bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In silico analysis of trisindoline 1 as tyrosinase inhibitors
Authors: Sukma C M , Nurhayati A P D , Santoso M
Published: December 2023

Hyperpigmentation is darkening condition in the skin area due to excessive melanin production. This condition interferes with skin aesthetics and can increase the production of reactive oxygen species which can cause skin damage. The widely targeted approach to treat hyperpigmentation is inhibition of tyrosinase. Trisindoline is a compound synthesized from the marine sponge Hyrtios altum and has high bioactivity potential. Trisindoline itself has been shown in vitro to inhibit tyrosinase. Thus, trisindoline was synthesized into four derivatives, one of which was trisindoline 1 with the addition of a nitro group. This paper aims to determine the potency of trisindoline 1 as tyrosinase inhibitors and then compared with commercial tyrosinase inhibitors, kojic acid and arbutin, in silico. In silico analysis was carried out by molecular docking of trisindoline 1 to tyrosinase using AutoDock Vina. Kojic acid was used as the native ligand and arbutin as the control ligand. Visualization of molecular docking results using BIOVIA Discovery Studio. The binding affinity score obtained indicates that trisindoline 1 has the lowest binding score. It is -9.2 kcal/mol to the tyrosinase enzyme. These results indicate that trisindoline 1 has the potential as a candidate for anti-hyperpigmentation agents through the mechanism of tyrosinase inhibitors.
Effect of coconut water on in vitro propagation of Hylocereus costaricensus and acclimatization
Authors: Norrizah J S , Aisyah M N Siti , Wan Razarinah W A R
Published: December 2023

Red-purple dragon fruit, Hylocereus costaricensis (Web.) Britton & Rose belongs to Cactaceae family. Due to its high nutraceutical ingredients has attracted a lot of attention to alternative propagate this species through in vitro culture technique. This research was aimed to analysed the effects of different concentrations of coconut water on the growth of H. costaricensis stem explants in Murashige and Skoog (MS) and Vacin and Went (VW) media. Then, combination of soil and coconut coir or coconut husk were used as planting media during acclimatization was investigated. Findings showed that in MS and VW supplemented with 5% coconut water formed 100% of shoot and root. VW media supplemented with 5% of coconut water yielded the highest average number of shoots (6.28 ± 0.48) and the longest shoot (3.85 ± 0.23 cm). The longest root (7.00 ± 0.66 cm) was observed on MS media supplemented with 5% coconut water whereas VW media supplemented with 5% coconut water produced the highest average number of roots (2.40 ± 0.19). Addition of coconut water can stimulate better shoot and root formation as it contains naturally plant growth regulators. During acclimatization, combination of soil and coconut coir showed the highest percentage (100%) of survival rate.
Multifunctional optical logic device based on nanoscale rectangular ring resonator
Authors: Chai Junxiong , Xie Yiyuan , Tan Jing , Jiang Xiao , Chen Yan
Published: December 2023

Integrated optical logic devices are essential building blocks for implementing all-optical arithmetic and logic unit. In this paper, an ultra-compact multifunctional optical logic device consisting of a rectangular ring resonator coupled with two parallel metal–insulator–metal waveguides is presented. The transmission characteristics of the structure are analyzed in detail via temporal coupled-mode theory. The finite-difference time-domain simulation results reveal that multiple logic functions can be implemented with the aid of the wavelength division multiplexing technique at different output ports. Specifically, all seven basic types of logic gates, half-adder, half-subtractor, and 2*4 decoder can be implemented by monitoring the transmission of through and drop ports at different wavelengths. More importantly, among these functions, six logic gates (OR, XNOR, NAND, NOR, XOR, and AND) and half-adder functions can be performed simultaneously; the NOT logic operation is performed with controllable output ports and selectable working wavelengths; the half-subtractor and 2*4 decoder functions can be operated simultaneously. The proposed logic device is characterized by a small area overhead, multifunctionality, fast response time, and ultrahigh-speed information processing. It may potentially be applied in on-chip universal and parallel photonic computing units.
What next for marine ecosystem management in Vietnam: assessment of coastal economy, climate change, and policy implication
Authors: Giang Pham Quy , Khanal Rajendra
Published: December 2023

Vietnam is a coastal country with a coastline stretching more than 3,260 km. Marine resources are important for the development of Vietnam. In Vietnamese seas, there are about 20 typical ecosystems spreading over 1 million square kilometers in the East Sea consisting of mangrove forests, coral reefs, lagoons, seagrasses in intertidal areas and estuaries, and living species in 155,000 hectares, 1,300 square kilometers, 500 square kilometers, 16,000 hectares, and 11,000 living species, respectively. At present, the impact of climate change, socio-economic development, and environmental pollution are considered as the main causes of degradation of Vietnam’s marine ecosystems. This paper presents and discusses the pressure of socio-economic activities including industry, tourism, marine transportation and services, aquaculture and fishery on marine ecosystems. In Vietnam, compared to the early 2000s a total of 12% of coral reefs, and 48% of other coral reefs are vulnerable to degradation. So far, about 100 species of marine life in Vietnam are at risk of being threatened due to over-exploitation and fishing. The seagrass-bed ecosystem is currently being degraded with only over 5,580 ha remaining. In some areas, such as Cat Ba, Ha Long, and Quang Nam, seagrass beds have almost no chance to recover naturally due to serious impacts from tourism and aquaculture activities. From the findings, orientations that aim at effective management and protection of marine ecosystems to cope with adverse impacts of anthropogenic activities, climate change, and the pressure of socioeconomic development were proposed.
Characterisation and evaluation of the harmonic content of involute gear surface deviations
Authors: Reavie Tom , Frazer Robert , Przyklenk Anita , Stein Martin
Published: December 2023

Gears are fundamental precision components that are crucial to many industries, including the wind energy sector. They are traditionally analysed using profile and helix line measurements but this does not consider the majority of the contacting surface with intricate surface variations that dictate functional performance. Practical measurement and evaluation of involute gear surfaces remain underexplored. This paper uses the Fourier and wavelet transforms to evaluate measured gear surface deviation harmonic content for a single trace, a trace set, and surface analysis and describes the utility of each. The methods are first demonstrated with synthetic data and then with measured data, then the measured data is simulated in a quasi-static FE tooth contact analysis, which yields insights not solely gleaned from harmonic analysis. The uncertainty of harmonic content analysis is to be established in future work and how that effects the uncertainty of simulated functional performance should be investigated.
Mobile applications to prescribe physical exercise in frail older adults: review of the available tools in app stores
Authors: Soto-Bagaria Luis , Eis Sophie , Pérez Laura Mónica , Villa-García Lorena , de Solà-Morales Oriol , Carrion Carme , Giné-Garriga Maria , Inzitari Marco
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Different remote interventions, such as applications (apps), have been used to continue promoting healthy ageing and preventing disability during the COVID-19 pandemic. The growing trend of apps in health is exponential and may facilitate scaling up physical activity prescription. Numerous tools are available, but little is known regarding their appropriateness, validation and recommendation, especially for frail older adults.

Methods

In-house, we developed an application that makes both the Apple app Store and the Google Play Store searchable using topic-related keywords and facilitates the extraction of basic app-information of the search results. The study was aimed at apps available to an English-speaking market. The resulting apps were filtered using various inclusion and exclusion criteria. The resultant apps underwent a more in-depth characterisation and searches for scientific publications on each app website and PubMed.

Results

From an initial search result of >2,800 apps, 459 met the initial inclusion criteria. After a more in-depth review of their features, 39 apps remained for possible app in older frail patients. After testing them, 22 apps were excluded. Seventeen apps fit the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were deemed appropriate after peer review. Of these, only one app, Vivifrail, had any type of publication/published evidence.

Conclusion

Apps can be valuable tool in prescribing exercise for frail older adults living in the community. However, few apps seem useful on a large scale, and there is limited evidence to support their effectiveness. It is important to invest in adapting Information and Communication Technologies to this population group.
Stepping into the shoes of older people: a scoping review of simulating ageing experiences for healthcare professional students
Authors: Nelson Elaine E C , Spence Andrew D , Gormley Gerard J
Published: December 2023

Background

Ageing simulation suits and equipment give healthcare professional (HCP) students the opportunity to experience what it might feel like to be an older person with age-related disability or illness. Ageing simulation experiences, where students complete activities of daily living (ADL) tasks, aim to reproduce the challenges an older person may face.

Objectives

We undertook a scoping literature review to establish, from the evidence base, what is known about simulating ageing experiences for HCP students and its impact on attitudes towards older patients.

Methods

We applied Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping literature review framework to achieve relevant articles. Four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) were searched resulting in 114 citations. After screening and applying our exclusion criteria, 14 articles were selected for inclusion.

Results

Fifty percent of studies were mixed-methods, 35% quasi-experimental, 7% quantitative and 7% qualitative. Two types of simulation experience were identified: (i) workshop based and (ii) ageing games. Simulated impairments included vision, hearing and mobility issues. Most common ADLs simulated were managing medications, finances and functional ability. The majority of studies reported a positive impact on knowledge, attitudes and empathy towards older people.

Conclusions

Teaching in Care of Older People is important in HCP undergraduate curricula and should be a positive experience promoting successful ageing while raising awareness of ageism. Ageing suits have a positive impact on students’ attitudes and empathic skills towards older people. Future research should include interprofessional education with HCP students learning together throughout undergraduate training.
Implementation of pharmacist-led services for sexual and gender minorities: A multisite descriptive report
Authors: Phan Tam , Astle Kevin N , Mills Alex R , Medlin Christopher G , Herman David
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper compares and contrasts the implementation of pharmacist-led services for 3 different sexual and gender minority populations across California, Mississippi, and Florida.

Implementation of pharmacist-led services tailored to sexual and gender minorities may be a potential mechanism to address health disparities in these populations. Clinical pharmacists have the potential to provide care with cultural humility and improve health outcomes by optimizing medication regimens, reducing adverse drug events, enhancing medication acquisition, and improving medication adherence.

Conclusion

The services provided by clinical pharmacists varied across sites and included management of gender-affirming hormone therapy, HIV antiretroviral medication adherence programming, primary care and chronic disease state management, and involvement in care related to mental health, psychiatry, and substance use as well as sexual health. Various legislative and regulatory barriers and differences in scope of practice for pharmacists were also identified. This paper advocates for the expansion of pharmacy-led services and the adoption of a culturally humble approach to patient care.
VIPpred: a novel model for predicting variant impact on phosphorylation events driving carcinogenesis
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Li Ying , Chen Taoyu , Hou Chao , Yang Liang , Zhu Peiyu , Zhang Yi , Li Tingting
Published: December 2023

Disrupted protein phosphorylation due to genetic variation is a widespread phenomenon that triggers oncogenic transformation of healthy cells. However, few relevant phosphorylation disruption events have been verified due to limited biological experimental methods. Because of the lack of reliable benchmark datasets, current bioinformatics methods primarily use sequence-based traits to study variant impact on phosphorylation (VIP). Here, we increased the number of experimentally supported VIP events from less than 30 to 740 by manually curating and reanalyzing multi-omics data from 916 patients provided by the Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium. To predict VIP events in cancer cells, we developed VIPpred, a machine learning method characterized by multidimensional features that exhibits robust performance across different cancer types. Our method provided a pan-cancer landscape of VIP events, which are enriched in cancer-related pathways and cancer driver genes. We found that variant-induced increases in phosphorylation events tend to inhibit the protein degradation of oncogenes and promote tumor suppressor protein degradation. Our work provides new insights into phosphorylation-related cancer biology as well as novel avenues for precision therapy.
Angiosperm fossil woods from the Upper Cretaceous (Cardiel Formation) of Argentinean Patagonia
Authors: Rombola Cosme F , Pujana Roberto R , Ruiz Daniela P , Bellosi Eduardo S
Published: December 2023

We describe nine angiosperm fossil woods from sediments of the Cardiel Formation (Upper Cretaceous) near the Cardiel Lake, Santa Cruz Province, Argentinian Patagonia. On the basis of the characteristics of the anatomy, the specimens were placed in three fossil species: Weinmannioxylon trichospermoides related to the Cunoniaceae, Burseroxylon panzai sp. nov. possibly related to the Anacardiaceae or Burseraceae, and a new taxon with unknown affinity, Tortorellixylon oligoporosum gen. et sp. nov. Angiosperms are 15% of the assemblage and conifers 85%, which is consistent with previous studies of fossil woods from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia. Most specimens show poorly distinct growth ring boundaries that suggest a weakly marked annual seasonality during the deposition of the Cardiel Formation. In addition, the specimens’ size and the rings’ curvature are consistent with large trees. Decay patterns similar to those produced by modern xylophagous fungi are also recognized in most specimens. The identification of three species in an assemblage of nine fossil woods suggests a significant taxonomic richness of angiosperms, and the taxonomic composition suggests a Late Cretaceous age for the Cardiel Formation (probably Campanian–Maastrichtian). These new records allow a better understanding of the composition of the fossil forests of the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia, in which the tree canopy was apparently dominated by conifers.
The importance of patient characteristics, operators, and image quality for the accuracy of heart failure diagnosis by general practitioners using handheld ultrasound devices
Authors: Magelssen Malgorzata Izabela , Hjorth-Hansen Anna Katarina , Andersen Garrett Newton , Graven Torbjørn , Kleinau Jens Olaf , Skjetne Kyrre , Lovstakken Lasse , Dalen Havard , Mjølstad Ole Christian
Published: December 2023

Aims

To evaluate whether the characteristics of patients, operators, and image quality could explain the accuracy of heart failure (HF) diagnostics by general practitioners (GPs) using handheld ultrasound devices (HUDs) with automatic decision-support software and telemedical support.

Methods and results

Patients referred to an outpatient cardiac clinic due to symptoms indicating HF were examined by one of five GPs after dedicated training. In total, 166 patients were included [median (inter-quartile range) age 73 (63–78) years; mean ± standard deviation ejection fraction 53 ± 10%]. The GPs considered whether the patients had HF in four diagnostic steps: (i) clinical examination, (ii) adding focused cardiac HUD examination, (iii) adding automatic decision-support software measuring mitral annular plane systolic excursion (autoMAPSE) and ejection fraction (autoEF), and (iv) adding telemedical support. Overall, the characteristics of patients, operators, and image quality explained little of the diagnostic accuracy. Except for atrial fibrillation [lower accuracy for HUD alone and after adding autoEF (P < 0.05)], no patient characteristics influenced the accuracy. Some differences between operators were found after adding autoMAPSE (P < 0.05). Acquisition errors of the four-chamber view and a poor visualization of the mitral plane were associated with reduced accuracy after telemedical support (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The characteristics of patients, operators, and image quality explained just minor parts of the modest accuracy of GPs’ HF diagnostics using HUDs with and without decision-support software. Atrial fibrillation and not well-standardized recordings challenged the diagnostic accuracy. However, the accuracy was only modest in well-recorded images, indicating a need for refinement of the technology.
Associations Between Blood Concentrations of Sex Hormones and Physical Function in Community-Dwelling Older Women: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Islam Rakibul M , Hussain Sultana Monira , McNeil John J , Davis Susan R
Published: December 2023

Background

Blood concentrations of testosterone and estrone tend to increase in women aged ≥70 years, whereas concentrations of their precursor hormone dehydroepiandrosterone decline. It is unknown whether these changes influence physical function. We investigated whether concentrations of these hormones were associated with grip strength and self-reported physical function in community-dwelling older women.

Methods

A total of 9 179 Australian women, aged ≥70 years, were recruited to the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial. Sex hormones were measured in Sex Hormones in Older Women, an ASPREE substudy, by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in 6 358 women. The associations between hormone concentrations and physical function (handgrip strength and self-reported physical function assessed by SF-12v2 physical component summary [PCS]) were examined using multiple linear regression.

Results

The median age of the 5,447 participants was 74.0 (interquartile range 71.7–77.6) years. Testosterone concentrations above the lowest quartile were associated with less decline in grip strength (mean –1.39 [95% CI –1.54 to –1.24] vs –1.75 [–2.00 to –1.50] kg, p = .02), and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations above the lowest quartile were associated with less decline in grip strength (–1.39 [–1.54 to –1.25] vs –1.82 [–2.11 to –1.55] kg, p = .007) and PCS scores (–1.49 [–1.80 to –1.17] vs –2.33 [–2.93 to –1.72], p = .02) over 4 years, compared with those in the respective lowest quartile.

Conclusions

Low endogenous concentrations of testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone were associated the greatest likelihood of physical function decline in community-based women aged ≥70 years. Further studies are warranted to determine whether testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone therapy prevent functional decline in this at-risk group using sensitive measures of muscle strength and performance.
COVID-19 and Cognitive and Mental Health During Post-Infection Phase: A Study Among Middle-Aged and Older Indigenous Adults From Brazilian Amazons
Authors: Bezerra Camila Carlos , Toledo Noeli das Neves , Brucki Sonia Maria Dozzi , Souza-Talarico Juliana Nery
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To examine the rate of self-reported coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) and its association with mental and cognitive health during the post-infection phase among middle-aged and older indigenous adults.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted, including 141 individuals ≥50 and over from an urban indigenous community in Amazonas, Brazil. COVID-19 was deduced from self-reported infections. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Exam, Brief Cognitive Screening Battery (BCSB), and language fluency tests. Meanwhile, mental health was assessed through validated scales examining happiness, stress, and depression symptoms. The association between the rate of COVID-19 and cognitive and mental well-being was analyzed using logistic and linear regressions, adjusted for covariates.

Results

From March 2020 to February 2022, 65.2% of the urban indigenous group tested positive for COVID-19. Lower functional capacity decreased the odds of contracting COVID-19 (p = .03). Adjusted linear regression models showed that COVID-19 was associated with higher BCSB learning (p = .017) and delayed recall (p = .028). Women, higher age, lower functional capacity, and hospitalization were associated with worse cognitive performance (p < .05). No impact of mental health indicators on past COVID-19 infection was noted.

Discussion

COVID-19 was prevalent among urban Indigenous Brazilians. Unexpectedly, it was linked to enhanced learning and memory, not mental health issues. Cognitive performance was lower for men, older individuals, those with less functional ability, and hospitalized patients, indicating that participant characteristics and disease severity affect the COVID-19 and cognition relationship. Longitudinal studies across diverse Indigenous communities are necessary to understand COVID-19’s impact on their cognitive and mental health.
Co-methylation analyses identify CpGs associated with lipid traits in Chinese discordant monozygotic twins
Authors: Li Zhaoying , Wang Weijing , Li Weilong , Duan Haiping , Xu Chunsheng , Tian Xiaocao , Ning Feng , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: December 2023

To control genetic background and early life milieu in genome-wide DNA methylation analysis for blood lipids, we recruited Chinese discordant monozygotic twins to explore the relationships between DNA methylations and total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). 132 monozygotic (MZ) twins were included with discordant lipid levels and completed data. A linear mixed model was conducted in Epigenome-wide association study (EWAS). Generalized estimating equation model was for gene expression analysis. We conducted Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) to build co-methylated interconnected network. Additional Qingdao citizens were recruited for validation. Inference about Causation through Examination of Familial Confounding (ICE FALCON) was used to infer the possible direction of these relationships. A total of 476 top CpGs reached suggestively significant level (P < 10−4), of which, 192 CpGs were significantly associated with TG (FDR < 0.05). They were used to build interconnected network and highlight crucial genes from WGCNA. Finally, four CpGs in GATA4 were validated as risk factors for TC; six CpGs at ITFG2-AS1 were negatively associated with TG; two CpGs in PLXND1 played protective roles in HDL-C. ICE FALCON indicated abnormal TC was regarded as the consequence of DNA methylation in CpGs at GATA4, rather than vice versa. Four CpGs in ITFG2-AS1 were both causes and consequences of modified TG levels. Our results indicated that DNA methylation levels of 12 CpGs in GATA4, ITFG2-AS1, and PLXND1 were relevant to TC, TG, and HDL-C, respectively, which might provide new epigenetic insights into potential clinical treatment of dyslipidemia.
Construction of a prognostic model for lung adenocarcinoma based on m6A/m5C/m1A genes
Authors: Ding Hao , Teng Yuanyuan , Gao Ping , Zhang Qi , Wang Mengdi , Yu Yi , Fan Yueping , Zhu Li
Published: December 2023

Background

Developing a prognostic model for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) that utilizes m6A/m5C/m1A genes holds immense importance in providing precise prognosis predictions for individuals.

Methods

This study mined m6A/m5C/m1A-related differential genes in LUAD based on public databases, identified LUAD tumor subtypes based on these genes, and further built a risk prognostic model grounded in differential genes between subtypes. The immune status between high- and low-risk groups was investigated, and the distribution of feature genes in tumor immune cells was analyzed using single-cell analysis. Based on the expression levels of feature genes, a projection of chemotherapeutic and targeted drugs was made for individuals identified as high-risk. Ultimately, cell experiments were further verified.

Results

The 6-gene risk prognosis model based on differential genes between tumor subtypes had good predictive performance. Individuals classified as low-risk exhibited a higher (P < 0.05) abundance of infiltrating immune cells. Feature genes were mainly distributed in tumor immune cells like CD4+T cells, CD8+T cells, and regulatory T cells. Four drugs with relatively low IC50 values were found in the high-risk group: Elesclomol, Pyrimethamine, Saracatinib, and Temsirolimus. In addition, four drugs with significant positive correlation (P < 0.001) between IC50 values and feature gene expression were found, including Alectinib, Estramustine, Brigatinib, and Elesclomol. The low expression of key gene NTSR1 reduced the IC50 value of irinotecan.

Conclusion

Based on the m6A/m5C/m1A-related genes in LUAD, LUAD patients were divided into 2 subtypes, and a m6A/m5C/m1A-related LUAD prognostic model was constructed to provide a reference for the prognosis prediction of LUAD.
Exploring N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification in tree species: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Ramakrishnan Muthusamy , Rajan K Shanmugha , Mullasseri Sileesh , Ahmad Zishan , Zhou Mingbing , Sharma Anket , Ramasamy Subbiah , Wei Qiang
Published: December 2023

N 6-methyladenosine (m6A) in eukaryotes is the most common and widespread internal modification in mRNA. The modification regulates mRNA stability, translation efficiency, and splicing, thereby fine-tuning gene regulation. In plants, m6A is dynamic and critical for various growth stages, embryonic development, morphogenesis, flowering, stress response, crop yield, and biomass. Although recent high-throughput sequencing approaches have enabled the rapid identification of m6A modification sites, the site-specific mechanism of this modification remains unclear in trees. In this review, we discuss the functional significance of m6A in trees under different stress conditions and discuss recent advancements in the quantification of m6A. Quantitative and functional insights into the dynamic aspect of m6A modification could assist researchers in engineering tree crops for better productivity and resistance to various stress conditions.
AlliumDB: a central portal for comparative and functional genomics in Allium
Authors: Yang Pengtao , Yuan Yu , Yan Chao , Jia Yue , You Qi , Da Lingling , Lou Ao , Lv Bingsheng , Zhang Zhonghua , Liu Yue
Published: December 2023

The genus Allium belongs to the botanical family Amaryllidaceae and includes economically important crops such as onion, garlic, bunching onion, and leek, used as vegetables, spices, and traditional medicines. The large sizes of Allium genomes hamper the genetic dissection of agronomically important traits and molecular breeding. With the growing accumulation of genomic, resequencing, transcriptome, and phenotypic data, the demand for an integrative Allium database is increasing. Here we present a user-friendly database, AlliumDB (https://allium.qau.edu.cn), as a functional genomics hub integrating public and in-house data. The database contains all currently available nuclear and organelle genomes for Allium species, with genes comprehensively annotated based on Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses, orthology, gene families, protein families (Pfam), and non-coding RNA families (Rfam). Transcriptome and variation profiles are integrated into dynamic visualization tools. We took phenotypic photographs and generated trait records for hundreds of Allium germplasms collected worldwide, which are included in the database. We incorporated JBrowse for the visualization of gene structures, RNA sequencing data, and variation data. Analysis tools such as the basic local alignment search tool (BLAST), sequence fetch, enrichment, and motif analyses are available to explore potential gene functions. This database incorporates comprehensive Allium genotypic and phenotypic datasets. As the community assembles new genomes and generates resequencing data for Allium germplasms, the database will be improved and continuously updated with these multi-omics data and comparative genomic studies. We expect the AlliumDB database to become a key resource for the study of Allium crops.
Unique Metabolomic and Lipidomic Profile in Serum From Patients With Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Compared With Healthy Control Individuals
Authors: Tews Hauke Christian , Schmelter Franziska , Kandulski Arne , Büchler Christa , Schmid Stephan , Schlosser Sophie , Elger Tanja , Loibl Johanna , Sommersberger Stefanie , Fererberger Tanja , Gunawan Stefan , Kunst Claudia , Gülow Karsten , Bettenworth Dominik , Föh Bandik , Maaß Carlos , Solbach Philipp , Günther Ulrich L , Derer Stefanie , Marquardt Jens U , Sina Christian , Müller Martina
Published: December 2023

Background

Accurate biomarkers for disease activity and progression in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are a prerequisite for individual disease characterization and personalized therapy. We show that metabolic profiling of serum from IBD patients is a promising approach to establish biomarkers. The aim of this work was to characterize metabolomic and lipidomic serum profiles of IBD patients in order to identify metabolic fingerprints unique to the disease.

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 55 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), 34 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), and 40 healthy control (HC) individuals and analyzed using proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Classification of patients and HC individuals was achieved by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis and univariate analysis approaches. Disease activity was assessed using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale.

Results

Serum metabolome significantly differed between CD patients, UC patients, and HC individuals. The metabolomic differences of UC and CD patients compared with HC individuals were more pronounced than the differences between UC and CD patients. Differences in serum levels of pyruvic acid, histidine, and the branched-chain amino acids leucine and valine were detected. The size of low-density lipoprotein particles shifted from large to small dense particles in patients with CD. Of note, apolipoprotein A1 and A2 serum levels were decreased in CD and UC patients with higher fecal calprotectin levels. The Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale is negatively associated with the concentration of apolipoprotein A2.

Conclusions

Metabolomic assessment of serum samples facilitated the differentiation of IBD patients and HC individuals. These differences were constituted by changes in amino acid and lipoprotein levels. Furthermore, disease activity in IBD patients was associated with decreased levels of the atheroprotective apolipoproteins A1 and A2.
A Multiseason Randomized Controlled Trial of Advax-Adjuvanted Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Participants With Chronic Disease or Older Age
Authors: Sajkov Dimitar , Woodman Richard , Honda-Okubo Yoshikazu , Barbara Jeffrey , Chew Derek , Toson Barbara , Petrovsky Nikolai
Published: December 2023

Background

The aim of the current study was to determine the safety and immunogenicity of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (TIV) alone or formulated with Advax delta inulin adjuvant in those who were older (aged >60 years) or had chronic disease.

Methods

Over 4 consecutive years from 2008 through 2011, adult participants with chronic disease or >60 years of age were recruited into a randomized controlled study to assess the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of Advax-adjuvanted TIV (TIV + Adj) versus standard TIV. The per-protocol population with ≥1 postbaseline measurement of influenza antibodies comprised 1297 participants, 447 in the TIV and 850 in the TIV + Adj) group.

Results

No safety issues were identified. Variables negatively affecting vaccine responses included obesity and diabetes mellitus. Advax adjuvant had a positive impact on anti-influenza immunoglobulin M responses and on H3N2 and B strain seropositivity as assessed by hemagglutination inhibition.

Conclusions

TIV + Adj was safe and well tolerated in individuals with chronic disease. There is an ongoing need for research into improved influenza vaccines for high-risk populations.

Clinical Trials Registration

Australia New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN 12608000364370.
A Qualitative Method to Detect Paraproteins from Serum Using Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Putchen Deepalakshmi D , Nambiar Athira , Gondkar Akshata R , Bhujangashayi Venkatesh D , Prasad Sujay R
Published: December 2023

Background

Mass spectrometry-based techniques are increasingly reported in the literature for identifying paraproteins due to their improved specificity and sensitivity. The present study demonstrates the capability of ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometry for the qualitative analysis of paraproteins.

Methods

Paraproteins from patient serum (n = 40) were immunopurified using agarose beads coated with camelid antibodies that are specific for various subtypes of immunoglobulins (Igs; G, A, M, and light chains κ, λ). The extracted Igs are reduced to separate light chains from heavy chains in solution. The reduced sample was subjected to UPLC and mass measured using electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry. The mass spectral peaks at specific retention times were deconvoluted after clean-up to obtain the mass of light chains. The interpretation of liquid chromatography peaks and LC-MS data was validated by comparing them with immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) results.

Results

The interpretation from the chromatographic pattern had a 92.5% (37/40) agreement when compared with mass information. The correlation of mass spectrometry data to IFE was 90% (36/40). The high mass of light chains (>25 kDa) was suggestive of glycosylation. Patient sera positive for IgGκ on IFE (n = 15) were analyzed for the interference of tAbs. The mass of Daratumumab observed in a sample was confirmed by the treating physician. A biclonal of same isotype (IgGκ) was identified.

Conclusions

The feasibility of using liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry for the identification of the subtype of paraproteins has been demonstrated. The method’s applicability to screen for interference from tAbs and identification of biclonals of the same isotype has been highlighted.
Residual activity of insecticides against adult Systena frontalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) under semi-field conditions
Authors: Arshad Rehan , Joseph Shimat V
Published: December 2023

Systena frontalis (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a serious insect pest in nursery production. Insecticides are an important control tactic for S. frontalis adults to reduce economic losses associated with its injury. Because densities and activity of S. frontalis adults are influenced by many biotic (e.g., adult emergence timing) and abiotic (e.g., fluctuating temperatures) factors in the nurseries, it is challenging to reliably determine the efficacy and residual activity of insecticides under field conditions. Thus, the objective was to determine the residual activity of common and alternative insecticides on adult S. frontalis under semi-field conditions. Field-collected S. frontalis adults were exposed to 0-, 7-, 14-, and 21-d-old, field-aged residue of 13 insecticides applied on panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold) shoots and maintained in the field. The fresh residues of tetraniliprole, cyclaniliprole, and sulfoxaflor + spinetoram were the most effective against S. frontalis adults, whereas only tetraniliprole and cyclaniliprole elicited evidence of efficacy when their residues were aged for a week. Fourteen- and 21-d-old residues of tetraniliprole were still effective on S. frontalis adults and reduced the injury. Based on the results, tetraniliprole, cyclaniliprole, and sulfoxaflor + spinetoram were effective for immediate management, cyclaniliprole can provide short-term efficacy, and tetraniliprole provides longer-term efficacy.
Evaluation of reflective mulch and insect exclusion coverings for allium leafminer (Diptera: Agromyzidae) management in allium crops
Authors: Lai Pin-Chu , Grundberg Ethan A , Rusinek Teresa , Nault Brian A
Published: December 2023

Allium leafminer (Phytomyza gymnostoma Loew) is a recent invasive pest in the United States causing serious economic loss in organic allium crops. Organic management of P. gymnostoma is currently limited to foliar applications of spinosad, but this strategy is not always sufficient under high infestations. Nonchemical management tools used either alone or in combination with spinosad are needed to improve P. gymnostoma management. Reflective mulch alone or combined with spinosad as well as insect exclusion coverings were evaluated for managing P. gymnostoma in allium crops in New York from 2018 to 2021. Reflective mulch alone reduced the numbers of oviposition marks by 16% and densities of larvae plus pupae by 40% compared with those in standard plastic mulch. Reflective mulch combined with 1 spinosad application reduced P. gymnostoma densities to levels lower than those in reflective mulch alone, but 2 spinosad applications were required to provide an acceptable control level. Combining with reflective mulch, row covers, and insect netting reduced P. gymnostoma densities by 76% compared with those without physical barriers, and the level of control was comparable to that provided by 2 spinosad applications. Phytomyza gymnostoma densities in allium crops grown under row covers deployed throughout the entire period when flies were active tended to be lower than those protected during shorter periods (80% reduction). Future management of P. gymnostoma in allium crops should consider either combining reflective mulch with 2 foliar spinosad applications or deploying insect exclusion coverings. The advantages and challenges of using these management strategies are discussed.
The effects of insecticide seed treatments on the parasitism and predation of Myzus persicae (Homoptera: Aphididae) in canola
Authors: Ward Samantha E , Hoffmann Ary A , Van Helden Maarten , Slavenko Alex , Umina Paul A
Published: December 2023

The green peach aphid, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Homoptera: Aphididae), is a major pest of brassica plants, with the ability to transmit > 100 viruses. Although the adoption of Integrated Pest Management is increasing, chemical treatment remains the predominant method used to control M. persicae globally. Insecticide seed treatments, typically with neonicotinoid active ingredients, have become commonplace in canola crops, and are viewed as a “softer” alternative to foliar sprays but may nevertheless impact natural enemies of M. persicae. In this study, the effects of canola seed treatments, containing imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, and a mixture of thiamethoxam + lambda-cyhalothrin, were investigated on the parasitoid wasp, Aphidius colemani Viereck (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and the green lacewing, Mallada signatus (Schneider) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), both important natural enemies of M. persicae. Laboratory trials were undertaken using whole plants, with lethal and sublethal effects assessed by measuring several traits. Compared with untreated plants, more aphid mummies were produced and more A. colemani were reared on plants treated with thiamethoxam + lambda-cyhalothrin and more aphid mummies were produced on imidacloprid plants. Imidacloprid reduced the time A. colemani spent searching for M. persicae and thiamethoxam reduced its cleaning time. However, after A. colemani were removed from treated plants, there were no such effects observed, suggesting these impacts were relatively short-lived. We found no significant effects of seed treatments on M. signatus. These results point to the complexity of ecotoxicology studies involving multiple trophic levels and indicate that seed treatments may have variable impacts on key fitness traits of natural enemies.
Primary perianal Paget’s disease: three cases
Authors: Lydrup Erika , Lydrup Marie-Louise , Agger Erik
Published: December 2023

Perianal Paget’s disease (PPD) is a rare intraepidermal neoplastic disease, presenting with nonspecific symptoms, such as pruritis ani or eczema. Perianal Paget’s disease may present as a primary lesion or as a paramalignant phenomenon. Uniform evidence-based treatment strategies have not been defined for this rare condition, and currently, different treatment methods are suggested. This case report presents three cases of perianal Paget’s disease with three different treatments and outcomes. Pathogenesis, treatment, and the importance of a strict follow-up program are discussed.
Passive stomatal closure under extreme drought in an angiosperm species
Authors: McAdam Scott A M , Manandhar Anju , Kane Cade N , Mercado-Reyes Joel A
Published: December 2023

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) plays a major role in closing the stomata of angiosperms. However, recent reports of some angiosperm species having a peaking-type ABA dynamic, in which under extreme drought ABA levels decline to pre-stressed levels, raises the possibility that passive stomatal closure by leaf water status alone can occur in species from this lineage. To test this hypothesis, we conducted instantaneous rehydration experiments in the peaking-type species Umbellularia californica through a long-term drought, in which ABA levels declined to pre-stress levels, yet stomata remain closed. We found that when ABA levels were lowest during extreme drought, stomata reopen rapidly to maximum rates of gas exchange on instantaneous rehydration, suggesting that the stomata of U. californica were passively closed by leaf water status alone. This contrasts with leaves early in drought, in which ABA levels were highest and stomata did not reopen on instantaneous rehydration. The transition from ABA-driven stomatal closure to passively driven stomatal closure as drought progresses in this species occurs at very low water potentials facilitated by highly embolism-resistant xylem. These results have important implications for understanding stomatal control during drought in angiosperms.
Vortexing specimens to disaggregate platelet clumps in EDTA specimens
Authors: Mundt Lillian
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare platelet count results of specimens that yield platelet clump flags to platelet count results on these specimens after vortexing.

Method

Specimens that generated platelet count flags on Sysmex XN 3000 instruments were vortexed and rerun. Only data from specimens demonstrating elimination of platelet clump flags were used in this study. Pearson r analysis was performed on data.

Results

Comparison of complete blood count results (white blood cell count, red blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet count) all yielded Pearson r scores >0.9.

Conclusion

Additional patient comfort and safety concerns, as well as concerns over additional specimen collection and processing costs, may be avoided by vortexing and rerunning specimens flagged for platelet clumps when the platelet count is normal.
The transference of family law to the Faroe Islands and the inter-territorial conflicts of laws in the Kingdom of Denmark: an appraisal
Authors: Lorenzo Villaverde José María
Published: December 2023

The Danish state or Rigsfællesskab is a decentralized state composed of the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Denmark proper. Differences among the family laws in force in the three parts of the Kingdom have existed for long, as not all laws passed by the Danish parliament have been implemented in Greenland or the Faroes. Since 2018, the Faroese authorities have assumed competences to legislate on family law. This article critically explores the legal structure and functioning of distribution of competences in family law in the Danish Rigsfællesskab, the transference of the field to the Faroe Islands and inter-territorial private law issues in family matters between Denmark proper and the Faroe Islands. The topics of same-sex marriages, matrimonial property regimes and co-motherhood are particularly examined. The article identifies and discusses various incoherencies and problems of the system. The contours of the field family law and its interaction with other fields are imprecise. There is no well-stablished body to solve possible disputes on competences, which are, in practice, left to political negotiations instead of based on a clear framework. When it comes to inter-territorial private law, the uncertainty deepens. Inter-territorial private law is not a legislated matter and to what extent inter-territorial cases are treated differently from private international law ones remains unclear. There is virtually no coordination between the relevant authorities involved. Can we talk about one common inter-territorial private law for the whole Kingdom of Denmark? Can a decision from one part of the Rigsfællesskab face non-recognition in another part? Although the article argues against invoking ordre public, it acknowledges that the matter is not settled.

The interaction between the family laws of Denmark proper and the Faroe Islands occurs within a framework that lacks clarity in its functioning and application. It evidences disorganization, inaction as well as little reflection on the Danish state as a decentralized state in family law. The result is legal uncertainty which negatively impacts citizens and may lead to situations of discrimination, forum shopping or limping status.