bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short- and long-term changes in neurological, behavioural, and blood biomarkers following repeated mild traumatic brain injury in rats—potential biological sex-dependent effects
Authors: Moraga-Amaro Rodrigo , Moreno Oscar , Llop Jordi , Bankstahl Marion , Bankstahl Jens P.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease resulting from repeated mild traumatic brain injuries (rmTBI). The necessity for diagnosis of CTE, which can so far only be confirmed after post-mortem, is a pressing need. New approaches to early diagnose this disease are crucial to facilitate the translation of novel treatment strategies to the clinic. Several studies have found suitable candidate biomarkers, but the results are not straightforward. As biological sex is suggested to be a major confounding factor, we explored how sex influences behavioural and candidate blood biomarkers during CTE-like progression following experimental rmTBI.

Methods

To induce CTE-like development, we subjected male and female rats to three mTBIs at a 5-day interval. We then monitored and analysed differences in neurological, behavioural, and physiological parameters up to 12 weeks after the injuries—both by sex and grouped—and underwent further analysis using generalised estimated equation (GEE). To determine long-term changes in tau aggregation as a hallmark of CTE, we used [18F]-florzolotau (florzolotau) autoradiography in brain slices.

Results

Both short-term weight gain and time-to-right after rmTBI were increased in grouped animals, with male rats showing more prominent changes. The neurological state was impaired after each mTBI and still 12 weeks later, independent of the sex. A protracted anhedonic-like behaviour due to rmTBI was found at the group level only at week 2 but remained continuously present in male rats. While spatial memory was not impaired, male rats showed increased anxiety-like behaviour. Moreover, neuron-specific enolase (NSE) was elevated in the blood 1 day after rmTBI, but only in females. On the contrary, blood p-tau was increased 3 days after rmTBI only in males. In addition, male rats showed significantly increased florzolotau binding in the brain after 12 weeks, suggesting brain contusion causes increased tau aggregation. Interestingly, brain neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) at 12 weeks after rmTBI showed a strong correlation with the neurological state at 1 day after rmTBI.

Discussion

Taken together, our findings suggest that male rats may be more susceptible to short-and long-term consequences of rmTBI in the applied model. These sex differences should be considered when translating preclinical biomarker candidates to the clinic. Understanding these differences could guide the diagnosis and treatment of CTE in a personalized manner, offering hope for more effective treatments in the future.
Micronutrient status, food security, anaemia, Plasmodium infection, and physical activity as predictors of primary schoolchildren's body composition in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Long Kurt Z. , Traoré Sylvain G. , Kouassi Kouadio B. , Coulibaly Jean T. , Gba Bomey C. , Dao Daouda , Beckmann Johanna , Lang Christin , Seelig Harald , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Pühse Uwe , Gerber Markus , Utzinger Jürg , Bonfoh Bassirou
Published: January 2025

Background

Stunting and overt malnutrition remain prevalent among school age children in rural areas of Côte d'Ivoire while obesity is increasing in urban areas. Associations of children's nutritional status, Plasmodium infection, physical activity and household characteristics with body composition were analyzed to identify what factors might be contributing to this dual burden of disease.

Methods

Longitudinal growth curve models (LGCM) evaluated associations of micronutrient status, household food security, Plasmodium falciparum prevalence and physical activity assessed at three time points with fat free mass and fat mass.

Results

More severe anaemia was inversely associated with FFM and TrFFM trajectories overall and among girls. P. falciparum infection had an indirect inverse association with FFM trajectories through anaemia among girls and through reductions of vitamin A directly associated with FFM. Changes in zinc concentrations were positively associated with FM trajectories overall and among boys. Food insecurity was inversely associated with FFM among boys from lower socio-economic status (SES) households while increased MVPA was associated with reduced fat mass among girls.

Conclusions

The integration of Malaria control programs with efforts to improve household healthy diet and promote physical activity can lead to improvements in body composition and overall child health and wellbeing.
VIBE: an R-package for VIsualization of Bulk RNA Expression data for therapeutic targeting and disease stratification
Authors: Khatri Indu , van Asten Saskia D. , Moreno Leandro F. , Higgs Brandon W. , Klijn Christiaan , Blokzijl Francis , Kolder Iris C. R. M.
Published: January 2025

Background

Development of cancer treatments such as antibody-based therapy relies on several factors across the drug-target axis, including the specificity of target expression and characterization of downstream signaling pathways. While existing tools for analyzing and visualizing transcriptomic data offer evaluation of individual gene-level expression, they lack a comprehensive assessment of pathway-guided analysis, relevant for single- and dual-targeting therapeutics. Here, we introduce VIBE (VIsualization of Bulk RNA Expression data), an R package which provides a thorough exploration of both individual and combined gene expression, supplemented by pathway-guided analyses. VIBE’s versatility proves pivotal for disease stratification and therapeutic targeting in cancer and other diseases.

Results

VIBE offers a wide array of functions that streamline the visualization and analysis of transcriptomic data for single- and dual-targeting therapies. Its intuitive interface allows users to evaluate the expression of target genes and their associated pathways across various cancer indications, aiding in target and disease prioritization. Metadata, such as treatment or number of prior lines of therapy, can be easily incorporated to refine the identification of patient cohorts hypothesized to derive benefit from a given drug. We demonstrate how VIBE can be used to assist in indication selection and target identification in three user case studies using both simulated and real-world data. VIBE integrates statistics in all graphics, enabling data-informed decision-making.

Conclusions

VIBE facilitates detailed visualization of individual and cohort-level summaries such as concordant or discordant expression of two genes or pathways. Such analyses can help to prioritize disease indications that are amenable to treatment strategies such as bispecific or monoclonal antibody therapies. With this tool, researchers can enhance indication selection and potentially accelerate the development of novel targeted therapies with the goal of precision, personalization, and ensuring treatments align with an individual patient’s disease state across a spectrum of disorders. Explore VIBE’s full capabilities using the vignettes on the GitLab repository (https://gitlab.com/genmab-public/vibe).
Review: performance of jujube and its extracts in cancer: therapeutic, toxicity-reducing and potentiating effects
Authors: Gou Boyun , Chen Guoqing , Huang Shicong , Ning Na , Gu Qian , Duan Shuai , Du Yuhua , Nan Yi , Yuan Ling
Published: January 2025

Cancer is one of the most serious public health challenges in the world. The number of new and fatal patients with cancer continues to increase every year, which poses a serious threat to human health. Although there are effective treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy for cancers, they are often accompanied by serious side effects. With the development of the pharmaceutical industry, there is a gradual desire to develop low-toxicity and effective anticancer drugs from traditional Chinese herbs. Due to its “homology of medicine and food,” jujube is one of the traditional Chinese herbs that is extensively used in China. In addition, jujube has received much attention around the world for its excellent pharmacological effects and food value. This article reviews the anticancer effects of a fruit, food, and drug, jujube, which have been shown in current studies, and analyzes its therapeutic mechanism, active ingredients, extraction and isolation methods, as well as its synergistic and attenuation performance in cancer. This will further promote the progress of natural medicine’s anti-cancer effect.
A case report of infantile fibrosarcoma with BRAF gene mutation with incomplete intestinal obstruction
Authors: Zhu Fan , Fan Liang , Cui Guanhua , Jian Hai , Zhou Hongjie , Xu Jianfeng , Chen Fengshun
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to explore the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS) associated with BRAF mutations, with the goal of enhancing clinicians’ understanding of this rare genetic variant and its relationship to IFS.

Methods

The China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, VIP Database, PubMed, and National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) were searched using the keywords “infantile fibrosarcoma” and “congenital fibrosarcoma” for relevant articles published before August 2024. A total of 529 articles and 498 cases were identified, of which 48 articles and 149 cases were in Chinese and 479 articles and 349 cases were in foreign languages. Among them, 20 cases occurred in the gastrointestinal tract, with two cases associated with BRAF gene mutation. Combining the case reported in this paper, the clinical manifestations and treatment experience were summarized.

Results

The patient was a male infant aged 5 months 18 days who presented with vomiting for 4 days. Preoperative abdominal ultrasonography revealed an abnormal hyper-echoic mass in the right upper abdomen. Exploratory laparotomy and complete tumor excision were performed. Pathological examination confirmed a diagnosis of IFS, with molecular analysis identifying a BRAF p.V600delinsDL mutation. Postoperative follow-up over 8 months showed no recurrence or metastasis on abdominal ultrasound. A review of this case alongside 20 reported cases of intestinal IFS revealed that intestinal perforation and obstruction were the most common presentations, with favorable overall prognoses.

Conclusion

Intestinal IFS is a rare soft tissue sarcoma predominantly occurring in early infancy. Cases involving the BRAF p.V600delinsDL mutation are even rarer. Treatment should be individualized, with complete surgical resection being the cornerstone of therapy. Prognosis remains favorable following complete excision.
PMAIP1 regulates the progression of follicular thyroid carcinoma through the Wnt3/FOSL1 pathway
Authors: Wang Haobo , Shang Fangjian , Wang Yifang , Pang Bo , Kang Longfei , Zhou Chuanmin , Li Dongyun , Li Zhongxin , Jiang Xia , Liu Bo , Zhao Zengren
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In thyroid carcinoma (TC), follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) represents the second most prevalent pathological type following papillary thyroid carcinoma. Notably, FTC exhibits a more aggressive clinical course and a higher propensity for distant metastasis. However, the underlying mechanisms governing the progression of FTC remain poorly understood. PMAIP1 is a gene implicated in various cancers and biological processes. Investigating the role and mechanism of PMAIP1 in FTC is crucial for enhancing our understanding of FTC and informing clinical treatment strategies.

Methods

This study examined the expression level of PMAIP1 in FTC through comprehensive analysis of databases, tumor tissues, and cell lines. Following the establishment of a stably transfected plasmid in cell lines, a series of functional assays and subcutaneous xenograft experiment were conducted to investigate the role of PMAIP1 in FTC. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing was employed to identify potential signaling pathways associated with PMAIP1. Mechanistic studies involved a series of rescue experiments to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of PMAIP1 in FTC.

Results

PMAIP1 was found to be highly expressed in FTC, and its knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of FTC cells both in vivo and in vitro. The results of transcriptome sequencing analysis indicated that PMAIP1 may influence the progression of FTC via the Wnt signaling pathway. Subsequent investigations revealed a direct correlation between PMAIP1 expression levels and those of Wnt3 and FOSL1 in FTC. A series of rescue experiments further substantiated the regulatory role of PMAIP1 on Wnt3/FOSL1 in FTC.

Discussion

In conclusion, our research demonstrated that PMAIP1 emerges as a novel pro-cancer factor in FTC, and its knockdown significantly inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of FTC both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, PMAIP1 regulated FOSL1 by modulating the Wnt signaling pathway, thereby promoting FTC progression. Targeting PMAIP1 may present a promising therapeutic strategy for FTC.
CircRNAs in colorectal cancer: potential roles, clinical applications, and natural product-based regulation
Authors: Yang Jingjing , Fan Qiqi , Wang Yiyun , Liu Yuanyue , Xu Xiaoning , Liang Yeqi , Xie Jiakang , Li Jiajie , Ai Fengting , Cao Yong , Yu Shangzhen , Liu Jinman
Published: January 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. In recent years, circular RNAs (circRNAs), a novel class of non-coding RNA molecules, have emerged as a research focus due to their unique stability and functional roles. CircRNAs regulate tumor-related signaling pathways through interactions with microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins, playing key roles in tumorigenesis, progression, invasion, metastasis, and chemoresistance. This review summarizes the role of circRNAs in CRC, particularly their mechanisms in cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling, and immune evasion. Aberrant expression of circRNAs holds great potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for CRC. Additionally, natural products such as flavonoids and glycosides, by modulating circRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks, offer promising therapeutic strategies. The article also discusses the current technical challenges in circRNA research and its future application prospects in CRC, highlighting the need for further investigation into the role of circRNAs in tumor immune microenvironments and drug resistance mechanisms.
Case Report: Innovative anesthetic approaches for whole lung lavage in an infant with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
Authors: Chen Jiaxiang , Shi Xiaoli , Tu Youbing , Chen Yuanzhen , Wang Xueqing , Shen Jing , Xu Liang , Meng Ligang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare disease in infancy characterized by the accumulation of lipoprotein material within the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange, ventilation-perfusion mismatch, and, in severe cases, respiratory failure that may result in death. Treatment options include medical therapy and whole lung lavage (WLL), typically requiring lung isolation techniques or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Previous studies have reported the application of several lung isolation techniques in pediatric WLL. However, the use of a bronchial blocker (BB) in infant WLL has not been previously reported.

Case description

This study reports the anesthesia management of a 12-month-old infant diagnosed with secondary PAP, complicated by severe pneumonia and patent ductus arteriosus. The child presented with respiratory failure requiring WLL. The anesthesia method employed was intravenous general anesthesia, and airway management involved using a BB placed outside the endotracheal tube to facilitate one-lung ventilation (OLV). The procedure successfully maintained blood oxygen levels above 90%, and the WLL was completed without any anesthetic complications.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates that using endotracheal intubation combined with extraluminal placement of a BB for lung isolation is a viable and effective approach for performing WLL in infants.
NCAPD3-mediated ferroptosis of 2,3,5,4’-Tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside inhibits proliferation in T47D cells
Authors: Shen Jianfen , Zhang Shuo , Song Yan , Yang Leiming , Huang Qi , Wang Pengyu , Zhang Youzhi
Published: January 2025

Objective

Non-SMC condensin II complex subunit D3 (NCAPD3) has recently been demonstrated as a crucial oncogenic factor, nevertheless, the biological role of NCAPD3 in the pathogenesis of breast cancer has not been elucidated. Evidence suggests that targeting ferroptosis can inhibit the progression of breast cancer. Moreover, 2,3,5,4’-Tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside (THSG) could modulate MCF-7 cell proliferation in our previous study. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the potential mechanism by which NCAPD3 mediates ferroptosis in THSG inhibition of T47D cell proliferation by full-length transcriptome sequencing.

Methods

Alternative splicing analysis was performed based on full-length transcriptome sequencing and the overlapping genes in differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) and differential alternative splicing (diAS) were obtained. Further, RT-PCR was used to validate the type of alternative splicing. And the hub genes (transcripts) were selected using the bioinformatics analysis, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting (WB). Moreover, cell cycle and ferroptosis were assessed using flow cytometry analysis and WB respectively. Mechanically, cell viability and clone formation was detected using Biochemical kit. And siRNA of Ncapd3 was transfected into T47D cells to detect the expression levels of ferroptosis-related proteins (WB) and cell viability (MTT).

Results

40 overlapping transcripts of DETs and diAS were obtained consistent with the analysis of full-length transcriptome sequencing, and Ncapd3 (Ncapd3-203) is key gene (transcript), which was also highly expressed in breast cancer and THSG could inhibit the mRNA and protein expression. Moreover, THSG could induce cell cycle arrest in G2/M stage and reduce ferroptosis-related protein expression (xCT and GPx4). Mechanically, we found that THSG inhibits the cell proliferation and clone formation in T47D cells, and Ncapd3 inhibition could inhibit (xCT and GPx4) proteins expression, which regulated THSG-suppressing effect in T47D cells.

Conclusion

THSG could inhibit the proliferation in T47D cells by NCAPD3 -dependent ferroptosis, which provided novel insights into targeted strategy for breast cancer.
Impact of finasteride on modulating the risk and clinical outcomes of bladder cancer: insights from a comprehensive meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Ailing , Bai Zian , Wang Yijie , Luo Zhen , Du Xiaochen , Chen Mengxin , Wen Shuang , Wang Honglong , Yuan Xiaoying , Yang Chunyu , Bai Shanshan , Fan Bo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Numerous prior analyses have highlighted a potential link between androgen suppression therapy (AST) and bladder cancer (BCa). However, there is a notable gap in research specifically examining the influence of finasteride on BCa risk and clinical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate preventive and therapeutic value of finasteride for BCa patients.

Methods

This meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched up to 20 December 2024, to identify studies that examined the intake of finasteride and its impact on the incidence and clinical prognosis of patients with BCa. Data was extracted for further analysis by two different reviewers who independently examined the titles and abstracts of the included articles. Subgroup analyses and leave-one-out sensitivity analyses, were applied to mitigate the potential confounding factors associated with heterogeneity.

Results

Our investigation revealed that finasteride markedly decreased the likelihood of developing BCa (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.63–0.88). Subgroup analyses indicated that the preventive effect of finasteride in BCa incidence were generally consistent, regardless of study region, types of research. Furthermore, no notable disparities were observed in OS, CSS, or RFS between the finasteride group and the control group.

Conclusion

Finasteride plays a protective role against the progression of BCa, nevertheless, its effects on prognostic outcomes, including OS, CSS, and RFS, remain inconclusive. Additional multi-center prospective studies with long-term follow-up are required to further validate prophylactic role of finasteride on bladder cancer.

Systematic review registration number

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=525046, identifier CRD42024525046.
Polymers for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhu Yunfeng , Xu Haibin , Yu Chaoyan , Jiang Wenting , Hou Xiaowen , Ma Mingyue , Wu Ji
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system in the middle-aged and elderly population. It is a neurodegenerative disorder, and its main clinical symptoms include the loss of established memories, a decline in learning capacity, and the buildup of β-amyloid peptides. The disease is often accompanied by neurodegenerative changes and the formation of neurofibrillary tangles. However, the number of drugs available for the clinical treatment of AD remains limited. Currently, existing medications are not effective in completely curing the disease or stopping its progression. Due to their excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, polymers have been widely used as drug delivery carriers in various fields including cancer therapy and wound healing. The use of polymers enables targeted drug delivery and prolonged release profiles. In recent years, researchers have made significant progress in utilizing polymers such as polyethylene glycol, poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and chitosan (CS) to deliver drugs and blood-brain barrier receptor ligands for the treatment of AD. Moreover, many polymers with inherent therapeutic properties have been developed, including the already marketed GV-971 as well as experimental polymers such as PLGA and CS oligosaccharide. This review summarizes the applications of polymers in AD treatment over the past few years and highlights their current limitations to help researchers better understand current advancements in polymer development and identify future research directions.
Side-stepping the guardian of the genome: current cancer therapeutics targeting mutant p53
Authors: Taritsa Iulianna C. , Fossel Eric T.
Published: January 2025

Cancer therapies have attempted to target the transcription factor p53, a gene also described as the “guardian of the genome,” for decades. However, the approach has faced numerous barriers to clinical efficacy due to several factors: mutations in p53 occur in almost half of all human cancers, mutations are cancer-specific, and the associated genomic changes grant mutant p53 with oncogenic potential unique from that of wild-type p53. A host of new therapeutic agents have emerged that work to target mutant p53. These agents can broadly be classified into six categories: the viral approach, direct modifiers of the p53 pathway, epigenetic modifiers of the p53 pathway, synthetic lethal agents, structural reactivators, and immune activating vaccines. Even these strategies have been met with limited success. Bypassing p53 entirely may be the next avenue in cancer therapeutics to kill tumor cells regardless of p53’s mutation pattern.
The SEPALLATA-like gene HrSEP1 in Hippophae rhamnoides regulates flower development by interacting with other MADS-box subfamily genes
Authors: Cong Di , Zhao Xue , Ni Chang , Li Mengru , Han Luwen , Cheng Jianlin , Liu Hongzhang , Liu Huijing , Yao Dan , Liu Shuying , Chen Guoshuang
Published: January 2025

MADS-box genes are classified into five categories: ABCDE, including SEP1, SEP2, SEP3, SEP4, and other homologous genes, which play important roles in floral organ development. In this study, the cDNA sequence of the HrSEP1 gene was cloned by RT-PCR and confirmed that this gene belongs to the MADS-box gene family. In addition, subcellular localization experiments showed that the HrSEP1 protein was localized in the nucleus. We verified the interaction of HrSEP1 with HrSOC1, HrSVP, and HrAP1 using yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays. These genes jointly regulate the growth and development of floral organs. We also found a strong synergy between HrSEP1 and AP1 genes in sepals, petals, and stamens by transgenic methods and fluorescence quantitative PCR, suggesting that HrSEP1 and AP1 may co-regulate the development of these structures. In conclusion, the expression of HrSEP1 has a certain effect on the development of floral organs, and these findings lay the foundation for further research on the biological functions of MADS transcription factors in Hippophae rhamnoides.
Unveiling genetic basis of seedling emergence from deep soil depth under dry direct- seeded conditions in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Mishra Vagish , Dixit Shilpi , Tyagi Swati , Venkateswarlu Challa , Paul Pronob J. , Gurjar Anoop Kishor Singh , Dixit Shalabh , Sandhu Nitika , Kurup Smita , Kumar Arvind , Sinha Pallavi , Singh Vikas Kumar , Singh Uma Maheshwar
Published: January 2025

Water scarcity and labor shortage pose significant challenges in rice farming. Direct-seeded rice (DSR) is an efficient method that conserves water, reduces labor costs, and allows for full mechanization of cultivation. However, variable planting depth in undulated field leading to deep/shallow sowing of rice seeds during mechanical sowing presents a major hurdle, as existing varieties lack tolerance to deep sowing. To address this, a mapping population comprising 150 F4 lines, derived from MTU 1010 and AUS295, was developed and phenotyped for emergence from deep soil depth-related traits, including days of emergence (DE), percent germination (PG), mesocotyl length (ML), and coleoptile length (CL). The correlation revealed that DE has a significant negative correlation with PG, ML, and CL, whereas PG, ML, and CL are all positively correlated with each other. The mapping population was genotyped with mid-density SNP assay (1k-RiCA), and a linkage map was established with 414 polymorphic SNP markers. A total of 16 QTLs were identified for four traits, with phenotypic variance explained (PVE) ranging from 6.63% to 19.6% in the WS22. These included 5 QTLs for DE, 3 QTLs for PG, 4 QTLs for ML, and 4 QTLs for CL. Out of 16 QTLs identified, 12 were major effect QTLs (qDE1.2, qDE1.3, qDE1.4, qDE2.1, qDE12, qPG2.1, qPG2.2, qML2.1, qML2.2, qCL1, qCL2.2, qCL2.3) and 4 were minor effect QTLs (qPG1, qML1.2, qCL2.1). During DS23 season, QTL analysis for DE and PG traits identified seven and three QTLs, respectively. Out of the ten QTLs identified in DS23 season, eight were stable across the season. This study reported 11 novel QTLs, while 7 had been previously reported. The study pinpointed three QTL hotspot regions: one on chromosome 1 (qPG1, qCL1) and two on chromosome 2 (qPG2.1, qML2.2, qCL2.1) and (qPG2.2, qCL2.2). Candidate gene analysis in the identified QTL regions found two genes associated with hormonal pathways: OsSLR1 for gibberellin signaling and OsSAUR11 for abscisic acid signaling. Additionally, one gene (OsMT3a) associated with early seedling vigor and another (OsABA8ox1) regulates germination through coleoptile growth. The identified QTLs, genes, and breeding lines from this study provide valuable resources for developing rice varieties with enhanced tolerance to deep soil emergence, making them well-suited for mechanized DSR systems.
GWAS identifies a polyembryony locus in mango: development of KASP and PACE markers for marker-assisted breeding
Authors: Ali Gul Shad , Eltaher Shamseldeen , Li Jin , Freeman Barbie , Singh Sukhwinder
Published: January 2025

Apomixis is a horticultural trait that enables clonal propagation of hybrids by producing asexual embryos from maternal cells in the ovule without meiosis. Many mango cultivars exhibit apomictic polyembryony, where one embryo develops from zygotic tissues and the rest from nucellar tissues, resulting in seedlings that are genetically identical to the mother tree. In Mangifera indica L. commercially important rootstocks are raised from apomictic seeds, which are then grafted with desired cultivars. Identifying molecular markers for polyembryony and understanding its genetics would facilitate introducing this trait in commercially important cultivars. In this report, genome-wide association studies were conducted on a diversity panel consisting of 42 polyembryonic and 42 monoembryonic M. indica cultivars using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. These studies revealed that the polyembryony locus is in a 360-kb region on linkage group 17 of the ‘Alphonso’ reference genome. This locus contains the MiRWP/MiRKD4 gene, which codes for an RWP–RK domain-containing protein previously implicated in citrus apomixis. Comparative genomic analyses revealed synteny between the citrus and the mango polyembryony loci, suggesting a common evolutionary mechanism for this trait. A total of 29 SNP markers in this locus were significantly associated with polyembryony in M. indica. Five of these markers were developed into convenient genotyping assays using competitive allele-specific PCR chemistry implemented in two different genotyping platforms – Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) and PCR allele competitive extension (PACE). The utility of these assays was validated and demonstrated in diverse germplasm collection and open-pollinated mango breeding populations with known pedigrees and polyembryony phenotypes. These SNP markers, especially those flanking the MiRWP/MiRKD4 gene, provide a valuable tool for mango breeders to select polyembryonic progenies at the seedling stages in mango breeding programs.
Fruit size prediction of tomato cultivars using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Takahashi Masaaki , Kawasaki Yasushi , Naito Hiroki , Lee Unseok , Yoshi Koichi
Published: January 2025

Early fruit size prediction in greenhouse tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is crucial for growers managing cultivars to reduce the yield ratio of small-sized fruit and for stakeholders in the horticultural supply chain. We aimed to develop a method for early prediction of tomato fruit size at harvest with machine learning algorithm, and three machine learning models (Ridge Regression, Extra Tree Regrreion, CatBoost Regression) were compared using the PyCaret package for Python. For constructing the models, the fruit weight estimated from the fruit diameter obtained over time for each cumulative temperature after anthesis was used as explanatory variable and the fruit weight at harvest was used as objective variable. Datasets for two different prediction periods after anthesis of three tomato cultivars (“CF Momotaro York,” “Zayda,” and “Adventure.”) were used to develop tomato size prediction models, and their performance was evaluated. We also aimed to improve the model adding the average temperature during the prediction period as an explanatory variable. When the estimated fruit size data at cumulative temperatures of 200°C d, 300°C d, and 500°C d after anthesis were used as explanatory variables, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) was lowest for “Zayda,” a cultivar with stable fruit diameter, at 9.8% for Ridge Regression. When the estimated fruit size at cumulative temperatures of 300°C d, 500°C d, and 800°C d after anthesis were used as explanatory variables for Ridge Regression, the MAPE decreased for all cultivars: 10.1% for “CF Momotaro York,” 8.8% for “Zayda,” and 10.0% for “Adventure.” In addition, incorporating the average temperature during the fruit size prediction period as an explanatory variable slightly increased model performance. These results indicate that this method could effectively predict tomato size at harvest in three cultivars. If fruit diameter data acquisition could be automated or simplified, it would assist in cultivation management, such as tomato thinning.
Stamens enclosed by petals in Berchemia (Rhamnaceae): a unique mechanism for pollen presentation
Authors: Ma Fang , Zhao Qian , Tian Xing , Fu Yao-lei , Liu Wen-zhe
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Pollen is usually presented by the anthers after maturity. However, in some plants, pollen is presented to pollinators on other floral structures (other than the anthers), or via particular expulsion mechanisms, resulting in secondary pollen presentation. The unusual petal morphology in Berchemia mediates pollen presentation, characterised by a combination of secondary pollen presentation and primary pollen presentation. However, the function, the role in reproduction, and the evolutionary significance of the unusual petals remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, we took Berchemia flavescens and Berchemia polyphylla var. leioclada as examples, and used field observations, semi-thin sections technology, scanning electron microscopy, and pollination ecology detection methods to explore the unique pollen presentation strategies, petal functions, and reproductive strategies in Berchemia.

Results

This is a unique pollen presentation process mediated by petals. In the advanced bud stage, petals curl inward, enclosing the stamens. Following anther dehiscence, pollen is released into the petal tube, where the filament and cone-shaped anthers act as pistons, extruding pollen or pollen clumps through gaps at the petal tube apex (secondary pollen presentation). Subsequently, as the anthers emerge from the petal tube, residual pollen is directly presented to pollinators (primary pollen presentation).

Discussion

In Berchemia, the petals enclosing the stamens, effectively shield the pollen from extreme environmental conditions. The petal-stamen complex slow movement (first centrifugal, later centripetal) and pollen presentation in Berchemia suggest a unique reproductive strategy. This mechanism promotes outcrossing, minimizing interference between the pistil and stamens, and offers reproductive assurance by delayed self-pollination.
Validation of a one-step reverse transcription PCR detection method for Tobamovirus maculatessellati, in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Padmanabhan Chellappan , Gilliard Andrea , Ling Kai-Shu , Rivera Yazmín
Published: January 2025

The solanaceous-infecting tobamoviruses are closely related and hence it can be challenging to detect them using serological or molecular methods, particularly when present in a mixed infection. Tomato mottle mosaic virus (ToMMV) is a newly identified tobamovirus that poses serious risk to tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) production worldwide. Species-specific identification is crucial to prevent the entry and establishment of plant pathogens and protect the billion-dollar tomato industry. In this study, we report the validation of a previously described reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay that amplifies a 289 bp fragment of the coat protein coding region of ToMMV genome. This assay has 100% specificity for ToMMV. Inclusivity tests were performed against a diverse collection of six ToMMV isolates in North America. Exclusivity tests showed no cross reaction with eleven non-target viruses and seven viroids commonly found on tomato and pepper host plants. The detection limit of the one-step RT-PCR was determined to be at 10-5 (or 0.25pg/μl) dilution in plant samples, with its amplicon sequence confirmed by Sanger sequencing. The RT-PCR can detect ToMMV consistently on contaminated seed or leaf tissues. This validated assay could serve as a standard method for detecting ToMMV in seed health testing and for plant disease diagnosis, thus to prevent inadvertent introduction and spread of this emerging and economically important tobamovirus in tomato and pepper fields.
The agenda premises of the judicialization of politics: policy attention in Israel’s high court of justice
Authors: Rosenthal Maoz , Meydani Assaf
Published: January 2025

This study examines the supposed “activism” of Israel’s High Court of Justice amid recent political crises and legislative efforts to curb its powers. While judicial behavior often balances political activism and constitutional problem-solving, this paper analyzes the Court’s agenda structure to assess its approach. The research hypothesizes that an activist court would maintain an agenda focused on a few core topics over time. In contrast, a court that takes a legal, constitutional approach would have an agenda with a broad array of topics and policy punctuations. Analyzing the Court’s rulings from 1995 to 2018, this study reveals an agenda structure mostly aligning with the latter expectation. By examining the dynamics of policy attention, this paper contributes to our understanding of judicial review strategies beyond traditional preference and incentive-based models. The findings suggest that Israel’s High Court of Justice usually operates more as a legal problem solver than an activist institution, offering new insights into its role in Israeli politics and policymaking.
Psychometric properties of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) in Peruvian adolescents
Authors: Figueroa-Quiñones Joel , Ipanaqué-Zapata Miguel , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Zevallos Mayanga Giusepi , Gonzales Diaz Diana
Published: January 2025

Background

Adolescence and technological devices have a close relationship during this stage in which anxiety about using a cell phone increases when it is not available. The Nomophobia Scale (NMP-Q) is a measure that evaluates anxiety behaviors when being without a mobile phone.

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) in Peruvian adolescents.

Methods

An instrumental study was conducted and 900 adolescents of both sexes, between 12 and 17 years old, living in northern, rural, and eastern regions of Peru were evaluated. A confirmatory factor analysis was carried out to determine the structure and the structural invariance of the measures according to age was evaluated and the reliability was estimated by means of the Omega reliability coefficient.

Results

The four--factor structure composed of 20 items was confirmed with optimal goodness-of-fit indices (CFI = 0.992; TLI = 0.991; SRMR = 0.053; RMSEA = 0.039). The MIMIC models reported invariance for age groups (ΔCFI <0.01, ΔRMSEA <0.015). The omega reliability coefficients ranged between 0.84 and 0.90.”

Conclusion

The Peruvian version of the NMP-Q (20 items) has shown adequate psychometric properties to assess nomophobia in the adolescent population.
Investigating academic resilience in learning English: an ecological context of undergraduate students
Authors: Liaqat Faiza , Islam Muhammad , Azim Muhammad Umer , Lodhi Ahmad Sohail
Published: January 2025

Despite a general understanding of the role resilience may play in students’ wellbeing and learning growth, there has been little or no focus on examining the resilient attitude of undergraduate L2 learners from Lahore, Pakistan. Students from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds are drawn to Lahore because it is a hub for higher education in Pakistan with almost 28 public and private sector universities. This quantitative study collected data from 498 undergraduate students from various academic disciplines and ethnic backgrounds studying in the universities of Lahore. The study utilized a survey questionnaire on Student AR in English Learning Scale, adapted to align with Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological System Theory. The study conducted statistical analyses, including Regression Analysis, one-way ANOVA, descriptive statistics, and frequency counts, to gain results. The findings underscored an important role of ecological factors, such as self-esteem, teacher support, peer support, and problem solving, which contributed significantly to the AR of participants. In addition, the findings also suggest that Baloch students exhibited lower scores across multiple dimensions of AR and social support as compared to all other ethnic groups, including Pashtun, Punjabis, Sindhi, and Saraiki. This research contributes to the understanding of resilience dynamics within a multicultural English language learning context and highlights the need to provide cultural sensitivity training to teachers and students in order to foster inclusive language learning environments.
Alleviating occupational stress in Chinese junior high school teachers: the role of mindfulness-based interventions
Authors: Bian Huimian , Jiang He
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Occupational stress is a significant issue among junior high school teachers in China, contributing to negative outcomes such as reduced mental health, impaired coping abilities, and decreased job satisfaction.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study investigates the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on occupational stress and mental health among junior high school teachers in China. A total of 118 teachers participated in the study, with a randomly assigned experimental group undergoing an 4-week mindfulness training program, while the control group received no intervention. Standardized measures of occupational stress, mental health, coping self-efficacy, and mindfulness were used to assess the outcomes before and after the intervention.

Findings

The findings revealed that teachers who participated in the mindfulness program experienced significant reductions in occupational stress and improvements in mental health and coping self-efficacy compared to the control group. Additionally mindfulness levels increased significantly among participants who underwent the training.

Discussion

The results suggest that mindfulness-based interventions can effectively alleviate occupational stress and enhance psychological wellbeing among junior high school teachers in China, highlighting the importance of implementing such programs to support educators in managing stress and maintaining mental health.
The mattering citizen: young adults with mental illness and complex needs’ experiences and perceived opportunities of social inclusion
Authors: Nord-Baade Silje , Ness Ottar , Rowe Michael , Jensen Camilla Bergsve , Landheim Anne
Published: January 2025

The negative effects of social exclusion are well known, as are the effects of social inclusion on quality of life and well-being. Young adults with mental illness and complex needs are among the most marginalized people in the community. There is a pressing need to better define and promote social inclusion in mental health and substance use services, addressing both objective and subjective factors. The aim of this qualitative study was to examine the experiences and perceived opportunities of social inclusion among young adults with mental illness and complex needs. This was done to develop a comprehensive understanding of social inclusion that can be applied by providers in the fields of welfare, mental health, and substance use. Seven young adults (three males/four females, aged 22–29) were recruited through Flexible Assertive Community Treatment teams and participated in the study through qualitative semi-structured interviews. The material was analyzed employing an abductive thematic analysis. The findings show the interconnection between the elements of Citizenship and Mattering and underline the need for a framework including both the psychological and sociological perspectives. Developing the Citizenship framework and incorporating the Mattering approach is suggested as a multifaceted approach to promote social inclusion in practice, calling for further research on this.
Exploring nature-based art therapy: a scoping review
Authors: Gulbe Elīna , Ozola Aija , Vītola Beāte , Akmane Elīna , Pacek Jasmina , Mārtinsone Kristīne
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Nature-based art therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses natural elements and settings to promote well-being and health through creative expression, facilitated by a professional art therapist. Interest in nature-based mental health approaches surged, particularly following the COVID-19 lockdowns, as research highlights nature’s role in health restoration and sustainability. Despite growth in the field, a comprehensive overview of nature-based art therapy remains absent. This scoping review aimed to map the research landscape and identify the thematic scope within this emerging field.

Methods

A systematic search following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines across the ProQuest, SAGE, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and ScienceDirect databases identified 11 publications that address art therapy involving nature and are published in English.

Results

The review identified four key themes: areas of focus, nature engagement, core elements, and challenges in nature-based art therapy. The areas of focus encompassed overall mental health and well-being, emotion regulation and stress management, cognitive development, social bond and support, self-discovery and personal growth, trauma and grief management, creative self-expression, and environmental sustainability. The core elements, such as artwork, materials, and therapy settings, were identified. Although nature-based therapy, involving both direct and indirect nature engagement, described promising benefits, specific challenges, including complexities in client assistance, constraints in nature access, psychosocial and cultural barriers, and risk management, were also highlighted.

Discussion

This scoping review provides a comprehensive framework for understanding nature-based art therapy and underscores the need for further theoretical and practical evidence-based development in this field.
The influence of physical exercise on achievement motivation among college students: the mediating roles of self-efficacy and life satisfaction
Authors: Cao Longan , Yu Qianhang , Feng Xin , Wang Lei , Lang Jun
Published: January 2025

Background

As an inherent cognitive process in the pursuit of progress among college students, achievement motivation has become an indispensable facet of daily life. This study aims to investigate the association between physical exercise and achievement motivation, while also examining the mediating roles played by self-efficacy and life satisfaction.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional survey methodology, with a sample of 900 Chinese university students as the research participants. A total of 844 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed. The participants completed various scales, including measures of sports activity level, self-efficacy, life satisfaction, and achievement motivation. Subsequently, comprehensive descriptive statistical analyses were conducted on the gathered data.

Results and conclusion

A significant positive correlation is present between physical exercise and achievement motivation (r = 0.464, p < 0.01), self-efficacy (r = 0.288, p < 0.01), and life satisfaction (r = 0.333, p < 0.01) among college students. Moreover, achievement motivation demonstrates a positive association with self-efficacy (r = 0.506, p < 0.01) and life satisfaction (r = 0.399, p < 0.01). Furthermore, the relationship between physical exercise and achievement motivation can be influenced by both self-efficacy and life satisfaction as mediators in our constructed mediation model where the total effect is 0.512 with direct effect of 0.348 and indirect effect of 0.163. The results of the constructed mediating effect model demonstrate that self-efficacy and life satisfaction serve as significant mediators and moderators, effectively enhancing the achievement motivation levels of college students. This study provides novel insights for enhancing intervention strategies to improve levels of achievement motivation not only among Chinese but also global college students.