more on average reported higher connectedness on average, whereas girls did not. As the links with connectedness were only found at the hourly‐ and not the daily level, results highlight that a sense of connectedness from digital media may be fleeting in nature.
Dimensions of food texture: A conceptual discussion
Authors: Rosenthal Andrew , Chen Jianshe
Published: June 2023

Food texture is a collective term for all texture‐related features of a food product. A comprehensive description of food texture is therefore practically challenging due to too many parameters that are associated simultaneously with the food. Using every day, non‐technical (layman's) language, we attempt in this work to rationalize the different dimensions that contribute to the texture of foods, and we explain the rheological reasons behind the concept. For solid foods, three dimensions are identified being the “hard–soft,” “strong–weak,” and “brittle–plastic.” For liquid foods, three further dimensions are suggested, being “elastic–viscous,” “thick–thin,” and “shear thinning–shear thickening.” As these dimensions are bipolar, for foods where any of the dimensions are not relevant, we conceive that dimension takes on a zero value, aligning at the center of the scale.
The Medicago truncatula nodule‐specific cysteine‐rich peptides, NCR343 and NCR‐new35 are required for the maintenance of rhizobia in nitrogen‐fixing nodules
Authors: Horváth Beatrix , Güngör Berivan , Tóth Mónika , Domonkos Ágota , Ayaydin Ferhan , Saifi Farheen , Chen Yuhui , Biró János Barnabás , Bourge Mickael , Szabó Zoltán , Tóth Zoltán , Chen Rujin , Kaló Péter
Published: June 2023

In the nodules of IRLC legumes, including Medicago truncatula, nitrogen‐fixing rhizobia undergo terminal differentiation resulting in elongated and endoreduplicated bacteroids specialized for nitrogen fixation. This irreversible transition of rhizobia is mediated by host produced nodule‐specific cysteine‐rich (NCR) peptides, of which c. 700 are encoded in the M. truncatula genome but only few of them have been proved to be essential for nitrogen fixation.

We carried out the characterization of the nodulation phenotype of three ineffective nitrogen‐fixing M. truncatula mutants using confocal and electron microscopy, monitored the expression of defence and senescence‐related marker genes, and analysed the bacteroid differentiation with flow cytometry. Genetic mapping combined with microarray‐ or transcriptome‐based cloning was used to identify the impaired genes.

Mtsym19 and Mtsym20 mutants are defective in the same peptide NCR‐new35 and the lack of NCR343 is responsible for the ineffective symbiosis of NF‐FN9363. We found that the expression of NCR‐new35 is significantly lower and limited to the transition zone of the nodule compared with other crucial NCRs. The fluorescent protein‐tagged version of NCR343 and NCR‐new35 localized to the symbiotic compartment.

Our discovery added two additional members to the group of NCR genes essential for nitrogen‐fixing symbiosis in M. truncatula.
An inducible CRISPR‐Kill system for temporally controlled cell type‐specific cell ablation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Gehrke Fabienne , Ruiz‐Duarte Paola , Schindele Angelina , Wolf Sebastian , Puchta Holger
Published: June 2023

The application of the CRISPR/Cas system as a biotechnological tool for genome editing has revolutionized plant biology. Recently, the repertoire was expanded by CRISPR‐Kill, enabling CRISPR/Cas‐mediated tissue engineering through genome elimination by tissue‐specific expression.

Using the Cas9 nuclease from Staphylococcus aureus (SaCas9), CRISPR‐Kill relies on the induction of multiple double‐strand breaks (DSBs) in conserved repetitive genome regions, such as the rDNA, causing cell death of the targeted cells. Here, we show that in addition to spatial control by tissue‐specific expression, temporal control of CRISPR‐mediated cell death is feasible in Arabidopsis thaliana.

We established a chemically inducible tissue‐specific CRISPR‐Kill system that allows the simultaneous detection of targeted cells by fluorescence markers. As proof of concept, we were able to eliminate lateral roots and ablate root stem cells. Moreover, using a multi-tissue promoter, we induced targeted cell death at defined time points in different organs at select developmental stages.

Thus, using this system makes it possible to gain new insights into the developmental plasticity of certain cell types. In addition to enabling tissue engineering in plants, our system provides an invaluable tool to study the response of developing plant tissue to cell elimination through positional signaling and cell‐to‐cell communication.
Curcumin relieves arecoline‐induced oral submucous fibrosis via inhibiting the LTBP2/NF‐κB axis
Authors: Zhang Lin , Tan Jin , Liu Yiping , Luo Mang
Published: June 2023

Background

Submucosal fibrosis (OSF) of the oral cavity is a chronic scarring disease. Arecoline (Are) is the driving factor for the occurrence and deterioration of OSF. Curcumin plays a vital anti‐inflammatory role in Are‐induced OSF development. However, its potential pharmacological mechanism needs to be elucidated.

Methods

The relative molecular level was measured via qRT‐PCR or Western blot. MTT assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry detected cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. The correlation between hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and LTBP2 promoter was confirmed through dual‐luciferase reporter assay. ELISA was performed to detect inflammatory cytokines levels.

Results

Curcumin alleviated Are‐induced oral mucosal fibroblast cells fibrosis by reducing oral mucosa fibroblasts viability, promoting cell apoptosis, suppressing cell migration, and down‐regulating the levels of fibrosis markers and inflammatory factors. Curcumin relieved Are‐induced OSF via inhibiting HIF‐1α. Mechanically, HIF‐1α bound to the promoter of LTBP2 to transcriptionally activated LTBP2. LTBP2 knockdown relieved Are‐induced OSF, and curcumin down‐regulated LTBP2 via inhibiting HIF‐1α to relieve Are‐induced OSF. Moreover, curcumin decreased NF‐κB signal associated proteins via inhibiting LTBP2 to relieve Are‐induced OSF.

Conclusion

Curcumin reduced the transcription level of LTBP2 by inhibiting HIF‐1α, thereby inactivating NF‐κB pathway to alleviate Are‐induced OSF.
Using 3D Printing Technology to Manufacture Personalized Bone Cement Placeholder Mold for Bone Defect Repair and Reconstruction with Infection: A Case Report
Authors: Zheng Kai , Yu Xiu‐chun , Xu Ming , Cui Haocheng , Wu Junyi , Hou Zhiwei , Tian Dongmu
Published: June 2023

Background

Limb salvage surgery is the preferred treatment for most malignant bone tumors, but postoperative infection treatment is very challenging. Simultaneously controlling infection and solving bone defects are clinical treatment challenges.

Case Presentation

Here we describe a new technique for treating bone defect infection after bone tumor surgery. An 8‐year‐old patient suffered an incision infection after osteosarcoma resection and bone defect reconstruction. In response, we designed her a personalized, anatomically matched, antibiotic‐loaded, bone cement spacer mold using 3D printing technology. The patient's infection was cured, and limb salvage was successful. In follow‐up, the patient had returned to normal postoperative chemotherapy and was able to walk with the help of a cane. There was no obvious pain in the knee joint. At 3 months after operation, the range of motion of the knee joint was 0°–60°.

Conclusion

The 3D printing spacer mold is an effective solution for treating the infection with large bone defect.
Quality of Life and Depression Status of Caregivers of Patients with Femoral Neck or Intertrochanteric Femoral Fractures during the First Year after Fracture Treatment
Authors: Sukchokpanich Pattamaket , Anusitviwat Chirathit , Jarusriwanna Atthakorn , Kitcharanant Nitchanant , Unnanuntana Aasis
Published: June 2023

Objective

The burden placed on caregivers can negatively affect the functional recovery of patients with hip fractures. It is therefore essential to consider caregivers' well‐being during the hip fracture care pathway. The aim of this study is to evaluate caregivers' quality of life and depression status during the first year after hip fracture treatment.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled the primary caregivers of patients with hip fractures admitted to the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital (Bangkok, Thailand) between April 2019 and January 2020. The quality of life of each caregiver was evaluated using the 36‐Item Short Form Survey (SF‐36), EuroQol 5‐Dimensions 5‐Levels (EQ‐5D‐5L), and EuroQol Visual Analog Scale (EQ‐VAS). Their depression statuses were assessed using the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD). The outcome measures were collected during admission as baseline data and 3, 6 months, and 1 year after hip fracture treatment. The repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare all outcome measures from baseline to each indicated time point.

Results

Fifty caregivers were included in the final analysis. The mean SF‐36 physical and mental component summary scores decreased significantly from 56.6 to 54.9 (p = 0.012) and 52.7 to 50.4 (p = 0.043), respectively, during the first 3 months after treatment. The physical and mental component summary scores returned to baseline values 12 and 6 months posttreatment, respectively. Although the mean EQ‐5D‐5L and EQ‐VAS scores significantly declined at 3 months, they returned to baseline values within 12 months. As for HRSD, 6%, 56%, 36%, and 6% of the caregivers reported mild depression symptoms at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months posttreatment, respectively.

Conclusions

The quality of life and depression status of hip fracture patients' caregivers worsen substantially in the first 3 months and return to baseline 1 year after hip fracture treatment. Specific attention and support should be given to caregivers, particularly during this difficult period. Caregivers should be regarded as “hidden patients” who need to be integrated into the hip fracture treatment pathway.
Implant efficiency and clinical performance of Aveir™ VR and Micra™ VR leadless pacemaker: A multicenter comparative analysis of 67 patients
Authors: Tokavanich Nithi , Machado Christian , Banga Sandeep , Smiles Katelyn , Dhar Anya , Ali Abbas , Ali Mohammed , Qutrio Baloch Zulfiqar , Ip John
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Leadless pacemaker (LP) is a novel pacemaker that has been proven to be effective and safe; however, the majority of LPs in previous reports were the Medtronic Micra™ VR LP. We aim to evaluate the implant efficiency and clinical performance of the Aveir™ VR LP compared to the Micra™ VR LP.

Method

We performed a retrospective analysis in two healthcare systems (Sparrow Hospital and Ascension Health System, Michigan) in patients implanted with LPs between January 1, 2018, and April 1, 2022. The parameters were collected at implantation, 3 months and 6 months.

Results

A total of 67 patients were included in the study. The Micra™ VR group had shorter time in the electrophysiology lab (41 ± 12 vs. 55 ± 11.5 min, p = .008) and shorter fluoroscopic time (6.5 ± 2.2 vs. 11.5 ± 4.5 min, p < .001) compared to the Aveir™ VR group. The Aveir™ VR group had a significantly higher implant pacing threshold compared to the Micra™ VR group (0.74 ± 0.34 mA vs. 0.5 ± 0.18 mA at pulse width 0.4 ms, p < .001), but no difference was found at 3 months and 6 months. There was no significant difference in the R‐wave sensing and impedance and pacing percentage at implantation, 3 months, and 6 months. Complications of the procedure were rare. The mean projected longevity of the Aveir™ VR group was longer than the Micra™ VR group (18.8 ± 4.3 vs. 7.7 ± 0.75 years, p < .001).

Conclusion

Implantation of the Aveir™ VR required longer laboratory and fluoroscopic time, but showed longer longevity at 6 months follow‐up, compare to the Micra™ VR. Complications and lead dislodgement are rare.
Congenital bullous syphilis in a newborn: A novel approach to diagnosis using immunohistochemical staining on a blister roof
Authors: Ekeh Odera , Duffy Robert F. , Feingold Anat , Manders Steven M.
Published: June 2023

We describe a rare presentation of congenital bullous syphilis in a premature neonate born with extensive skin desquamation. The newborn was noted to have diffuse erythema with widespread, superficial skin desquamation in addition to plantar bullae and erosions, and an absence of mucosal involvement. Immunohistochemical syphilis diagnostic staining was performed on a blister roof, highlighting a novel diagnostic approach for congenital bullous syphilis.
Pessimism and procreation
Authors: Pallies Daniel
Published: June 2023

The pessimistic hypothesis is the hypothesis that life is bad for us, in the sense that we are worse off for having come into existence. Suppose this hypothesis turns out to be correct — existence turns out to be more of a burden than a gift. A natural next thought is that we should stop having children. But I contend that this is a mistake; procreation would often be permissible even if the pessimistic hypothesis turned out to be correct. Roughly, this is because we are often in a position to know that future people will approve of having been created, and their approval will not be inappropriate even if they are worse off for having been created. And our respect for the attitudes of future people can permit us to create them.
Introduction to the Forum: Revisiting Torsten Hägerstrand's Diorama, Path and Project
Authors: van Meeteren Michiel , Aalbers Manuel B.
Published: June 2023

In this TESG Forum, we revisit Torsten Hägerstrand's 1982 Diorama, Path and Project, a paper that significantly expanded Hägerstrand's time‐geographical conceptual vocabulary in the international geographical literature. The paper was the crystallization of a process where Hägerstrand tried to bridge regional science ideas with humanistic ones. The ‘diorama’ was introduced to discuss how imaginations emerge from the togetherness of objects and memories in localized space and initially formulated to help geography overcome the disciplinary fragmentation and paradigmatic rows that had splintered geography in the 1970s. ‘Path’ is Hägerstrand's well‐known concept describing people's spatial pattern of activities. Finally, the concept of ‘project’ tried to capture a broader conception of agency that was able to accommodate people's paths as the result of goal‐intended and value‐inspired actions. In this introductory essay, we contextualize the paper in the development of Hägerstrand's work and introduce the separate contributions to the Forum.
Rice potassium transporter OsHAK18 mediates phloem K+ loading and redistribution
Authors: Shen Like , Fan Wenxia , Li Na , Wu Qi , Chen Di , Luan Junxia , Zhang Gangao , Tian Quanxiang , Jing Wen , Zhang Qun , Zhang Wenhua
Published: June 2023

High‐affinity K+ transporters/K+ uptake permeases/K+ transporters (HAK/KUP/KT) are important pathways mediating K+ transport across cell membranes, which function in maintaining K+ homeostasis during plant growth and stress response. An increasing number of studies have shown that HAK/KUP/KT transporters play crucial roles in root K+ uptake and root‐to‐shoot translocation. However, whether HAK/KUP/KT transporters also function in phloem K+ translocation remain unclear. In this study, we revealed that a phloem‐localized rice HAK/KUP/KT transporter, OsHAK18, mediated cell K+ uptake when expressed in yeast, Escherichia coli and Arabidopsis. It was localized at the plasma membrane. Disruption of OsHAK18 rendered rice seedlings insensitive to low‐K+ (LK) stress. After LK stress, some WT leaves showed severe wilting and chlorosis, whereas the corresponding leaves of oshak18 mutant lines (a Tos17 insertion line and two CRISPR lines) remained green and unwilted. Compared with WT, the oshak18 mutants accumulated more K+ in shoots but less K+ in roots after LK stress, leading to a higher shoot/root ratio of K+ per plant. Disruption of OsHAK18 does not affect root K+ uptake and K+ level in xylem sap, but it significantly decreases phloem K+ concentration and inhibits root‐to‐shoot‐to‐root K+ (Rb+) translocation in split‐root assay. These results reveal that OsHAK18 mediates phloem K+ loading and redistribution, whose disruption is in favor of shoot K+ retention under LK stress. Our findings expand the understanding of HAK/KUP/KT transporters' functions and provide a promising strategy for improving rice tolerance to K+ deficiency.
Arabidopsis BBX14 negatively regulates nitrogen starvation‐ and dark‐induced leaf senescence
Authors: Buelbuel Selin , Sakuraba Yasuhito , Sedaghatmehr Mastoureh , Watanabe Mutsumi , Hoefgen Rainer , Balazadeh Salma , Mueller‐Roeber Bernd
Published: June 2023

Senescence is a highly regulated process driven by developmental age and environmental factors. Although leaf senescence is accelerated by nitrogen (N) deficiency, the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we reveal that BBX14, a previously uncharacterized BBX‐type transcription factor in Arabidopsis, is crucial for N starvation‐induced leaf senescence. We find that inhibiting BBX14 by artificial miRNA (amiRNA) accelerates senescence during N starvation and in darkness, while BBX14 overexpression (BBX14‐OX) delays it, identifying BBX14 as a negative regulator of N starvation‐ and dark‐induced senescence. During N starvation, nitrate and amino acids like glutamic acid, glutamine, aspartic acid, and asparagine were highly retained in BBX14‐OX leaves compared to the wild type. Transcriptome analysis showed a large number of senescence‐associated genes (SAGs) to be differentially expressed between BBX14‐OX and wild‐type plants, including ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE3 (EIN3) which regulates N signaling and leaf senescence. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) showed that BBX14 directly regulates EIN3 transcription. Furthermore, we revealed the upstream transcriptional cascade of BBX14. By yeast one‐hybrid screen and ChIP, we found that MYB44, a stress‐responsive MYB transcription factor, directly binds to the promoter of BBX14 and activates its expression. In addition, Phytochrome Interacting Factor 4 (PIF4) binds to the promoter of BBX14 to repress BBX14 transcription. Thus, BBX14 functions as a negative regulator of N starvation‐induced senescence through EIN3 and is directly regulated by PIF4 and MYB44.
Prevalence of antibodies toToxocara canisand its associated risk factors in socio‐economically deprived nomadic communities of Pakistan
Authors: Awais Mian Muhammad , Zahoor Seemab , Akhtar Masood , Anwar Muhammad Irfan , Shirwany Abdul Sammad Ali Khan , Ali Muhammad Amjad , Bhatti Muhammad Sibtain , Razzaq Abdul
Published: June 2023

Toxocariasis is an important zoonotic disease caused byToxocara(T.)caniswith considerably higher prevalence in developing countries. The data on its epidemiology, especially in socioeconomically deprived nomadic communities, are scarce in Pakistan. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of anti‐T. canisantibodies and its associated risk factors in nomadic communities located in and around Multan, Pakistan. A total of 184 sera samples were collected from nomadic communities by simple random sampling technique. The descriptive epidemiological data of participants were collected on well‐designed questionnaires. Prior consent was also obtained from the participants to use the data generated from their samples without showing their identity. All the samples were analysed for the detection of anti‐T. canisantibodies using commercially available Enzyme‐Linked‐Immunosorbent‐Assay (ELISA) kits having 91% sensitivity and 96% specificity (Bordier Affinity Products, Switzerland). The overall seroprevalence of toxocariasis among nomadic communities was 27.7% (51/184). Various factors, including age, known disease history, nutritional status, contact with dogs, practice of hand washing after contact with dogs, use of unwashed vegetables, body mass index, and drug abuse, showed significant correlation (p < 0.05) with toxocariasis in nomadic communities. Conversely, other factors, including gender, marital status, educational status, awareness about zoonotic diseases, source of drinking water, occupation, location, hand washing before taking food, exposure to soil, and hygienic eating behaviour, showed non‐significant correlation (p > 0.05) with seroprevalence of toxocariasis. Results also showed that >50% of seropositive cases were asymptomatic, whereas cough and abdominal pain were recorded in 19.6% and 11.76% of seropositive cases, respectively. Keeping in view, it is suggested to conduct surveys at mass level to rule out the exact disease status at national level and to include nomadic communities in local, national, and regional disease control programs through provision of better healthcare facilities and awareness about the disease.
The Curvature, Collagen Network Structure, and Their Relationship to the Pressure-Induced Strain Response of the Human Lamina Cribrosa in Normal and Glaucoma Eyes
Authors: Czerpak Cameron A. , Ling Yik Tung Tracy , Jefferys Joan L. , Quigley Harry A. , Nguyen Thao D.
Published: June 2023

The lamina cribrosa (LC) is a connective tissue in the optic nerve head (ONH). The objective of this study was to measure the curvature and collagen microstructure of the human LC, compare the effects of glaucoma and glaucoma optic nerve damage, and investigate the relationship between the structure and pressure-induced strain response of the LC in glaucoma eyes. Previously, the posterior scleral cups of 10 normal eyes and 16 diagnosed glaucoma eyes were subjected to inflation testing with second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging of the LC and digital volume correlation (DVC) to calculate the strain field. In this study, we applied a custom microstructural analysis algorithm to the maximum intensity projection of SHG images to measure features of the LC beam and pore network. We also estimated the LC curvatures from the anterior surface of the DVC-correlated LC volume. Results showed that the LC in glaucoma eyes had larger curvatures p≤0.03), a smaller average pore area (p = 0.001), greater beam tortuosity (p < 0.0001), and more isotropic beam structure (p = 0.01) than in normal eyes. The difference measured between glaucoma and normal eyes may indicate remodeling of the LC with glaucoma or baseline differences that contribute to the development of glaucomatous axonal damage.
Impact of Indenter Size and Microrelief Anisotropy on the Tribological Behavior of Human Skin
Authors: Diosa Juan G. , Moreno Ricardo , Chica Edwin L. , Buganza-Tepole Adrian
Published: June 2023

Everyday, we interact with screens, sensors, and many other devices through contact with the skin. Experimental efforts have increased our knowledge of skin tribology but are challenged by the fact that skin has a complex structure, undergoes finite deformations, has nonlinear material response, and has properties that vary with anatomical location, age, sex, and environmental conditions. Computational models are powerful tools to dissect the individual contribution of these variables to the overall frictional response. Here, we present a three-dimensional high-fidelity multilayer skin computational model including a detailed surface topography or skin microrelief. Four variables are explored: local coefficient of friction (COF), indenter size, mechanical properties of the stratum corneum, and displacement direction. The results indicate that the global COF depends nonlinearly on the local COF, implying a role for skin deformation on the friction response. The global COF is also influenced by the ratio of the indenter size to the microrelief features, with larger indenters smoothing out the role of skin topography. Changes in stiffness of the uppermost layer of skin associated with humidity have a substantial effect on both the contact area and the reaction forces, but the overall changes in the COF are small. Finally, for the microrelief tested, the response can be considered isotropic. We anticipate that this model and results will enable the design of materials and devices for a desired interaction against skin.
In Vitro Thrombogenicity Testing of Biomaterials in a Dynamic Flow Loop: Effects of Length and Quantity of Test Samples
Authors: Jamiolkowski Megan A. , Golding Madelyn D. , Malinauskas Richard A. , Lu Qijin
Published: June 2023

The results of in vitro dynamic thrombogenicity testing of biomaterials and medical devices can be significantly impacted by test conditions. To develop and standardize a robust dynamic in vitro thrombogenicity tool, the key test parameters need to be appropriately evaluated and optimized. We used a flow loop test system previously developed in our laboratory to investigate the effects of sample length and the number of samples per test loop on the thrombogenicity results. Porcine blood heparinized to a donor-specific target concentration was recirculated at room temperature through polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing loops containing test materials for 1 h at 200 mL/min. Four test materials (polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), latex, PVC, and silicone) with various thrombotic potentials in two sample lengths (12 and 18 cm) were examined. For the 12-cm long materials, two different test configurations (one and two samples per loop) were compared. Thrombogenicity was assessed through percent thrombus surface coverage, thrombus weight, and platelet count reduction in the blood. The test system was able to effectively differentiate the thrombogenicity profile of the materials (latex > silicone > PVC ≥ PTFE) at all test configurations. Increasing test sample length by 50% did not significantly impact the test results as both 12 and 18 cm sample lengths were shown to equally differentiate thrombotic potentials between the materials. The addition of a second test sample to each loop did not increase the test sensitivity and may produce confounding results, and thus a single test sample per loop is recommended.
Acquisition of field ion microscope image using deflector during atom probe analysis
Authors: Taniguchi Masahiro , Yamauchi Yasuo , Yoshikawa Kenji
Published: June 2023

Atom probe (AP) is an elemental analysis technique that ionizes surface atoms by a strong field formed by a sharp needle-shaped sample and identifies ions in an atom-by-atom manner by the time of flight mass spectrometer. The detection efficiency of AP has been estimated to be extremely high by the correlation to field ion microscopy (FIM) observations, which show the surface morphology change in atomic scale during the field evaporation of the surface layer. The estimation of detection efficiency has been indirectly done by the comparison of AP data and FIM observation. We evaluated the detection efficiency of AP directly from ion data and counting spot change in FIM images by repeating two measurements sequentially in this work. The experimentally obtained ratio between the detected count over disappeared spots was 10/33 ≈ 0.30, which was ca. 1/2 of the optimal value expected from the opening area ratio of the microchannel plate (∼0.60).
Stochastic motion and transcriptional dynamics of pairs of distal DNA loci on a compacted chromosome
Authors: Brückner David B. , Chen Hongtao , Barinov Lev , Zoller Benjamin , Gregor Thomas
Published: June 2023

Chromosomes in the eukaryotic nucleus are highly compacted. However, for many functional processes, including transcription initiation, the pairwise motion of distal chromosomal elements such as enhancers and promoters is essential and necessitates dynamic fluidity. Here, we used a live-imaging assay to simultaneously measure the positions of pairs of enhancers and promoters and their transcriptional output while systematically varying the genomic separation between these two DNA loci. Our analysis reveals the coexistence of a compact globular organization and fast subdiffusive dynamics. These combined features cause an anomalous scaling of polymer relaxation times with genomic separation leading to long-ranged correlations. Thus, encounter times of DNA loci are much less dependent on genomic distance than predicted by existing polymer models, with potential consequences for eukaryotic gene expression.
An Integrated Paper Microfluidic Device Based on Isothermal Amplification for Simple Sample-to-Answer Detection of
Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Chen Yunxuan , Hu Yaxi , Lu Xiaonan
Published: June 2023

The global health and economic burden of
Campylobacter
prompts the development of novel detection techniques that can be implemented in resource-limited and on-site settings. This study described point-of-need identification of
C. jejuni
using a hybrid paper/polymer-based microfluidic device that is easy to operate.
Genetic Engineering of Resident Bacteria in the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Arnold Jack , Glazier Joshua , Mimee Mark
Published: June 2023

Techniques by which to genetically manipulate members of the microbiota enable both the evaluation of host-microbe interactions and an avenue by which to monitor and modulate human physiology. Genetic engineering applications have traditionally focused on model gut residents, such as
Escherichia coli
and lactic acid bacteria.
Coreceptor AXL Facilitates African Swine Fever Virus Entry via Apoptotic Mimicry
Authors: Chen Xin , Zheng Jun , Li Tingting , Liu Chuanxia , Bao Miaofei , Wang Xiao , Li Xuewen , Li Jiangnan , Huang Li , Zhang Zhaoxia , Weng Changjiang
Published: June 2023

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious infectious disease caused by the ASF virus (ASFV), with a mortality rate of up to 100%. ASFV has caused huge economic losses to pig farming worldwide.
Sugarcane mosaic virus reduced bacterial diversity and network complexity in the maize root endosphere
Authors: Liu Wenbo , Cui Xin , Wang Xinhai , Shen Cheng , Ji Lingfei , Zhang Min , Wong Ming Hung , Zhang Jin , Shan Shengdao
Published: June 2023

Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) causes mosaic disease in crops such as maize and sugarcane by its vector—an aphid—and is transmitted top-down into the root system. However, understanding of the effects of the aphid-borne virus on root-associated microbes after plant invasion remains limited. The current project investigated maize root-associated (rhizosphere and endosphere) bacterial communities, potential interspecies interaction, and assembly processes in response to SCMV invasion based on 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. SCMV was detected in the roots 9 days after inoculation, and leaf mosaic and chlorosis appeared. The SCMV invasion markedly reduced the α-diversity of endosphere bacteria compared with uninoculated controls (Mock). The connectivity and complexity of the bacterial co-occurrence network in the root endosphere decreased after SCMV invasion, implying that the plant virus may alter root endophyte-microbial interactions. Moreover, a signature that deviates more from stochastic processes was observed in virus-infected plants. Unexpectedly, the rhizosphere bacterial communities were rarely affected by the viral invasion. This study lays the foundation for elucidating the fate of the microbial component of the plant holobiont following aphid-borne virus exposure.

IMPORTANCE

Biotic (e.g., soil-borne viruses) stress can alter root-associated bacterial communities, essential in maintaining host plant growth and health. However, the regulation of root-associated microorganisms by plant viruses from shoots is still largely unknown. Our results show that plant virus invasion leads to reduced and simpler inter-microbial communication in the maize endosphere. In addition, stochastic processes act on bacterial community assembly in both rhizosphere and endosphere, and bacterial communities in virus-invaded plant endosphere tend to shift toward deterministic processes. Our study highlights the negative effects of plant viruses on root endophytes from the microbial ecology perspective, which may be microbially mediated mechanisms of plant diseases.
A Rapid Nucleic Acid Visualization Assay for Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis Virus That Targets the TK Gene
Authors: Wang Ruijia , Huang Pei , Huang Zanheng , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Meihui , Jin Kaikai , Lu Jiaying , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Hualei , Zhang Haili
Published: June 2023

IBRV causes different degrees of clinical symptoms in cattle and poses a great threat to the cattle industry. The infection is persistent and latent, and the elimination of IBRV in infected herds is difficult.
Supplemental Material: East Asian summer monsoon variations across the Miocene-Pliocene boundary recorded by sediments from the Guide Basin, northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Xingwan , Nie Junsheng , et al.
Published: June 2023

Supplementary text and figures.
Menopausal hormone therapy and dementia: nationwide, nested case-control study
Authors: Pourhadi Nelsan , Mørch Lina S , Holm Ellen A , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Meaidi Amani
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To assess the association between use of menopausal hormone therapy and development of dementia according to type of hormone treatment, duration of use, and age at usage.

Design

Nationwide, nested case-control study.

Setting

Denmark through national registries.

Participants

5589 incident cases of dementia and 55 890 age matched controls were identified between 2000 and 2018 from a population of all Danish women aged 50-60 years in 2000 with no history of dementia or contraindications for use of menopausal hormone therapy.

Main outcome measures

Adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals for all cause dementia defined by a first time diagnosis or first time use of dementia specific medication.

Results

Compared with people who had never used treatment, people who had received oestrogen-progestin therapy had an increased rate of all cause dementia (hazard ratio 1.24 (95% confidence interval 1.17 to 1.33)). Increasing durations of use yielded higher hazard ratios, ranging from 1.21 (1.09 to 1.35) for one year or less of use to 1.74 (1.45 to 2.10) for more than 12 years of use. Oestrogen-progestin therapy was positively associated with development of dementia for both continuous (1.31 (1.18 to 1.46)) and cyclic (1.24 (1.13 to 1.35)) regimens. Associations persisted in women who received treatment at the age 55 years or younger (1.24 (1.11 to 1.40)). Findings persisted when restricted to late onset dementia (1.21 (1.12 to 1.30)) and Alzheimer’s disease (1.22 (1.07 to 1.39)).

Conclusions

Menopausal hormone therapy was positively associated with development of all cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, even in women who received treatment at the age of 55 years or younger. The increased rate of dementia was similar between continuous and cyclic treatment. Further studies are warranted to determine whether these findings represent an actual effect of menopausal hormone therapy on dementia risk, or whether they reflect an underlying predisposition in women in need of these treatments.
Low-dose intravenous immunoglobulin for children with newly diagnosed immune thrombocytopenia: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ren Xiangge , Zhang Miaomiao , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhao Peidong , Zhai Wensheng
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is a first-line treatment for children with newly diagnosed immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). However, the cost of IVIg is high. Higher doses of IVIg are associated with a more insupportable financial burden to paediatric patients’ families and may produce more adverse reactions. Whether low-dose IVIg can quickly stop bleeding and induce a durable response in treating children with newly diagnosed ITP is not yet established.

Methods and analysis

We will extensively search five English databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature) and three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang and VIP). International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov will also be searched as supplementary. Randomised controlled trials and prospective observational studies compared the efficacy of low-dose IVIg and high-dose or moderate-dose IVIg will be included. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients achieving durable response. Estimates of effect will be pooled with either a random-effect model or a fixed-effect model according to the heterogeneity of studies. If significant heterogeneity exists, we will conduct subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis to explore the source of heterogeneity and evaluate the robustness of the results. Publication bias will also be assessed, if possible. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Risk of Bias 2 and Risk Of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Interventions tools. The certainty of evidence will be evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required since this systematic review is based on previously published studies. The findings of this study will be presented at international conferences or published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022384604.