bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mining seed quality traits in the USDA sesame germplasm collection identifies useful accessions for improving nutritional breeding
Authors: Wang Ming Li , Tonnis Brandon , Morris J. Bradley , Pinnow David , Stigura Nick , Benke Ryan , Li Xianran
Published: January 2025

Plant germplasm is the most basic genetic resource for plant cultivar improvement and development. Mining germplasm collections can identify accessions that are advantageous for breeding programs. To identify sesame accessions with desirable seed nutritional quality traits, the entire USDA sesame collection (1231 accessions) was screened for seed oil content, fatty acid composition, and 100‐seed weight. We identified significant variability in 100‐seed weight (mean: 0.32 g, range: 0.1–0.5 g) and oil content (mean: 54.9%, range 28.3%–65.5%) among the accessions. Sesame seeds mainly contained four major fatty acids: 44.8% linoleic acid (18:2), 39.5% oleic acid (18:1), 9.0% palmitic acid (16:0), 5.2% stearic acid (18:0) and six minor fatty acids: 0.1% palmitoleic acid (16:1), 0.4% linolenic acid (18:3), 0.6% arachidic acid (20:0), 0.2% gadoleic (20:1), 0.1% behenic acid (22:0), and 0.1% lignoceric acid (24:0). For each trait, two accessions were classified as having high 100‐seed weight (PI 238992: 0.54 g and PI 250626: 050 g), high oil content (PI 238992: 65.5% and PI 250626: 64.2%), or high oleic acid levels (PI 263470: 54.4% and PI 263454: 50.3%). For most accessions, levels of oleic and linoleic acid were related to country origins where the germplasm accessions were collected. The information on these seed nutritional quality traits is useful, but breeding efforts or genetic methods are needed for developing new sesame cultivars or enhanced germplasm with these traits. Among 1231 accessions, nine accessions were further evaluated for additional seed nutritional quality traits and accession PI 263470 was successfully used as starting genetic material for mutagenesis to enhance levels of oleic acid.
Fine‐Tuning of Hydrophilic Properties of Asymmetrically Porous Poly(ε‐Caprolactone)‐Based Nanofibrous Scaffolds Containing Dexamethasone for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Rahnamafar Reyhaneh , Moradikhah Farzad , Doosti‐Telgerd Mehdi , Oveisi Mina , Yousefi Iman , Moradi Leila , Karimi Ali Zandi , Akbari Tayebeh , Lotfabadi Alireza , Khoobi Mehdi
Published: January 2025

Bone abnormalities and injuries provide serious medical issues. Bone has the ability for regeneration; however, its regenerative potential is limited. Tissue engineering has gained significant attention as a potential treatment for bone abnormalities. In this study, poly‐caprolactone (PCL)‐based nanofibers containing various concentrations of poly‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline (PEtOx) and loaded with Dexamethasone (Dex) were prepared and evaluated as multifunctional bioscaffolds for bone regeneration. Various techniques were employed to characterize the feature of the electrospun scaffolds including 1H‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and gel permission chromatography (GPC). The swelling degree, mechanical property, degradation behavior, and drug release profile were also evaluated. The cell viability of the electrospun nanofibers on human adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) were examined by MTT, and osteogenic differentiation potency was studied by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and calcium deposition assessments. According to the findings, a higher PEtOx concentration in the polymer solution reduced the nanofiber diameter while increasing the swelling rate, mass loss amount, and Young's modulus of the produced scaffolds. The release profile of Dex from the electrospun scaffold influenced osteogenic differentiation in stem cells. The scaffold revealed promising features that could be employed for further bone injury studies.
Changes in Blood Quality and Metabolites of Tachypleus tridentatus Under Captive Breeding Conditions
Authors: Yifan Liang , Bohan Zhang , Xiurong Ye , Jiuman Jia
Published: January 2025

To reveal the effects of captive breeding on the physiology and metabolism of Tachypleus tridentatus, 90 T. tridentatus juveniles were selected, and blood samples were collected from each four times during a 90‐day experiment. The blood quality was analysed by measuring Cu content. The results showed that, on Days 0, 30, 60 and 90, the Cu content in the blood of male juvenile T. tridentatus was 37.15, 22.62, 10.15 and 16.63 mg/L, respectively, with Days 30, 60 and 90 being 39.10%, 72.69% and 55.23% lower than Day 0. The Cu content in the blood of female T. tridentatus on Days 0, 30, 60 and 90 was 39.89, 20.27, 7.33 and 7.53 mg/L, respectively, with decreases of 45.44%, 80.26% and 81.11% on Days 30, 60 and 90 compared with Day 0. This indicated that the blood quality of male and female T. tridentatus decreased under captive breeding conditions. To measure metabolites, three male and three female T. tridentatus were selected and cultured under captive breeding conditions, and blood samples were collected on Days 0 and 30 and analysed using nontargeted metabolomics. Thirteen differentially expressed metabolites were identified, among which six significantly increased and seven significantly decreased. Among metabolic pathways, the sphingolipid metabolic pathways were notably affected. Changes in significant metabolites and metabolic pathways revealed nutritional deficiencies in protein, fat and vitamins. Insufficient nutrient supply was an important reason for the decline in blood quality of T. tridentatus under captive breeding conditions. In addition, four significantly different metabolites, namely, sphingosine, heptadecasphingosine, D‐erythro‐imidazolyl glycerophosphate and stearic acid, were selected as future target metabolites to analyse the nutritional demand of T. tridentatus under captive breeding conditions.
Nucleic Acid Aptamer‐Based Sensors for Bacteria Detection: A Review
Authors: Tang Yalan , Li Yun , Chen Ping , Zhong Shian , Yang Yanjing
Published: January 2025

Bacteria have a significant impact on human production and life, endangering human life and health, so rapid detection of infectious agents is essential to improve human health. Aptamers, which are pieces of oligonucleotides (DNA or RNA) have been applied to biosensors for bacteria detection due to their high affinity, selectivity, robust chemical stability, and their compatibility with various signal amplification and signal transduction mechanisms. In this review, we summarize the different bacterial aptamers selected in recent years using SELEX technology and discuss the differences in optical and electrochemical bacterial aptamer sensors. In addition the technological developments and innovations in bacterial aptamer sensor technology are introduced. Combining new materials and methods, the efficiency and stability of the sensors have also been improved. This review summarizes the progress of current bacterial aptamer sensors based on their practical application status and provides an outlook on their future development.
Fabrication of Highly Fluorescent Nitrogen and Phosphorus Dual‐Doped Carbon Dots for Selective Sensing of Rutin
Authors: Kannouma Reham E. , Kamal Amira H. , Hammad Mohamed A. , Mansour Fotouh R.
Published: January 2025

Based on nitrogen and phosphorus co‐doped carbon dots (NP‐CDs), a direct, quick, and selective sensing probe for fluorometric detection of rutin has been developed. Utilizing ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) as a carbon and nitrogen source and diammonium hydrogen phosphate (NH4)2HPO4 as a nitrogen and phosphorus source. The NP‐CDs were synthesized in less than 3 min with a straightforward one‐step microwave pyrolysis process with a high quantum yield (63.8%). After being excited at λ = 360 nm, the produced NP‐CDs displayed a maximum bluish fluorescence at λem of 420 nm. Rutin quenched the fluorescence of the produced NP‐CDs based on the inner filter effect and static quenching processes. Along with the International Council of Harmonization (ICH) requirements, the developed spectrofluorometric method was validated. The linearity range was 0.50–35.00 μg/mL of rutin. The developed NP‐CDs were successfully employed to determine rutin concentrations in marketed tablets. The developed method is quick, simple, consistent, sensitive, and selective, and it does not require expensive chemicals or specialized instruments. This study paves the path for future application of NP‐CD in pharmaceutical analysis.
An Overview of In Vitro Models of Alcohol‐Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Courtois Anoïsia , Gérard Sophie , Esparteiro Damien , Nguyen‐Khac Eric , Marcq Ingrid , Fouquet Grégory
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic and excessive alcohol consumption is the leading cause of death due to chronic liver disease. Alcohol‐related liver disease (ALD) encompasses a broad spectrum of clinical and pathological features, ranging from asymptomatic and reversible pathologies to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a highly prevalent and deadly liver cancer. Indeed, alcohol consumption is one of the main worldwide etiologies of HCC. However, the impact of alcohol consumption on HCC pathophysiology and the associated mechanisms remains unclear. Thus, in vitro alcohol‐related HCC models are essential for addressing this issue and for assessing new molecular markers of this disease. In this review, we discuss the current in vitro models of alcohol‐related HCC. Our global overview demonstrates the lack of uniformity regarding HCC cell lines, alcohol concentration, and duration of alcohol exposure among existing models. Despite efforts to model alcohol exposure effectively that demonstrate enhancement of cancer cell transformation markers and HCC aggressiveness following, respectively, short‐term and long‐term alcohol exposure, current in vitro models possess numerous limitations.

Aim

This review highlights future challenges in the development of more integrated and representative models of the complex pathophysiology of alcohol‐related HCC.
Gigantic, Sixteen‐Pound Carcinoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma of the Neck
Authors: Rothka Andrew J. , Ferraro Maria , Bavier Richard , Saltagi Mohamad , Bhele Sanica , Goyal Neerav , Slonimsky Guy
Published: January 2025

Carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenomas are rare malignant tumors of the salivary glands, primarily seen in older adults. They originate from benign pleomorphic adenomas, are aggressive, and have poorer prognosis. This case documents an unusual presentation of a massive carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma.
Organic Luminescent Cocrystals Based on Benzotriazole Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization, Crystal Structure and Fluorescence Behavior
Authors: Fan Shengyu , Liu Xin , Yao Shuzhi , Xing Guangnan , Xu Xiaohui , Shi Guanyu , Song Zhiguang , Feng Guodong
Published: January 2025

Organic cocrystals have garnered significant research attention owing to their distinctive properties and promising applications. However, challenges in molecular structure design and control of intermolecular interactions continue to impede further advancements. In this study, two novel cocrystals were successfully formed from a series of synthesized benzotriazole derivatives. The resulting cocrystals exhibit bright green and yellow fluorescence under 365 nm light. To elucidate the microstructure of the obtained cocrystals, systematic characterization techniques such as solid‐state fluorescence emission spectroscopy, Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD), Power X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) and density functional theory (DFT) were performed. These benzotriazole‐based cocrystals demonstrate distinct fluorescent responses to alkaline and acidic environments, respectively. Additionally, preliminary tests for fingerprint recognition yielded satisfactory results. These findings suggest that the two cocrystals hold potential applications in acid‐alkali sensing, anti‐counterfeiting labels, and smart material development, while also providing valuable insights for the design and optimization of solid‐state luminescent materials.
Binding‐Site Directed Selection and Large‐Scale Click‐Synthesis of a Coagulation Factor XIa‐Inhibiting Circular DNA Aptamer
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhou Yuefei , Sun Long , Liu Tao , Qu Hao , Mao Yu , Zheng Lei
Published: January 2025

Factor XIa (FXIa) is a plasma protease that catalyzes the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation, thus being regarded as a promising antithrombotic target. Circular DNA aptamers, with their dramatically enhanced biological and structural stability, hold great potential as new‐generation DNA‐based anticoagulants. However, the functional selection of circular aptamers and large‐scale synthesis of them remains a substantial challenge. In this study, we explored a binding‐site directed selection strategy to enrich circular DNA aptamers that can target the catalytic domain of FXIa and inhibit its function. An asymmetrical dumbbell structured DNA library with self‐shielding primer‐binding site was utilized for selection. This approach has resulted in the identification of a circular DNA aptamer, named FICAPT1, which demonstrates a high binding affinity (Kd=20 nM), notable stability (with a half‐life of 16 h in human plasma) and outstanding anticoagulation activity (with significantly prolonged aPTT), showing great promise as a novel anticoagulant. Moreover, a refined version of FICAPT1, named as CC‐FICAPT1, was quantitatively synthesized (~2 mg/mL) by taking advantage of the pre‐designed structure and high cyclization efficiency of click chemistry. The approach presented in this study enables the efficient generation of functional circular DNA aptamers and allows for their synthesis in a satisfactory scale, making it adaptable for the production of various circular aptamers for therapeutic applications.
An Improved Power Allocation Scheme for Downlink NOMA‐Based MIMO Visible Light Communication Systems
Authors: Dogra Tanuja , Rai Bharti Manoranjan
Published: January 2025

Non‐orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), as a multiple access scheme, is foreseen as an emerging technology in enhancing the achievable sum rate of indoor downlink multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) visible light communication (VLC) networks. Also, power allocation scheme plays a vital role in achieving these enhanced achievable sum rates. In literature, there are multiple power allocation schemes available such as gain ratio power allocation (GRPA), normalized gain difference power allocation (NGDPA), normalized logarithmic gain ratio power allocation (NLGRPA), and so forth. In this paper, an improved power allocation scheme has been proposed, which is based on the ratio of logarithmic sum channel gains of users as well as on the user index in the decoding order. In the proposed power allocation scheme, multiple transmitting light emitting diodes (LEDs) and multiple users are considered along with their optical channel information required for data communication. The transmitting LEDs are fixed on the room ceiling at optimal positions. The optimal positions of LEDs are selected by using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The simulation results depict that the proposed power allocation scheme with optimal LED positions can achieve a performance gain of 5% or higher in the achievable sum rate over NLGRPA scheme when the number of users present in the room is more than five, and even when the user location is far from the LED. Thus, the proposed power allocation scheme with optimal LED positions achieves significant performance improvement when compared with existing power allocation schemes for NOMA‐based MIMO‐VLC networks for randomly located users in indoor scenario.
Initial Stand Volume and Residual Live Trees Drive Deadwood Carbon Stocks in Fire and Harvest Disturbed Boreal Forests at North‐Central Alberta
Authors: Osei Richard , Nock Charles A.
Published: January 2025

Retention forestry involves leaving single or groups of unharvested trees within harvest areas. Patch retention, which resembles structures such as unburned patches remaining after wildfire, is one practice implemented within the framework of Ecosystem‐based Forest Management (EBM), which seeks to use natural forests as a model and minimize differences in natural and managed forests. Despite the widespread adoption of patch retention practices, few comparisons of the attributes of postfire and postharvest islands, or their drivers, have been made. Given the importance of deadwood in forests to a variety of ecosystem functions, we sought to compare the local bioenvironmental drivers of deadwood (snags, CWD) C stocks in islands remnants in postfire and postharvest forests a decade after disturbance. We also determined whether their relative effects are consistent across deadwood types (snags, CWD) and disturbance regimes using generalized additive mixed models with study site as random factor in all cases. A candidate model with initial stand volume (ISV), basal area of live trees, and size heterogeneity of live trees best predicted snag and CWD C stocks in both disturbance types, but their relative importance was inconsistent. The ISV had significantly (p < 0.05) positive effects on C stocks in snags and CWD across disturbance types, but its relative effects was higher in retention islands than fire islands. In all cases, stand density of remnant live trees was negatively related to deadwood C stocks. Conversely, the size heterogeneity of remnant live trees significantly boosted deadwood C stocks in fire islands but not in harvest islands. The results imply consideration for the stocking level of candidate forest areas for retention patches as this drives the evolution of deadwood accumulation in the postharvest islands.
Study of Mitogenomes Provides Implications for the Phylogenetics and Evolution of the Infraorder Muscomorpha in Diptera
Authors: Yuan Huan , Fu Wenbo , He Shulin , Li Tingjing , Chen Bin
Published: January 2025

The Muscomorpha is one of the most species‐rich brachyceran groups in Diptera, with many species serving as important disease vectors; however, its high‐level phylogenetic relationships have long been controversial and unsolved. This study comparatively analyzed the characteristics of mitogenomes of 131 species that represent 18 superfamilies in Muscomorpha, in which mitogenomes of 16 species have been newly sequenced and annotated, demonstrating that their gene composition, order, AT bias, length variation, and codon usage are consistent with documented dipteran mitogenomes. The phylogenetic topologies demonstrated that the robustness of Muscomorpha and major clades within Muscomorpha are monophyletic: Cyclorrhapha, Schizophora, and Calyptratae. A clade of Empidoidea were recovered as the sister group to Cyclorrhapha. Within Cyclorrhapha, Platypezoidea and Syrphoidea were sequentially placed as basal groups of the Cyclorrhapha. The remaining cyclorrhaph superfamilies gathered as two main clades. Ephydroidea were, in most cases, placed as the sister group to Calyptratae. Within Calyptratae, Hippoboscoidea were sister to an assemblage of lineages composed of an Oestroid grade and Muscoidea. The Muscomorpha was proposed to originate in the early Jurassic, and the main clade diversified near the Cretaceous–Paleogene extinction event, estimated using the MCMCtree and six fossil calibration points. The ancestral area of origin and geographic range of Muscomorpha was deduced to be the Palaearctic region with 56.9% probability using the RASP software based on a dated tree.
Similar Spatial Expression of Immune‐Related Proteins in SARS‐CoV‐2 Placentitis and Chronic Histiocytic Intervillositis
Authors: Broekhuizen Michelle , van der Hoorn Marie‐Louise , Vadgama Disha , Eikmans Michael , Neecke Bojou J. , Duvekot Johannes J. , Fraaij Pieter , Reiss Irwin K. M. , Mustafa Dana A. M. , van der Meeren Lotte E. , Schoenmakers Sam
Published: January 2025

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection in the placenta can lead to fetal distress and demise, characterized by severe trophoblast necrosis, chronic histiocytic intervillositis (CHI), and massive perivillous fibrin deposition. We aimed to uncover spatial immune‐related protein changes in SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis compared with CHI placentas and uncomplicated pregnancies to gain insight into the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Placentas were retrospectively collected from cases with SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis resulting in fetal distress/demise (n = 9), CHI (n = 9), and uncomplicated term controls (n = 9). The expression of 53 immune‐related proteins was quantified using GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler in three separate compartments: villi (fetal compartment), intervillous space, and decidua (both maternal compartments). Compared with controls, SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis and CHI both displayed differentially expressed proteins in the intervillous space only, including upregulation of myeloid markers (e.g., CD40, CD11c, CD68, CD163). Specifically, SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis was associated with reduced expression of multiple apoptotic proteins (e.g., BAD, BIM, BLXL, BCL6). In conclusion, SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis and CHI are associated with enhanced myeloid cell infiltration into the intervillous space, but not in the decidua and villi. The more prominently reduced apoptosis‐related protein expression in SARS‐CoV‐2 placentitis may lead to an exaggerated immune response, causing acute placental dysfunction and fetal demise.
Manganese‐Catalyzed Selective ortho‐Deuteration of Aromatic Amidines with D₂O
Authors: Bai Jian‐Fei , Hu Hao , Liu Yanran , Jiang Zhi‐Jiang , Chen Jia , Gao Zhanghua
Published: January 2025

We report a manganese‐catalyzed ortho‐selective deuteration of aromatic amidines using D2O as the deuterium source. The reaction, catalyzed by Mn(CO)5Br in the presence of NaOAc as an additive, proceeds with high regioselectivity, achieving efficient deuterium incorporation at the ortho‐position with excellent yields. The reaction scope was extended to a wide range of substituted aromatic amidines, demonstrating consistently high levels of deuterium incorporation and broad substrate compatibility. Furthermore, the method was successfully scaled up to gram‐scale, and the resulting deuterated products were subsequently transformed into heterocycles, including triazoles and imidazoles.
Unifying biology of neurodegeneration in lysosomal storage diseases
Authors: Ludlaim Anna M. , Waddington Simon N. , McKay Tristan R.
Published: January 2025

There are currently at least 70 characterised lysosomal storage diseases (LSD) resultant from inherited single‐gene defects. Of these, at least 30 present with central nervous system (CNS) neurodegeneration and overlapping aetiology. Substrate accumulation and dysfunctional neuronal lysosomes are common denominator, but how variants in 30 different genes converge on this central cellular phenotype is unclear. Equally unresolved is how the accumulation of a diverse spectrum of substrates in the neuronal lysosomes results in remarkably similar neurodegenerative outcomes. Conversely, how is it that many other monogenic LSDs cause only visceral disease? Lysosomal substance accumulation in LSDs with CNS neurodegeneration (nLSD) includes lipofuscinoses, mucopolysaccharidoses, sphingolipidoses and glycoproteinoses. Here, we review the latest discoveries in the fundamental biology of four classes of nLSDs, comparing and contrasting new insights into disease mechanism with emerging evidence of unifying convergence.
Speech, Language and Non‐verbal Communication in CLN2 and CLN3 Batten Disease
Authors: Morison Lottie D. , Whiteman Ineka T. , Vogel Adam P. , Tilbrook Lisa , Fahey Michael C. , Braden Ruth , Bredebusch Joanna , Hildebrand Michael S. , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Morgan Angela T.
Published: January 2025

CLN2 and CLN3 diseases, the most common types of Batten disease (also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis), are childhood dementias associated with progressive loss of speech, language and feeding skills. Here we delineate speech, language, non‐verbal communication and feeding phenotypes in 33 individuals (19 females) with a median age of 9.5 years (range 3–28 years); 16 had CLN2 and 17 CLN3 disease; 8/15 (53%) participants with CLN2 and 8/17 (47%) participants with CLN3 disease had speech and language impairments prior to genetic diagnosis. At the time of study all participants, bar one, had language impairments. The remaining participant with typical language was tested at age 3 years, following pre‐symptomatic enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) from age 9 months. CLN2 and CLN3 disease had different profiles. For CLN2 disease, all affected individuals showed language impairment with dysarthria; older individuals with classical disease progressively became non‐verbal. For CLN3 disease, the presentation was more heterogeneous. Speech impairment was evident early in the disease course, with dysarthria (13/15, 87%), often manifesting as neurogenic stuttering (5/15, 33%). Participants with CLN2 disease had comparable expressive and receptive language skills (p > 0.99), yet participants with CLN3 disease had stronger expressive language than receptive language skills (p = 0.004). Speech, cognitive and language impairment and adaptive behaviour showed progressive decline in both diseases. Individuals with pre‐symptomatic ERT or atypical CLN2 disease were less impaired. Challenging behaviours were common in CLN3 (11/17, 65%), but less frequent in CLN2 (4/16, 25%) disease. Individuals with Batten disease require tailored speech therapy incorporating communication partner training utilising environment adaptations and informal communication behaviours.
Identification and quantitative trait locus mapping of Tartary buckwheat pre‐harvest sprouting
Authors: Zhu Liwei , Lv Yong , Shi Taoxiong , Huang Juan , Du Qianqian , Tang Guohong , Sun Genlou , Prince Odika , Chen Qingfu
Published: January 2025

Background

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tartaricum) is particularly vulnerable to pre‐harvest sprouting (PHS) due to its extended flowering and fruiting cycle, especially during periods of prolonged rainfall. This susceptibility has significant adverse effects on yield, quality and post‐harvest processing. In this study, a recombinant inbred lines (RILs) population (XJ‐RILs) was developed from a cross between the PHS‐susceptible Tartary buckwheat variety ‘Xiaomiqiao’ (female parent) and the highly PHS‐resistant variety ‘Jinqiaomai 2’ (male parent). Key traits, including germination percentage, germination energy, germination index, field PHS (PHS‐F) and simulated PHS (PHS‐S), were evaluated, and a quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping analysis was performed.

Results

(i) PHS‐S was strongly and significantly correlated with PHS‐F. (ii) A total of 11 QTLs associated with seed germination and 14 QTLs related to PHS were identified. Notably, the major QTL cluster qPHS8‐1 was consistently detected and mapped within the interval of 8.53–9.65 Mbp on chromosome Ft8. (iii) Genotyping of 221 XJ‐RILs across eight chromosomes revealed five residual heterozygous lines carrying a heterozygous interval of qPHS8‐1 cluster, with inbred line R56 being particularly suited for the fine mapping of qPHS8‐1.

Conclusion

The PHS‐S test, conducted on entire Tartary buckwheat spikes, is an effective and comprehensive method for assessing PHS resistance in this crop. QTL mapping identified qPHS8‐1 as a major locus for PHS resistance, and inbred line R56 offers a promising resource for further fine mapping of this cluster. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Study and Use of Spectral Symbol Properties for Isogeometric Matrices on Trimmed Geometries
Authors: Garoni Carlo , Manni Carla , Pelosi Francesca , Speleers Hendrik
Published: January 2025

We study the spectral behavior of (sequences of) matrices resulting from immersed isogeometric discretizations on trimmed geometries. They enjoy an asymptotic spectral distribution, described by a (spectral) symbol, and we discuss some properties of this symbol. In particular, we show that the structure and properties of the symbol are completely analogous to the untrimmed case when a suitable natural restriction of the parametric domain is considered. This spectral knowledge can be exploited to identify potentially fast preconditioners for the considered immersed discretization matrices and we propose a specific CG preconditioner based on the symbol. We also provide numerical experiments that support the correctness of the theoretical results and illustrate the performance of the proposed preconditioner.
The Mental Health Literacy and Stigma Scale—Bilingual Cultural Adaptation: Validity and Reliability Pilot Study in Nursing Students
Authors: Nogueira Maria José , Sas Síria , Rodríguez Lucía , Carbonero Andrea , Bello Uxía , Nascimento Leandro , Mendonça Susana , Teixeira Delfina
Published: January 2025

Aim

To describe and evaluate the psychometric properties (reliability and construct validity) of the Mental Health Literacy and Stigma Scale‐Bilingual (MHLaSS‐B).

Design

This is a methodological study designed in a convenience sample of 271 Portuguese and Spanish nursing students who volunteered to participate in the research.

Methods

The Mental Health Literacy and Stigma Scale‐Bilingual version (Spanish and Portuguese) was used for data collection. MHLaSS‐B intercultural adaptation followed three stages: translation, back‐translation and pilot test and the thinking‐aloud techniques. Content validity was performed by Content Validity Index and Modified Kappa statistic. Construct validity and reliability tests were performed. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Data were analysed using SPSS programs. Ethics committee approval and permission from the institution involved were obtained.

Results

The MHLaSS‐B has 28 items of one‐factor structure. Cronbach's alpha was 0.702. The cumulative variance explained was 23.14%. Respondents show High literacy and Low Stigma (M = 23.4).

Patient or Public Contributions

The availability of the MHLaSS‐B allows the general population of Portugal and Spain to have a versatile instrument for assessing stigma and MHL. The MHLaSS‐B presents good psychometric properties, and it can be a useful tool for novice health workers to better understand the aspects they should pay attention to manage MHL and stigma successfully. The MHLaSS‐B is a reliable, adaptable instrument that is now available and it can be used in investigation, teaching and clinical practice.
Impact of Pharmacovigilance Interventions Targeting Fluoroquinolones on Antibiotic Use in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
Authors: Lasys Tomas , Santa‐Ana‐Tellez Yared , Siiskonen Satu J. , Groenwold Rolf H. H. , Gardarsdottir Helga
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Fluoroquinolones are antibiotics associated with adverse events that prompted the European Medicines Agency to implement risk minimization measures (RMMs) in 2018/19 and 2020. Our aim is to assess the RMMs' impact on antibiotic prescriptions in primary care during 2014–2023.

Methods

We assessed antibiotic prescriptions using CPRD GOLD (the United Kingdom, UK) and PHARMO (the Netherlands, NL). Prescriptions were assessed for fluoroquinolones and alternative antibiotics. The impact of RMMs on prescribing was assessed with interrupted time series (ITS) using monthly prescription rates per 10 000 person‐years (MPTPY).

Results

Between 2014 and 2023, we identified cohorts of 4.0 (UK) and 0.9 million (NL) antibiotic users. Fluoroquinolones were prescribed to initiate 1.5% (UK) to 5.8% (NL) of the treatment episodes.

Fluoroquinolone prescribing before the RMMs slowly decreased in the UK and was stable in the NL. The 2018/19 RMMs were associated with a steady downward post‐RMMs trend in incident use of fluoroquinolones (MPTPY −0.7 [UK] and −0.8 [NL]) and opposite changes after 2020 RMMs (MPTPY 0.6 [UK] and 1.8 [NL]).

The 2018/2019 RMMs were linked with increasing trends for other antibacterials (J01XX) in both countries and other beta‐lactam antibacterials in the UK, but most antibiotics had decreasing trends post‐RMMs in both countries. After the 2020 RMMs, some antibiotic groups showed upward trends.

Conclusion

The risk minimization measures in 2018/2019 were associated with a moderate decrease in fluoroquinolone prescribing, with no further decrease after 2020 RMMs. There was no sustained increase in other antibiotic prescribing, suggesting that overprescribing was negligible as an unintended impact of RMMs.
Study on the Impact of Reducing Aluminium Foil Thickness on the Barrier Properties of Retort Pouches During Shelf Life: Simulated Physical Stress Considering Distribution Environment
Authors: Kim Jung Min , Park Hyun Jin , Bae Hojae
Published: January 2025

Retort pouches, valued for their lightness, efficient heat transfer and user convenience, are globally popular. Addressing environmental concerns associated with retort packaging involves efforts to reduce materials and greenhouse gases. We aimed to cut the aluminium foil layer's thickness in retort pouches from 9 to 7 μm. Despite concerns about quality degradation, tests, including crumpling and oxygen permeability measurements, revealed minimal differences between 9‐ and 7‐μm aluminium foil pouches during sterilization and storage. The observed behaviour may be linked to the foil's flexibility. Efforts to decrease foil thickness align with a broader plan to mitigate environmental impact. The study indicates that a reduction from 9 to 7 μm in aluminium foil thickness maintains performance integrity underscoring the feasibility of more eco‐friendly packaging strategies in the context of retort pouches.
Optimizing Medical Pretreatment for Balloon Pulmonary Angioplasty: Overshoot or Stride Toward Optimal Multimodal Treatment
Authors: Staal D. P. , van Leusden F. J. , van Thor M. C. J. , Peper J. , Rensing B. J. M. W. , van Kuijk J. P. , Mulder B. J. M. , van den Heuvel D. , Boomars K. A. , Boerman S. , Mager J. J. , Post M. C.
Published: January 2025

In patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) who undergo balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA), pretreatment with PH‐targeted medical therapy may be beneficial to improve clinical parameters and pulmonary hemodynamics. This study aims to describe clinical results of PH‐targeted therapy prior to BPA. All consecutive patients with CTEPH who underwent BPA treatment were selected from our CTEPH database. Medical treatment strategy, clinical parameters, and pulmonary hemodynamics at time of diagnosis and at the first BPA were analyzed. In total 92 CTEPH patients who started BPA treatment (64.1% women; 60.4 ± 14.1 years of age; 62.0% NYHA FC III/IV) were included. Most patients received dual oral PH‐targeted medical therapy (68.5%) prior to BPA. Between diagnosis and first BPA (median time 13.9 [7.5–30.7] months) significant improvements were observed in patients treated with PH‐targeted medical therapy for both clinical (6MWD: +28.2 m [5.1–51.3], log NTproBNP: −0.4 pg/ml [−0.8 to −0.1]) as well as pulmonary hemodynamic parameters (mPAP: −6.5 mmHg [−8.5 to −4.5], CO: +0.6 L/min [0.2–1.0] and PVR: −2.8 WU [−3.5 to −2.1]). The overall complication rate per BPA (out of a total of 441 procedures) was 15.0% for patients on monotherapy and 14.9% for those on dual/triple PH‐targeted medical therapy. No severe complications occurred. In conclusion, pretreatment with PH‐targeted medical therapy prior to BPA results in an improvement in clinical‐ and pulmonary hemodynamic parameters.
Nutritional and Bioactive Compounds of Novel Protein‐Based Ingredients From Industrial Hempseed Hearts
Authors: Chen Bingqi , Dia Vermont P.
Published: January 2025

Defatted hempseed obtained after oil extraction has the potential to be rich protein sources with bioactivity. Three different enzymes, including bromelain, Alcalase, and trypsin, which have been widely used in the food industry were used for enzymatic hydrolysis. This study aimed to investigate nutritional, anti‐nutritional, and bioactive properties contained in hempseed protein‐based ingredients (HPBI). The results demonstrated that HPBI and their enzymatic hydrolysates have high in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD) (61.91%–99.99%) and low amounts of antinutritional factors such as phytic acid and trypsin inhibitors. In addition, hydrolysates of HPBI contain relatively high amounts of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols (1.90–4.63 mg/g), flavonoids (0.22–2.03 mg/g), tannins (10.44–34.84 mg/g), and carbohydrates (40.18–228.07 mg/g), which could contribute to human health promotion. Moreover, three different HPBIs contain high contents of essential amino acids (over 228.1 mg/g protein), indicating high protein quality. Our study suggested that the whole HPBI and its hydrolysates are rich protein ingredients with promising nutritional value and bioactive compounds.
Utilizing Tissues Self‐Assembled in Fiber Optic‐Based “Chinese Guzheng Strings” for Contractility Sensing and Drug Efficacy Evaluation: A Practical Approach
Authors: Li Tianliang , Wan Zhongjun , Wang Qian'ao , Qiao Feng , Pan Ganlin , Zhao Chen , Zhu Yongwen , Zhou Haotian , Tan Yuegang , Zhou Zude , Zhang Donghui
Published: January 2025

Recent advances in drug design and compound synthesis have highlighted the increasing need for effective methods of toxicity evaluation. A specialized force sensor, known as the light wavelength‐encoded “Chinese guzheng” is developed. This innovative sensor is equipped with optical fiber strings and utilizes a wavelength‐encoded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) that is chemically etched to reduce its diameter. This design allows the sensor to detect minimal forces as low as l µN. This sensor is successfully applied to monitor human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived human‐engineered heart tissue (hEHT) models that can self‐assemble and contact optical fiber‐based strings. The sensor detects micro newton contraction forces in real‐time by measuring the wavelength drift resulting from hEHT contractions. In addition, the sensor is precise and durable, exhibiting a fatigue resistance of up to 800 000 cycles, making it suitable for long‐term monitoring. The device effectively measured the contractile force of the hEHTs under various physiological conditions, including natural contraction, electrical stimulation, and stretching. Moreover, multichannel detection enables the study and demonstration of short‐ and long‐term effectiveness of multiple drugs. This breakthrough sensor addresses the critical need for high‐precision real‐time monitoring in drug evaluation and provides a solid foundation for screening drugs to treat cardiomyopathy.
Novel Photodynamic Inactivation Strategy for Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 on Eggshells: Exploiting the Antimicrobial Potential of Curcumin and Carvacrol
Authors: Keyvan Erhan , Donmez Soner , Kahraman Hatice Ahu , Tutun Hidayet , Calişkan Zuhal , Rugji Jerina , Keyvan Nilay , Şen Erdi , Gumus Hidir
Published: January 2025

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a new and promising strategy for eliminating foodborne pathogenic bacteria in food preservation, reducing associated health risks for consumers. This study aimed to develop an innovative PDI‐based system to inactivate Salmonella Enteritidis PT4 on eggshells. The system includes 405 nm light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and the application of curcumin or carvacrol as photosensitizers. The antibacterial activity of the system was investigated in eggshells inoculated with S. Enteritidis PT4 at different temperatures (4, 25, and 37°C) and exposure times (15, 30, and 45 min). Carvacrol + LEDs application was completely inhibited S. Enteritdis PT4 at 4 (after 30 min), 25, and 37°C at the 45th min. Curcumin + LED completely inhibited bacterial growth after 45 min at 4 and 25°C. The results showed that simultaneous use of carvacrol or curcumin with LEDs at various temperatures exhibited significant antibacterial activity against the bacteria depending on the exposure time. The application of curcumin or carvacrol sourced via PDI in the originally developed system resulted in any significant changes in egg quality parameters and sensory properties. This study demonstrated that PDI‐based system using curcumin or carvacrol as photosensitizers could be a potential tool for decontamination of eggs contaminated with S. Enteritidis PT4.
Evaluating the In Vitro Anthelmintic Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) Against the Adult Stages of Fasciola hepatica
Authors: Abdelhamid Mahmoud , Fouad Dalia , Alian Abdallah , Nasr Asmaa A. , Abd‐Allah H. , Farouk Mohamed , Abd elmaleck Barakat Shehata , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Batiha Gaber El‐Saber , Anwar Fatma A. S.
Published: January 2025

Background

Fascioliasis represents one of the most significant parasitic and foodborne zoonotic diseases in the world. Resistance to currently deployed human and veterinary flukicides is a growing health problem. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO‐NPs) have developed enormous importance in nanomedicine. The current study aims to evaluate the flukicide activity of ZnO‐NPs on the adult stages of Fasciola hepatica, in vitro assay.

Methods

Mature flukes of F. hepatica were collected from the biliary tracts of cattle liver from the main slaughterhouses in Aswan Governorate, Egypt. The co‐precipitation process was utilized to create ZnO‐NPs. The adult active flukes of F. hepatica (n = 6) were transferred in Petri dishes (triplicates) containing different concentrations of ZnO‐NPs (0.5, 0.10 and 0.12 mg/mL), with simultaneous maintenance of control in only PBS. The treated and control groups of flukes were maintained inside an incubator at 37°C ± 1°C. Mortality and paralysis of the flukes were observed. The adult flukes were picked up for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination from the control medium, and those exposed to the highest effective concentration of ZnO‐NPs. ZnO‐NPs showed dose‐dependent flukicide efficacy against the adult flukes.

Results

At 0.12 mg/mL concentration of ZnO‐NPs, the mortality of flukes was attained early in 4.05 ± 0.033 h. The photomicrographs obtained by SEM of the flukes revealed that ZnO‐NPs (0.12 mg/mL) had a potent effect on the integument surface and genital system of F. hepatica. Most of the tegument was damaged with complete erosion and loss of the spines and papillae. Furthermore, a severe rupture in the genital system causes the uterus to burst and releases eggs through the genital pore.

Conclusions

Hence, it could be concluded that ZnO‐NPs performed effective anthelmintic activity against the adult stages of F. hepatica, in vitro. The results of the present study recommend the use of ZnO‐NPs as new preparations with anthelmintic activity.
Implementation teledermatologischer Konsile am Universitätsklinikum Leipzig
Authors: Triebswetter Susanne , Simon Jan C. , Seitz Anna-Theresa
Published: January 2025

Hintergrund

Zahlreiche Patient:innen, die in eine Klinik stationär aufgenommen werden, weisen nebenbefundlich Hautveränderungen auf. Am Universitätsklinikum Leipzig AöR wurden in einem Jahr ca. 800 Konsile durch die Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie beantwortet.

Ziel der Arbeit

Es erfolgten die Implementation einer teledermatologischen Konsillösung und anschließend die retrospektive Evaluation dieser und der daraus resultierenden Zufriedenheit von konsilstellenden und konsilbeantwortenden Ärzt:innen.

Material und Methoden

Es erfolgte eine Auswertung aller Konsilanfragen, die mittels Store-and-Forward-Technologie über die Fotodokumentations-App imitoCAM®-App (imito AG Zürich/Schweiz) und das Krankenhausinformationssystem SAP® (SAP Deutschland SE & Co. KG Walldorf/Deutschland) zwischen 01.02.2023 und 31.07.2023 beantwortet wurden, sowie von Fragebögen zur Zufriedenheit, die nach erfolgtem Konsil den beteiligten Ärzt:innen zugeschickt wurden.

Ergebnisse

In die Auswertung gingen 419 Konsile ein, davon wurden 90 teledermatologisch beantwortet. Die Konsilärzt:innen gaben an, dass in 92 % der Fälle eine rein telemedizinische Behandlung erfolgen konnte, und 90,9 % der konsilstellenden Ärzt:innen beurteilten die technische Umsetzung als gut bis sehr gut, und 47,5 % der Konsilärzt:innen gaben eine Zeitersparnis von mindestens 30–60 min im Vergleich zur Beantwortung von Bett‑/Ambulanzkonsilen an.

Diskussion

Unsere Untersuchung zeigt das enorme Potenzial der Teledermatologie auch im stationären Setting. Die Implementation von Telekonsilen ermöglicht eine effizientere Konsilbeantwortung, reduziert zeit- und kostenintensive Transporte in die Hautklinikambulanz und bietet Patient:innen eine komfortablere dermatologische Begutachtung mit vermindertem Infektionsrisiko.

Graphic abstract
Ethisch verantwortungsvoll und rechtssicher entscheiden – Rechtliche und ethische Voraussetzungen und Anforderungen an die partizipative Entscheidungsfindung
Authors: Tietz Kimberley , Stulik Hannah , Nordhausen Thomas , Luderer Christiane , Steckelberg Anke , Schmidt Heike , Rosenau Henning
Published: January 2025

Die Verwirklichung von Patientenautonomie in medizinischen Entscheidungssituationen ist eine zentrale
Frage in der Gesundheitsversorgung, der sich das Medizinrecht und die Medizinethik aus jeweils unterschiedlichen
Perspektiven annähern. Um eine rechtssichere und gleichzeitig ethisch verantwortungsvolle Entscheidungsfindung
zu gewährleisten, müssen beide Perspektiven miteinander in Einklang gebracht werden. Wie diese
Verknüpfung mithilfe des Prinzips der Partizipativen Entscheidungsfindung (PEF) erfolgen kann, wird
im vorliegenden Beitrag beleuchtet.
Role of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in alleviation of tinnitus in normal hearing subjects
Authors: Aly Maha Abdelgaber A. , Ramadan Enas Mostafa O. , Eloseily Amira Mohammad
Published: January 2025

Background

Subjective tinnitus is characterized by perception of sound in the absence of any external or internal acoustic stimuli. Many approaches have been developed over the years to treat tinnitus (medical and nonmedical). However, no consensus has been reached on the optimal therapeutic approach. Electrical nerve stimulation targeting peripheral auditory pathways presents a promising area of investigation for the treatment of tinnitus. Non-invasive transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve has been introduced and studied but its success rate varies and conflicting results have been reported. In this study we aim to assess the role of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in alleviation of tinnitus in normal hearing subjects and to study the different factors that may affect the degree of alleviation of tinnitus.

Methods

The study group consisted of 64 subjects (38 male and 26 female). The age ranged between 20 and 60 years. All of them suffering from subjective tinnitus. Assessment of tinnitus loudness analyzed by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) which was applied before and directly after TENS stimulation.

Results

There is a statistically significant difference in tinnitus loudness before and after TEN stimulation as assessed by VAS. 45 out of 64 (70.31%) patients had improvement after TENS, from them nine patients had a complete reduction of tinnitus. There is no statistically significant relation between the studied variables and the degree of tinnitus reduction.

Conclusion

ta-VNS is an effective treatment of subjective tinnitus but we could not assess for how long this residual inhibition persists due to lack of long term follow up. However, it is difficult to decide who might benefit from ta-VNS, patients with unilateral tinnitus on right ear and those with whistling sound have more reduction in tinnitus loudness than others.