bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomics screening after pediatric allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation reveals an association between increased expression of inhibitory receptor FCRL6 on γδ T cells and cytomegalovirus reactivation
Authors: Alexandersson Adam , Venäläinen Mikko S , Heikkilä Nelli , Huang Xiaobo , Taskinen Mervi , Huttunen Pasi , Elo Laura L , Koskenvuo Minna , Kekäläinen Eliisa
Published: May 2024

We studied the associations between inflammation‐related proteins in circulation and complications after pediatric allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), to reveal proteomic signatures or individual soluble proteins associated with specific complications after HSCT. We used a proteomics method called Proximity Extension Assay to repeatedly measure 180 different proteins together with clinical variables, cellular immune reconstitution and blood viral copy numbers in 27 children (1–18 years of age) during a 2‐year follow‐up after allogenic HSCT. Protein profile analysis was performed using unsupervised hierarchical clustering and a regression‐based method, while the Bonferroni‐corrected Mann–Whitney U‐test was used for time point–specific comparison of individual proteins against outcome. At 6 months after allogenic HSCT, we could identify a protein profile pattern associated with occurrence of the complications such as chronic graft‐versus‐host disease, viral infections, relapse and death. When protein markers were analyzed separately, the plasma concentration of the inhibitory and cytotoxic T‐cell surface protein FCRL6 (Fc receptor‐like 6) was higher in patients with cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia [log2‐fold change 1.5 (P = 0.00099), 2.5 (P = 0.00035) and 2.2 (P = 0.045) at time points 6, 12 and 24 months]. Flow cytometry confirmed that FCRL6 expression was higher in innate‐like γδ T cells, indicating that these cells are involved in controlling CMV reactivation in HSCT recipients. In conclusion, the potentially druggable FCRL6 receptor on cytotoxic T cells appears to have a role in controlling CMV viremia after HSCT. Furthermore, our results suggest that system‐level analysis is a useful addition to the studying of single biomarkers in allogenic HSCT.
Gamification improves learning: Experience in a training activity of computer programming in higher education
Authors: Mellado Rafael , Cubillos Claudio
Published: May 2024

Background

Effective learning in computer programming courses has been a constant challenge for university teachers and has become a relevant competence for current professionals. The literature on gamification in learning presents mixed results, mainly due to problems in instructional design and inconsistency in gamification. Studies with positive empirical results on computer programming formative activities and showing under what conditions gamification is effective still need to be included.

Objectives

This study aimed to quantify the effects of gamification techniques in software tools that support computer programming learning applied to data‐structures university students. The study focused on determining whether there are differences in learning when using gamification techniques in online exercising formative activities. The effects of gamification on learning objectives with diverse complexity are studied.

Methods

The study was conducted on computer engineering university students following a pretest‐intervention‐posttest design. They were divided into control and experimental groups, where both used a bank of exercises in Moodle to support learning. The experimental group considered gamification techniques, including points, leaderboards, and badges.

Results and Conclusions

Gamification techniques significantly outperformed in learning gains in exercising activities without gamification. Regarding learning complexity, increasing taxonomic complexity did not negatively affect gamification learning effects.
Utilizing median and maximum QTc values improves prediction of breakthrough cardiac events in pediatric long QT syndrome
Authors: Rohatgi Ram K. , Tseng Andrew S. , Sugrue Alan M. , Lee Alexander T. , Scott Christopher G. , Wackel Phillip L. , Cannon Bryan C. , Bos J. Martijn , Ackerman Michael J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Although prior studies indicate that a QTc > 500 ms on a single baseline 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is associated with significantly increased risk of arrhythmic events in long QT syndrome (LQTS), less is known about the risk of persistent QT prolongation. We sought to determine QTc persistence and its prognostic effect on breakthrough cardiac events (BCEs) among pediatric patients treated for LQTS.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 433 patients with LQTS evaluated, risk‐stratified, and undergoing active guideline‐based LQTS treatment between 1999 and 2019. BCEs were defined as arrhythmogenic syncope/seizure, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), appropriate VF‐terminating ICD shock, and sudden cardiac death (SCD).

Results

During the median follow‐up of 5.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 3–9), 32 (7%) patients experienced a total of 129 BCEs. A maximum QTc threshold of 520 ms and median QTc threshold of 490 ms were determined to be strong predictors for BCEs. A landmark analysis controlling for age, sex, genotype, and symptomatic status demonstrated models utilizing both the median QTc and maximum QTc demonstrated the highest discriminatory value (c‐statistic = 0.93–0.95). Patients in the high‐risk group (median QTc > 490 ms and maximum QTc > 520 ms) had a significantly lower BCE free survival (70%–81%) when compared to patients in both medium‐risk (93%–97%) and low‐risk (98%–99%) groups.

Conclusions

The risk of BCE among patients treated for LQTS increases not only based upon their maximum QTc, but also their median QTc (persistence of QTc prolongation). Patients with a maximum QTc > 520 ms and median QTc > 490 ms over serial 12‐lead ECGs are at the highest risk of BCE while on guideline‐directed medical therapy.
Increasing marine trophic web knowledge through DNA analyses of fish stomach content: a step towards an ecosystem‐based approach to fisheries research
Authors: Canals Oriol , Lanzén Anders , Mendibil Iñaki , Bachiller Eneko , Corrales Xavier , Andonegi Eider , Cotano Unai , Rodríguez‐Ezpeleta Naiara
Published: May 2024

Multispecies and ecosystem models, which are key for the implementation of ecosystem‐based approaches to fisheries management, require extensive data on the trophic interactions between marine organisms, including changes over time. DNA metabarcoding, by allowing the simultaneous taxonomic identification of the community present in hundreds of samples, could be used for speeding up large‐scale stomach content data collection. Yet, for DNA metabarcoding to be routinely implemented, technical challenges should be addressed, such as the potentially complicated sampling logistics, the detection of a high proportion of predator DNA, and the inability to provide reliable abundance estimations. Here, we present a DNA metabarcoding assay developed to examine the diet of five commercially important fish, which can be feasibly incorporated into routinary samplings. The method is devised to speed up the analysis process by avoiding the stomach dissection and content extraction steps, while preventing the amplification of predator DNA by using blocking primers. Tested in mock samples and in real stomach samples, the method has proven effective and shows great effectiveness discerning diet variations due to predator ecology or prey availability. Additionally, by applying our protocol to mackerel stomachs previously analyzed by visual inspection, we showcase how DNA metabarcoding could complement visually based data by detecting overlooked prey by the visual approach. We finally discuss how DNA metabarcoding‐based data can contribute to trophic data collection. Our work reinforces the potential of DNA metabarcoding for the study and monitoring of fish trophic interactions and provides a basis for its incorporation into routine monitoring programs, which will be critical for the implementation of ecosystem‐based approaches to fisheries management.
Effects of handling and surgical implant on juvenile wild trout: Physiological and behavioral impact
Authors: Makaras Tomas , Stankevičiūtė Milda
Published: May 2024

Fish involved in telemetry studies are usually handled, anaesthetized, and subjected to internal tag implantation, all of which have the potential to disrupt the fish's physiology, migratory patterns, food‐seeking behavior, growth, and survival. As fish tagging is a widespread standard method in aquaculture, it is crucial to gain a better understanding of the short‐ and long‐term effects on various aspects of fish welfare. The experimental outcomes of each phase of the surgical process and how it affects the fish's ability to recover during the post‐tagging period, particularly in small salmonids, are poorly understood. Thus, it is essential to measure the extent of these adverse effects to precisely extrapolate differences in surgical intervention for tagged fish compared to their unmanipulated counterparts. In our study, we explored the post‐tagging impacts on wild‐captured brown trout (Salmo trutta) (1+) juveniles. We examined the time effect on fish recovery after each phase of the surgical procedure, which included anaesthetized fish, followed by surgery with/without internal tagging, within the first 2 and 25 h post‐surgery. Common blood parameters (glucose levels and haematocrit) and endpoints related to swimming behavior, including fish movement, direction, and social distancing aspects, were studied. The findings of the study indicated no significant changes in glucose and haematocrit levels over the observational period. Fish subjected to anesthesia and tagging procedures exhibited a significant decrease in swimming activity, recovering to baseline levels 1 h after anesthesia and 24 h after surgical (tagging) procedures in recirculating aquaculture systems. Tagged fish showed less social proximity than non‐tagged fish in the first 2 h post‐surgery. A significant effect size was observed between nonsurgical (anesthesia) and surgical (non‐tagged/tagged) groups, highlighting a more pronounced impact associated with surgical tag interventions. Our data indicate that the magnitude of behavioral response was significantly influenced by tag weight (~1.4% body/tag weight ratio in water) among manipulated fish groups. Consequently, our study reveals that wild‐captured S. trutta juveniles, tagged with commercially available low‐weight acoustic tags (V6, 69 kHz), experienced negative effects on swimming performance. In surgical studies, acknowledging potential influences is crucial for accurately inferring fish physiological and behavioral status. Emphasizing fish recovery potential in both short‐ and long‐term periods is essential for quantifying tagging effects. Future research should prioritize exploring alternative tagging technologies and refining methodologies, with a particular focus on assessing telemetry's impact on socioeconomically relevant small salmonids.
Emergency department visits and hospital readmissions after a deprescribing intervention among hospitalized older adults
Authors: Lee Ji Won , Hollingsworth Emily Kay , Shah Avantika Saraf , Szanton Sarah L. , Perrin Nancy , Mixon Amanda S. , Vasilevskis Eduard Eric , Boyd Cynthia M. , Han Hae‐Ra , Green Ariel R. , Taylor Janiece L. , Simmons Sandra Faye
Published: May 2024

Background

Deprescribing is the planned/supervised method of dose reduction or cessation of medications that might be harmful, or no longer be beneficial. Though benefits of deprescribing are debatable in improving clinical outcomes, it has been associated with decreased number of potentially inappropriate medications, which may potentially reduce the risk of adverse events among hospitalized older adults. With unclear evidence for deprescribing in this population, this study aimed to examine time‐to‐first unplanned healthcare utilization, which included 90‐day emergency department (ED) visits or hospital readmission and associated predictors, during a deprescribing intervention.

Methods

A secondary data analysis of a clinical trial (Shed‐MEDS NCT02979353) was performed. Cox regression was used to compare the time‐to‐first 90‐day ED visit/readmission/death from hospital discharge for the intervention and control groups. Additionally, we performed exploratory analysis of predictors (comorbidities, functional health status, drug burden index (DBI), hospital length of stay, health literacy, food insecurity, and financial burden) associated with the time‐to‐first 90‐day ED visit/readmission/death.

Results

The hazard of first 90‐day ED visits/readmissions/death was 15% lower in the intervention versus the control group (95% CI: 0.61–1.19, p = 0.352, respectively); however, this difference was not statistically significant. For every additional number of comorbidities (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04–1.21) and each additional day of hospital length of stay (HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.07) were significantly associated with a higher hazard of 90‐day ED visit/readmission/death in the intervention group; whereas for each unit of increase in pre‐hospital DBI score (HR: 1.08 and HR 1.16, respectively) was significantly associated with a higher hazard of 90‐day ED visit/readmission/death in the control group.

Conclusions

The intervention and control groups had comparable time‐to‐first 90‐day ED visit/readmission/death during a deprescribing intervention. This finding suggests that deprescribing did not result in a higher risk of ED visit/readmission/death during the 90‐day period following hospital discharge.
Self‐care ability and associated factors in community‐dwelling older adults living with oral frailty using the COM‐B model
Authors: Liu Dun , Gao Yufang , Su Xin
Published: May 2024

Background

Self‐care can improve overall oral health. However, few studies have investigated this in community‐dwelling older adults with oral frailty. The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM‐B) model may be an appropriate framework to identify factors that affect self‐care ability.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the current status of and factors influencing self‐care ability in community‐dwelling older adults living with oral frailty, and to analyse the risk factors of low self‐care ability.

Methods

Two hundred seventy‐five community‐dwelling older adults with oral frailty participated in this cross‐sectional study from October 2022 to March 2023. Participants underwent evaluations of oral health knowledge and behaviour, oral health literacy, nutritional condition, social support, oral health‐related quality of life, self‐efficacy and self‐care ability using questionnaires. The self‐care ability of older adults was assessed using the Chinese version of self‐care ability scale for the elderly (SASE). The influencing factors were evaluated by single‐factor analysis, correlation analysis and multi‐factor analysis. Furthermore, we conducted additional analysis, wherein self‐care ability was analysed as a categorical variable.

Results

Of the participants, the SASE score was 62.43 ± 7.33, and 73.09% were inadequate at self‐care ability. There was a positive correlation between the level of self‐care ability and each variable (p < .001). Multiple linear regression showed that health literacy (p < .001), age (p < .001), nutritional condition (p = .001), gender (p = .003), quality of life (p = .014) and self‐efficacy (p = .040) were significantly associated with decreased self‐care ability (R2 = 0.444, F = 19.241). Binomial logistic regression analysis showed that gender, educational level, nutritional condition, oral health literacy and quality of life (all P<0.05) were risk factors for developing low levels of self‐care ability.

Conclusion

This study suggests that health literacy, age, nutritional condition, quality of life, gender and self‐efficacy are important factors that influence self‐care ability in community‐dwelling older adults living with oral frailty.
Genetic influence on treatment outcomes in patients with pain‐related temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Zlendić Marko , Vrbanović Ema , Trošelj Koraljka Gall , Tomljanović Marko , Đerfi Kristina Vuković , Alajbeg Iva Z.
Published: May 2024

Background

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may influence pain susceptibility and impact treatment response in pain‐related temporomandibular disorders (TMDp).

Objective

Explore the role of COMT (rs4646310, rs6269, rs4818, rs4680) and OPRM1 (rs1799971) genotypes in regulating treatment response.

Methods

Sixty TMDp patients (55 females and 5 males), diagnosed with the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD), underwent standardised treatment (information and education, home physical therapy, occlusal splint) for 6 months. Treatment outcomes included: pain intensity, pain‐free mouth opening, jaw functional limitation, depression, and anxiety. Genotyping for COMT and OPRM1 SNPs was performed using DNA from buccal mucosa swabs and TaqMan assays. Statistical analysis was carried out to compare the changes in treatment outcomes and the influence of genotypes on treatment response.

Results

Significantly less pain reduction was observed in minor allele carriers of rs4646310, and rs4680 compared to dominant homozygous (p < .025). Minor allele carriers of rs1799971 and rs4646310 demonstrated worsening in pain‐free mouth opening while dominant homozygous exhibited improvement (p < .025). Significantly less anxiety reduction was observed in minor allele carriers of rs4646310 compared to dominant homozygous (p = .003).

Of the all variables assessed in the regression model, carrying a minor allele of rs1799971 predicted a poorer treatment response considering pain‐free mouth opening while carrying a minor allele of rs4646310 predicted less pain and less anxiety reduction.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that certain SNP variants of the COMT and OPRM1 genes were associated with poorer treatment response and may therefore play a significant role in the classification of TMDp patients. Also, assessment of patient genotype could potentially aid in predicting treatment response.
Clinical manifestations of chronic pancreatitis in English cocker spaniels
Authors: Coddou M. Francisca , Blacklaws Barbara , Watson Penny J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is common in English cocker spaniels (ECS). It is histologically similar to IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) in humans and is characterized by duct destruction, interlobular fibrosis, and dense periductular and perivenous lymphocytic aggregates. However, the clinical manifestations of CP in ECS have not been previously described.

Objectives

Characterize the clinical manifestations of CP in a group of ECS, including similarities and differences to IgG4‐RD in humans.

Animals

One‐hundred four ECS with CP and 44 client owned control ECS without CP (both healthy and diseased controls).

Methods

Affected dogs were divided into 2 groups according to the methods used to diagnose CP. Case records were searched for signalment, clinical, and clinicopathological findings, and evidence of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), proteinuria, other immune‐mediated diseases, and anal sacculitis.

Results

Involvement of other organs was common. Affected ECS presented with a high frequency of KCS (n = 49), proteinuria (n = 47), anal gland disease (n = 36), atopy (n = 21), and other immune‐mediated diseases (n = 16). Those with parti‐color hair coats, particularly blue roan, had a strong association with CP, suggesting a link between coat color and autoimmune conditions in this breed.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

English cocker spaniels with CP show clinical similarities to humans with IgG4‐RD and common involvement of other organs. Clinicians should evaluate affected Cocker Spaniels for proteinuria, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and other potential immune‐mediated diseases.
The use of ecological niche models improves biogeographic regionalization of the Balsas Depression, Mexico
Authors: Flores‐Tolentino Mayra , Villaseñor José Luis , Ibarra‐Manríquez Guillermo , Rodríguez Rolando Ramírez , Morales‐Linares Jonas , Dorado Óscar
Published: May 2024

Aim

Biogeographic regionalization classifies zones in terms of their biotas and contributes to understanding the ecological and historical factors that affect the distribution of species. We use Ecological Niche Modeling (ENM) to complement missing information on species distribution and thus improve the accuracy of biogeographic boundaries.

Location

Balsas Depression Floristic Province, Mexico.

Methods

Based on parameters documented in herbarium collections and environmental variables, ENM was carried out to determine the most suitable environmental conditions for a species to thrive (i.e., the species' ecological niche). The ENM and spatial analysis were used to obtain the biogeographic regionalization of the seasonally dry tropical forest (SDTF) in the Balsas Depression (BD), Mexico, through spatial analysis. Using the Maxent algorithm, we constructed ecological niche models (ENMs) of 134 flowering plant species distributed preferentially in the SDTF (characteristic species), most of them endemic to the BD. Subsequently, we obtained an incidence matrix based on the information from the 134 ENMs, which was used to analyze the turnover of species in Biodiverse software. The turnover matrix was used for Non‐metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) ordination and clustering analyses. Finally, the environmental predictors most related to species turnover were identified using the relative environmental turnover method.

Results

The clustering analysis divided the SDTF in the BD into four floristic districts — two located in its western part and two in the eastern region. The NMDS differentiated, in the first component, two districts in the western region and one in the eastern. Seven environmental variables contributed significantly to explaining the turnover of species in these districts; the most significant were the elevation, pH, and precipitation of the coldest quarter.

Main Conclusions

The use of ENM for the regionalization of areas with high species richness allows for a more detailed classification of subregions and the distribution patterns of the species that define their limits. This provides a more solid theoretical basis for the investigation of biogeographic patterns.
Video kills the radio star: Copyright and the human versus artificial creativity war
Authors: Mazzi Francesca , Fasciana Salvatore
Published: May 2024

This article contributes to the dynamic debate surrounding the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and copyright law, offering a fresh perspective that builds upon interdisciplinary analyses. Focusing on the cognitive processes underpinning creativity in both human and AI contexts, the study draws a detailed parallel between Vincent Van Gogh's iconic “Starry Night” and its AI‐generated counterpart generated through DeepDream technology. Central to the investigation is the application of psychological and neuroscientific theories to understand and compare the creative processes in humans and AI. Based on such exercise, the article first examines whether art generated with AI, devoid of human emotions and motivations yet capable of mimicking human creative cognitive processes, qualifies for copyright protection. The analysis suggests that the similarities between human and AI creativity, particularly in their cognitive structuring, could render the work “original” according to different jurisdictional standards and interpretation of copyright law. Second, the article investigates whether AI infringes copyright if protected material is used for its training and processing. This question becomes particularly relevant in light of recent legal actions against AI‐artwork generators in California, which raise issues of potential infringement by AI using latent diffusion techniques on existing artworks. The discussion provides an original perspective that can advance the ongoing debate on the use of copyrighted material for AI training. The paper aims to contribute to the ongoing debate about AI and copyright by challenging the traditional human‐centric view of authorship in copyright law. The article argues for a nuanced understanding that acknowledges the complex nature of creativity, transcending the binary division between human and artificial sources. This approach is critical in redefining legal frameworks, ensuring they are adaptive to the evolving landscape of AI capabilities. At the same time, the article addresses the implications of AI drawing inspiration from existing art, recognizing the need to balance different stakeholders' interests when drawing policy considerations. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a layered perspective that not only deepens the legal discourse but also respects and fosters the coexistence and mutual advancement of both human and artificial creativity in the digital age, in line with the purpose of copyright.
Mineralogical approach on laboratory weathering of uncontaminated Ryugu particles: Comparison with Orgueil and perspective for storage and analysis
Authors: Imae Naoya , Tomioka Naotaka , Uesugi Masayuki , Kimura Makoto , Yamaguchi Akira , Ito Motoo , Greenwood Richard C. , Kawai Tatsuya , Shirai Naoki , Ohigashi Takuji , Pilorget Cedric , Bibring Jean‐Pierre , Liu Ming‐Chang , Uesugi Kentaro , Nakato Aiko , Yogata Kasumi , Yuzawa Hayato , Kodama Yu , Yasutake Masahiro , Hirahara Kaori , Takeuchi Akihisa , Sakurai Ikuya , Okada Ikuo , Karouji Yuzuru , Yada Toru , Abe Masanao , Usui Tomohiro
Published: May 2024

Although CI chondrites are susceptible to terrestrial weathering on Earth, the specific processes are unknown. To elucidate the weathering mechanism, we conduct a laboratory experiment using pristine particles from asteroid Ryugu. Air‐exposed particles predominantly develop small‐sized euhedral Ca‐S‐rich grains (0.5–1 μm) on the particle surface and along open cracks. Both transmission electron microscopy and synchrotron‐based computed tomography combined with XRD reveal that the grains are hydrous Ca‐sulfate. Notably, this phase does not form in vacuum‐ or nitrogen‐stored particles, suggesting this result is due to laboratory weathering. We also compare the Orgueil CI chondrite with the altered Ryugu particles. Due to the weathering of pyrrhotite and dolomite, Orgueil contains a significant amount of gypsum and ferrihydrite. We suggest that mineralogical changes due to terrestrial weathering of particles returned directly from asteroid occur even after a short‐time air exposure. Consequently, conducting prompt analyses and ensuring proper storage conditions are crucial, especially to preserve the primordial features of organics and volatiles.
Joint evolution of mutualistic interactions, pollination, seed dispersal mutualism, and mycorrhizal symbiosis in trees
Authors: Yamawo Akira , Ohno Misuzu
Published: May 2024

Mycorrhizal symbiosis, seed dispersal, and pollination are recognized as the most prominent mutualistic interactions in terrestrial ecosystems. However, it remains unclear how these symbiotic relationships have interacted to contribute to current plant diversity.

We analyzed evolutionary relationships among mycorrhizal type, seed dispersal mode, and pollination mode in two global databases of 699 (database I) and 10 475 (database II) tree species. Although database II had been estimated from phylogenetic patterns and therefore had lower certainty of the mycorrhizal type than database I, whose mycorrhizal type was determined by direct observation, database II allowed analysis of many more taxa from more regions than database I.

We found evidence of joint evolution of all three features in both databases. This result is robust to the effects of both sampling bias and missing taxa. Most arbuscular mycorrhizal‐associated trees had endozoochorous (biotic) seed dispersal and biotic pollination, with long dispersal distances, whereas most ectomycorrhizal‐associated trees had anemochorous (abiotic) seed dispersal and wind (abiotic) pollination mode, with shorter dispersal distances.

These results provide a novel scenario in mutualistic interactions, seed dispersal, pollination, and mycorrhizal symbiosis types, which have jointly evolved and shaped current tree diversity and forest ecosystem world‐wide.
Complex petal spot formation in the Beetle Daisy (Gorteria diffusa) relies on spot‐specific accumulation of malonylated anthocyanin regulated by paralogous GdMYBSG6 transcription factors
Authors: Fattorini Róisín , Khojayori Farahnoz N. , Mellers Gregory , Moyroud Edwige , Herrero Eva , Kellenberger Roman T. , Walker Rachel , Wang Qi , Hill Lionel , Glover Beverley J.
Published: May 2024

Gorteria diffusa has elaborate petal spots that attract pollinators through sexual deception, but how G. diffusa controls spot development is largely unknown. Here, we investigate how pigmentation is regulated during spot formation.

We determined the anthocyanin composition of G. diffusa petals and combined gene expression analysis with protein interaction assays to characterise R2R3‐MYBs that likely regulate pigment production in G. diffusa petal spots.

We found that cyanidin 3‐glucoside pigments G. diffusa ray floret petals. Unlike other petal regions, spots contain a high proportion of malonylated anthocyanin. We identified three subgroup 6 R2R3‐MYB transcription factors (GdMYBSG6‐1,2,3) that likely activate the production of spot pigmentation. These genes are upregulated in developing spots and induce ectopic anthocyanin production upon heterologous expression in tobacco. Interaction assays suggest that these transcription factors regulate genes encoding three anthocyanin synthesis enzymes.

We demonstrate that the elaboration of complex spots in G. diffusa begins with the accumulation of malonylated pigments at the base of ray floret petals, positively regulated by three paralogous R2R3‐MYB transcription factors. Our results indicate that the functional diversification of these GdMYBSG6s involved changes in the spatial control of their transcription, and modification of the duration of GdMYBSG6 gene expression contributes towards floral variation within the species.
Radiofrequency ablation—Real‐time visualization of lesions and their correlation with underlying parameters
Authors: Bahlke Fabian , Wachter Andreas , Erhard Nico , Englert Florian , Syväri Jan , Krafft Hannah , Popa Miruna , Abdiu Edison , Lennerz Carsten , Telishevska Marta , Lengauer Sarah , Reents Tilko , Hessling Gabriele , Deisenhofer Isabel , Bourier Felix
Published: May 2024

Background

Lesion durability and transmurality are crucial for successful radiofrequency (RF) ablation. This study provides a model of real‐time RF lesion visualization and insights into the role of underlying parameters, as local impedance (LI).

Methods

A force‐sensing, LI‐sensing catheter was used for lesion creation in an ex vivo model involving cross‐sections of porcine cardiac preparations. During 60 s of RF application, one measurement per second was performed regarding lesion size and available ablation parameters. In total, 1847 measurements from n = 36 lesions were performed. Power (20–50 W) and contact force (1–5 g, 10–15 g, 20–25 g) were systematically alternated.

Results

Lesion formation was most prominent in the first seconds of RF application during which nonlinear lesion growth was observed (max. 1.08 mm/s for lesion depth and 2.71 mm/s for lesion diameter). Power levels determined the extent of lesion formation in the early phase. After 20 s, lesion size growth velocity approaches 0.1 mm/s at all power levels. LI changes were also highest in the first seconds (up to – 12 Ω/s) and decreased to less than – 0.1Ω/s after prolonged application.

Conclusion

Lesion formation in irrigated RF ablation is a nonlinear process. Final lesion size resulting from an RF application is mainly influenced by high rates of lesion growth in the first seconds of ablation. LI seems to be a good surrogate for differentiating changes in lesion formation.
Current options in the management of tree nut allergy: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Pasioti Maria , Xepapadaki Paraskevi , Mathioudakis Alexander G. , Lakoumentas John , Efstathiou Elvira , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G.
Published: May 2024

Tree nut allergy is a lifelong and potentially life‐threatening condition. The standard of care is strictly avoiding the culprit nut and treating accidental reactions symptomatically. To evaluate potential therapeutic options for desensitizing patients with IgE‐mediated tree nut allergy, we systematically searched three bibliographic databases for studies published until January 2024. We looked for active treatments of IgE‐mediated allergy to tree nuts (walnut, hazelnut, pistachio, cashew, almond, pecan, macadamia nut, and brazil nut). We focused on allergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) using oral (OIT), sublingual (SLIT), epicutaneous (EPIT), or subcutaneous (SCIT) delivery, or other disease‐modifying treatments. We found 19 studies that met our criteria: 3 studies investigated sublingual immunotherapy, 5 studied oral immunotherapy to a single tree nut, and 6 used multi‐food oral immunotherapy with or without omalizumab. The remaining studies investigated the effectiveness of monoclonal antibodies or IgE‐immunoadsorption in multi‐food allergic patients, including patients with tree nut allergy. The heterogeneity of the studies prevented pooling and meta‐analysis. Oral immunotherapy, single or multi‐nut, with or without omalizumab, was the most studied approach and appears effective in conferring protection from accidental exposures. Omalizumab monotherapy is the only approved alternative management for reducing allergic reactions that may occur with accidental exposure.

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Minimum wages and household income distribution: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Jiwei , Xu Zhigang
Published: May 2024

Based on the 2004–2015 China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) data, this article examines the effect of minimum wages on household income distribution. The results show that minimum wage increases significantly reduce the probability of per capita household net income falling below the poverty threshold, indicating that minimum wage can play a role in poverty reduction. Furthermore, we find that minimum wages significantly reduce the probability of per capita household income being 0–3 times lower than the poverty threshold, but have little effect on households with per capita net income more than 3 times the poverty threshold, which means that minimum wage increases can reduce household income inequality. We also find heterogeneous effects of minimum wage increases on household income distribution across gender, education, hukou, and age of household heads. Finally, we show that minimum wage increases play a role in regulating household income distribution by increasing the wages of employed individuals in households.
What Is Rural Well‐Being and How Is It Measured? An Attempt to Order Chaos*
Authors: Veréb Vanda , Marques Carla , Madureira Livia , Marques Carlos , Keryan Tigran , Silva Rui
Published: May 2024

While a substantial body of literature has been built on rural well‐being, due to the great heterogeneity of rural territories, the literature is highly fragmented, even contradictory. Moreover, no systematic review of the entire domain exists to guide rural decision‐makers. Debated conceptualization, contradicting results, and pressing policy requirements make it timely to deliver a systematized state‐of‐the‐art on rural well‐being to anchor public policies in the rural development domain. By systematically reviewing the scholarly literature on rural well‐being and all documents developed by government and private entities that academia highlighted as relevant to this subject, the study provides a bibliometric and thematic analysis of the domain without a time limit. Thirty‐three rural well‐being dimensions and over 9,000 indicators within these dimensions have been identified, their interconnections established and their relevance to international development goals highlighted. The study presents the structure and content of this indicator database and provides suggestions for rural researchers and policymakers on how to use it to build their own well‐being framework. It also provides an overview of each rural well‐being dimension by discussing the key theories, the main inconsistencies, the most relevant studies and authors, the fundamental measurement frameworks, and the indicators used.
Cytomegalovirus surveillance after antiviral prophylaxis in CMV mismatched transplant patients: Does recurrent cytomegalovirus DNAemia impact patient survival?
Authors: Fernández‐García Oscar A. , Hernandez Cristina , Robbins Mark , Kabbani Dima , Doucette Karen , Cervera Carlos
Published: May 2024

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) mismatched, donor IgG‐positive/recipient IgG‐negative, solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at high risk of CMV invasive disease. Post‐prophylaxis disease is an issue in this population. Some programs employ surveillance after prophylaxis (SAP) to limit the incidence of post‐prophylaxis disease.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective cohort study that included all CMV mismatched SOTRs from 2003 to 2017. Patients underwent SAP with weekly CMV plasma viral load for 12 weeks. The subjects were classified into three post‐prophylaxis DNAemia patterns: no DNAemia, one episode of DNAemia, and multiple episodes of DNAemia. We calculated the cumulative incidence of each DNAemia pattern. We also determined 5‐year mortality based on DNAemia pattern stratified by organ transplant type.

Results

Post‐prophylaxis recurrent DNAemia occurred in 63% of lung recipients and 32% of non‐lung recipients (p =  .003). Tissue invasive CMV disease was diagnosed in 3% of the population and CMV syndrome was diagnosed in 33%. Recurrent DNAemia was not associated with 5‐year mortality.

Conclusion

In this cohort, undergoing SAP tissue invasive disease was uncommon and CMV DNAemia recurrence did not have an impact on long‐term mortality.

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Dissociative Amnesia: Remembrances Under Cover
Authors: Staniloiu Angelica , Markowitsch Hans J.
Published: May 2024

The existence or questionability of “repressed memories” can be discussed as being a matter of definition. It seems, however, far‐fetched to consider all “lost” memories as caused by encoding problems, brain damage, forgetfulness, failure to disclose events, and so on. We argue that dissociative amnesia (DA) (or “psychogenic amnesia,” or “functional amnesia,” or, as we favor to call it, “mnestic block syndrome”) is caused by psychic alterations, but ultimately they can be traced to changes in the physiology of the brain, as we are of the opinion that all memory processes—positive or negative—alter brain functions, sometimes more permanently, sometimes transiently. We have proven this idea using functional imaging techniques, in particular fluoro‐deoxy‐d‐glucose positron emission tomography. Having investigated dozens of patients with severe and long‐lasting DA conditions, we believe it to be disrespectful to many (but not to all) of the affected patients to question their disease condition, which can be proven to be not caused by feigning, malingering, or direct brain damage.
EFA6A, an Exchange Factor for Arf6, RegulatesNGF‐DependentTrkARecycling From Early Endosomes and Neurite Outgrowth inPC12Cells
Authors: Fukaya Masahiro , Ibuchi Kanta , Sugawara Takeyuki , Itakura Makoto , Ito Akiko , Shiroshima Tomoko , Hara Yoshinobu , Okamoto Hirotsugu , Luton Frédéric , Sakagami Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

Endosomal trafficking of TrkA is a critical process for nerve growth factor (NGF)‐dependent neuronal cell survival and differentiation. The small GTPase ADP‐ribosylation factor 6 (Arf6) is implicated in NGF‐dependent processes in PC12 cells through endosomal trafficking and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. However, the regulatory mechanism for Arf6 in NGF signaling is largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that EFA6A, an Arf6‐specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor, was abundantly expressed in PC12 cells and that knockdown of EFA6A significantly inhibited NGF‐dependent Arf6 activation, TrkA recycling from early endosomes to the cell surface, prolonged ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and neurite outgrowth. We also demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA through its N‐terminal region, thereby enhancing its catalytic activity for Arf6. Similarly, we demonstrated that EFA6A forms a protein complex with TrkA in cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Furthermore, cultured DRG neurons from EFA6A knockout mice exhibited disturbed NGF‐dependent TrkA trafficking compared with wild‐type neurons. These findings provide the first evidence for EFA6A as a key regulator of NGF‐dependent TrkA trafficking and signaling.
Retrospective evaluation of the prevalence and risk factors associated with red blood cell transfusions in cats with urethral obstruction (2009–2019): 575 cases
Authors: Solari Francesca P. , Mickelson Megan A. , Bilof James , Odunayo Adesola , McPhetridge Jourdan B. , Scharf Valery F. , Yuan Lingnan , Mochel Jonathan P. , Walton Rebecca A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and factors associated with the need for transfusion in cases of feline urethral obstruction (FUO). Secondarily, to compare survival to discharge in cats receiving an RBC transfusion versus those that did not.

Design

Retrospective, multi‐institutional study from 2009 to 2019.

Setting

Four university teaching hospitals.

Animals

Six hundred twenty‐two total occurrences of FUO in 575 cats.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for pertinent information. The overall prevalence of severe anemia (PCV < 0.20 L/L [<20%]) at presentation was 1.0% (6/622). The prevalence of RBC transfusions during hospitalization was 2.1% (13/622). Cats that received an RBC transfusion weighed significantly less than those that did not (4.9 vs 5.8 kg; P = 0.034) and had a lower PCV at presentation (0.30 L/L [30%] vs 0.41 L/L [41%]; P < 0.001). Hospitalization time (240 vs 72 h) and indwelling urinary catheter time (168 vs 48 h) were significantly longer in cats receiving a transfusion compared with those that did not (P < 0.001). Creatinine concentrations were not significantly associated with transfusion administration, while BUN was higher in cats receiving a transfusion (15.35 mmol/L [43 mg/dL] vs. 11.78 mmol/L [33 mg/dL]; P = 0.043). Transfusion rates were significantly higher in cats undergoing perineal urethrostomy (5.5%) compared with those that did not undergo surgery (0.97%; P < 0.001). The overall survival to discharge rate was 96%. Cats not receiving an RBC transfusion were significantly more likely to survive to discharge than those that did (odds ratio: 14.7, 95% confidence interval: 1.8–37; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

FUO is rarely associated with severe anemia and the need for RBC transfusions. In this study, cats receiving an RBC transfusion were less likely to survive to discharge; therefore, requiring a blood transfusion may be associated with a worse prognosis. In addition, the need for surgical intervention was associated with a higher prevalence of RBC transfusions.
Screening the polymeric membrane toxic metals ion‐selective electrodes with multiple high‐response performances using electrode quality index
Authors: Sun Lingzhi , Sun Chengjun , Sun Xianxiang
Published: May 2024

Toxic metal ion‐selective electrodes (TM‐ISEs) with simultaneously multiple high‐response properties (MHRPs) are urgently needed for continuous monitoring of contaminated water environment. Still, scarce reports exist from research in which electrodes developed possess those properties. To overcome this challenge, we previously proposed an IECQ index method for obtaining a few of Pb2+‐ISEs with MHRPs and a universal approach for selecting referable values of response characteristic ([RC]refer) for normalization. This research aims to select electrodes with MHRPs from 391 collected electrodes for five kinds of TM (Cd, Cu, Hg, Ag or Zn)‐ISEs (TM‐ISEs) reported in the literature, through the IECQ,i indices and the study of the IECQ screening capacity, that is, the magnitude of IECQ coverage. The higher coverages, from 63.60% to 100%, of four categories IECQ,i (IECQ,2B, IECQ,3C, etc.) to electrodes with high performance are observed, indicating their good screening abilities. For eight diverse needs, the 21 screened electrodes have MHRPs, and their excellent performances are comparable with those used in real‐time monitoring. The reliability of the monitored results would be improved if they were applied to the actual detection of TM ions.
Endonormative stabilization in Philippine English lexis
Authors: Biermeier Thomas
Published: May 2024

In the past 10 years, we have seen an enormous increase in the interest in Philippine English (PhilE) vocabulary. This is especially documented by the new entries of distinctive PhilE words in the Oxford English dictionary. Thanks to the rise of electronic mega‐corpora, such as GloWbE and the NOW Corpus, it has become possible to discover even more lexical innovations in PhilE. In this article, I compare nominal and adjectival suffixes across the following varieties of English: India, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, the United States, Canada, New Zealand and Great Britain. The comparisons were carried out on a quantitative and qualitative level, based on the findings in GloWbE, NOW and ICE. Apart from suffixes, the article also discusses less frequent and productive types of word‐formation, such as synthetic compounds and splinters (budgetarian).
The Role of Communication as Agrarian Conflicts Resolution (Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Siregar Ballian , Sumardjo Sumardjo , Sarwoprasodjo Sarwititi , Purnaningsih Ninuk
Published: May 2024

Conflict is a natural reality, an unavoidable fact of life that often gives birth to creativity and fosters the emergence of innovative ideas. Its presence is frequently a catalyst for change. The conflict in this research is communication over the resolution of the Indramayu Farmers Union - Perum Perhutani agrarian land conflict in Indonesia. Conflict always involves differences in values, power, or perception. Communication is essential in developing relationships between two or more entities in conflict. This research method systematically observes scientific journal articles appropriate to the study topic, namely communication on agrarian conflict resolution. This research aims to describe the role of communication in resolving agrarian conflicts, especially agrarian land conflicts. The results of the study show that five (5) essential themes have become new thinking in resolving agrarian conflicts: (1) consistency of legal supremacy; (2) cooperation through mutual agreement; (3) mediation involving actors who can influence government policy and involvement; (4) negotiation by bringing together conflicting parties so that it is easier to convey disclosures; and (5) participatory communication, which places the parties in an equal communication atmosphere.