bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Replicating What Motivates Conflicting Groups to Engage in Competitive Victimhood: The Roles of Need for Power and Need for Morality
Authors: Halabi Samer , Masi Noor , Dovidio John F.
Published: December 2024

Because of the growing evidence pointing to the adverse impact of competitive victimhood on intergroup relations, research has focused on revealing what motivates conflicting groups to engage in competitive victimhood. Whereas Sullivan et al. showed that need for morality—that is, protecting ingroup's moral identity—predicted engagement in competitive victimhood, Kahalon et al. found that when considered simultaneously, need for power was the primary motivator of competitive victimhood. The main objective of the present research was to replicate Kahalon et al.'s Study 1 findings, testing the robustness of their results by conducting it in the context of a unique threat (i.e., COVID‐19). Our results, involving a well‐powered sample of Jews (N = 205) and Arabs (N = 152) living in Israel, demonstrated that while need for morality and need for power individually related to competitive victimhood, when included simultaneously in a regression need for power but not need morality predicted competitive victimhood among members of both a disadvantaged group (Arabs living in Israel) and an advantaged group (Jews living in Israel). Replicating the results from Kahalon et al. in the unique context of the COVID‐19 indicates the persistent position that competitive victimhood plays in Arab‐Jewish intergroup relations and helps to illuminate its underlying dynamics.
SE‐lncRNAs in Cancer: Classification, Subcellular Localisation, Function and Corresponding TFs
Authors: Bao Yuxin , Teng Songling , Zhai Hanjie , Zhang Yuanzhuang , Xu Yeqiu , Li Chenghao , Chen Zhenjun , Ren Fu , Wang Yong
Published: December 2024

Emerging evidence highlights certain long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) transcribed from or interacting with super‐enhancer (SE) regulatory elements. These lncRNAs, known as SE‐lncRNAs, are strongly linked to cancer and regulate cancer progression through multiple interactions with downstream targets. The expression of SE‐lncRNAs is controlled by various transcription factors (TFs), and dysregulation of these TFs can contribute to cancer development. In this review, we discuss the characteristics, classification and subcellular distribution of SE‐lncRNAs and summarise the role of key TFs in the transcription and regulation of SE‐lncRNAs. Moreover, we examine the distinct functions and potential mechanisms of SE‐lncRNAs in cancer progression.
Silybum marianum Extract: A Highly Effective Natural Alternative to Retinoids to Prevent Skin Aging Without Side Effects
Authors: Boira Cloe , Chapuis Emilie , Lapierre Laura , Tiguemounine Jean , Scandolera Amandine , Reynaud Romain
Published: December 2024

Background

Vitamin A, or retinol, is one of the most effective antiaging molecules, but it presents issues with photo‐sensitivity and irritation. Alternatives are emerging, but have so far been less effective.

Objective

Here, we present a Silibum marianum extract (SME) as a retinol‐like ingredient providing both safety and efficacy. SME was compared to the reference compound, retinol, and to the main alternative, bakuchiol.

Methods

Skin explants from a 58‐year‐old donor were treated with pure retinol (0.1%), bakuchiol (0.2%), or SME (0.8%). After 5 days, collagen and hyaluronic acid levels were analyzed. A placebo‐controlled study involving 57 volunteers was also conducted, with products applied twice daily for 56 days. Results were measured by AEVA‐HE and VISA.

Results

Levels of collagen III were significantly increased by SME, by 23% and 16% compared to bakuchiol and retinol respectively. Compared to bakuchiol, SME treatment increased hyaluronic acid production by 36%. In clinical tests, SME had a significantly stronger anti‐wrinkle effect than bakuchiol—reducing the number of wrinkles on the forehead by 21% and their circumference by 17%—producing effects similar to retinol, and better than bakuchiol. In the self‐assessment, 43% of volunteers reported discomfort while using retinol compared to 0% for the SME formulation. By enhancing levels of collagen III—the youth collagen—and hyaluronic acid in the skin, SME paves the way for the maturation of collagen I fibrils and skin plumping.

Conclusion

With its stronger efficacy compared to bakuchiol and enhanced safety profile compared to retinol, SME may be the next generation of natural alternatives to retinoids.
A Pilot One and Two‐Year Prospective, Blinded Clinical Evaluation of Efficacy, and Safety of Combined Treatment With Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler and Barbed Polydioxanone Suspension Threads for Mid‐Face Contour Enhancement
Authors: Wan Jovian , Park Hyun Jin , Choi Ho‐Sung , Yi Kyu‐Ho
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The combination of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers and polydioxanone (PDO) thread lifting is gaining popularity for mid‐face rejuvenation, especially among the Asian population. Despite the common use of these techniques, there is a paucity of long‐term studies assessing their combined efficacy and safety. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined HA filler and PDO thread treatment for mid‐face rejuvenation over a 24‐month period in a Korean population.

Materials and Methods

This prospective, blinded, single‐center, open‐label trial included 11 Korean subjects, aged 29–70 years, with mid‐face volume loss graded 1–4 on the antero‐medial cheek fullness scale. Participants were treated with crosslinked HA dermal fillers and PDO threads. Assessments were conducted using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), investigator‐led clinical evaluations, and volumetric measurements using the Morpheus 3D system at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months post‐treatment.

Results

Quantitative analysis revealed a significant reduction in mid‐face width from an average baseline of 149.27–145.00 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). Similarly, lower‐face width decreased from 130.36 to 117.27 mm at 24 months (p < 0.00001). The GAIS scores demonstrated high levels of subject satisfaction, with 9 out of 11 patients reporting consistent satisfaction or improvement over 24 months. Minimal adverse events were reported, and no serious complications occurred.

Discussion

The combination of HA fillers and PDO threads was effective in achieving and maintaining long‐term improvements in facial volume and contour. The Morpheus 3D system provided objective volumetric data, which supported the subjective improvements observed by patients and investigators. The study results highlight the benefits of ongoing neocollagenesis and tissue remodeling beyond the dissolution period of the materials.

Conclusion

The combination of HA filler injections and PDO thread lifting offers a promising and minimally invasive option for long‐term mid‐face rejuvenation with high patient satisfaction and a favorable safety profile. Further studies are warranted to confirm these findings across diverse populations and compare this approach with other aesthetic treatments.
Estimating National and Foreign Trade Elasticities Using Generalized Transport Costs
Authors: Zofío José L. , Díaz‐Lanchas Jorge , Persyn Damiaan , Barbero Javier
Published: December 2024

We introduce the definition of two distinct trade elasticities corresponding to imports from regions located in the same country (national elasticities) and foreign regions located in other countries (foreign elasticities). We resort to a three‐tier nested CES utility structure to derive the corresponding demand gravity equations. In absence of tariffs within single markets, we identify and recover the elasticities through a precise measure of generalized transport cost that combines economic, engineering, and logistic criteria. Results using PPML estimation methods on EU trade data show that national elasticities double in value their foreign counterparts. Our estimates allow revisiting previous results on border effects, gains from trade, and CGEs.
Society in the Classroom: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Sheehy‐Skeffington Jennifer , Covarrubias Rebecca G. , Croizet Jean‐Claude , Goudeau Sébastien
Published: December 2024

In introducing the special issue, Society in the Classroom: Multilevel Perspectives on Socioeconomic Inequalities in Education, we begin by challenging the assumption that educational institutions are neutral sites merely reflecting socioeconomic inequalities that originate beyond them. Instead, we consider how socioeconomic disparities and biases pervade educational settings and may be perpetuated by the very function of privileging particular standards and practices, a function that is central to institutions serving the dominant societal classes. Compiled 20 years after the last time the Journal of Social Issues focused on the psychology of social class in the context of education, this issue takes stock of research on this topic with a focus on approaches that go beyond the individual level of analysis. Although research reported in the issue is predominantly conducted with majority ethnic samples in the United States and Western Europe, it engages with intersectional concerns by attending to power and interlocking processes of oppression.
Pathogenicity and Biological Characteristics of Botryosphaeria dothidea Causing Branch Blight of Salix babylonica
Authors: Wan Yu , Ju Yue , Li De‐Wei , Zhu Li‐Hua
Published: December 2024

Salix babylonica L. is a popular ornamental and ecological tree species. In this study, the results of pathogenicity tests showed that the Botryosphaeria dothidea isolates JXL1‐3, JXL1‐5, JXL1‐11, L1‐3, L2‐2, NFS1, NFS2, NFS5 and WLS1 were pathogens causing branch blight on S. babylonica. Meanwhile, the B. dothidea isolates JXL1‐11, L1‐3, NFS1 and WLS1 were found to be pathogenic to two other willows, S. chaenomeloides and S. suchowensis. The biological characteristics of B. dothidea isolates JXL1‐11, L1‐3, NFS1 and WLS1 were investigated under different conditions, including culture media, pH, temperatures, carbon/nitrogen sources and light. It was found that potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium was the most optimal medium for the B. dothidea isolates JXL1‐11, L1‐3, NFS1 and WLS1 mycelial growth, the suitable pH was 4, and the optimal temperatures were 25°C–30°C. The optimal carbon sources were glucose and sucrose, and the optimal nitrogen sources were ammonium sulfate and peptone. The optimal light condition for inducing sporulation was dark + ultraviolet light. This study provides a fundamental basis for the prevention and control the branch blight on willows and further studies.
Retrospective cohort study on diseases and risk factors associated with death in hospitalized neonatal foals
Authors: Castelain Donatienne L. , Dufourni Alexander , Pas Mathilde L. , Bokma Jade , de Bruijn Eva , Paulussen Ellen , Lefère Laurence , van Loon Gunther , Pardon Bart
Published: December 2024

Background

The care of sick neonatal foals is labor‐intensive and costly. Prediction of risk of death upon admission is often difficult but might support decision‐making.

Objectives

To determine diseases and risk factors associated with death in neonatal hospitalized foals.

Animals

Two hundred twenty‐two hospitalized foals, ≤7 days old.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. Clinical and laboratory variables were evaluated for their association with death by means of Cox survival analysis and by classification and regression tree (CART) analysis.

Results

Most prevalent diseases were sepsis (43.9%), enteritis (14.0%), and omphalitis (9.0%). Case fatality rate was 33.3%. Neonatal sepsis significantly increased the risk of death (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2‐3.0; P = .009). Multivariable Cox regression in foals ≤7 days old revealed comatose mental state (HR = 2.9; 95% CI = 1.1‐8.1; P = .04), L‐lactatemia (≥373.8 mg/L [4.2 mmol/L]; HR = 4.4; 95% CI = 1.7‐11.7; P = .003) and increased serum amyloid A (SAA; ≥2054 μg/mL; HR = 3.9; 95% CI = 1.2‐12.7; P = .02) as risk factors for death, with a sensitivity and specificity of 7.5% and 95.7%, respectively. The CART analysis highlighted L‐lactatemia, comatose mental state, and hypercapnia as risk factors for death, with a sensitivity of 38.1% and specificity of 86.1% after validation.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In this study sample, sepsis was associated with the highest risk of death. Identified risk factors such as SAA, L‐lactate, and comatose mental state might guide veterinarians and owners in better decision‐making for economic or welfare reasons. Frequently measured laboratory variables, such as blood glucose concentration and Immunoglobulin G, were not sensitive and specific enough to provide reliable decision support for survival estimation.
Engineering a robust Cas12i3 variant‐mediated wheat genome editing system
Authors: Wang Wenxue , Yan Lei , Li Jingying , Zhang Chen , He Yubing , Li Shaoya , Xia Lanqin
Published: December 2024

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L., 2n = 6x = 42, AABBDD) is one of the most important food crops in the world. CRISPR/Cas12i3, which belongs to the type V‐I Cas system, has attracted extensive attention recently due to its smaller protein size and its less‐restricted canonical ‘TTN’ protospacer adjacent motif (PAM). However, due to its relatively lower editing efficacy in plants and the hexaploidy complex nature of wheat, Cas12i3/Cas12i3‐5M‐mediated genome editing in wheat has not been documented yet. Here, we report the engineering of a robust Cas12i3‐5M‐mediated genome editing system in wheat through the fusion of T5 exonuclease (T5E) in combination with an optimised crRNA expression strategy (Opt). We first showed that fusion of T5E, rather than ExoI, to Cas12i3‐5M increased the gene editing efficiencies by up to 1.34‐fold and 3.87‐fold, compared to Cas12i3‐5M and Cas12i3 in HEK293T cells, respectively. However, its editing efficiency remains low in wheat. We then optimised the crRNA expression strategy and demonstrated that Opt‐T5E‐Cas12i3‐5M could enhance the editing efficiency by 1.20‐ to 1.33‐fold and 4.05‐ to 7.95‐fold in wheat stable lines compared to Opt‐Cas12i3‐5M and Opt‐Cas12i3, respectively, due to progressive 5′‐end resection of the DNA strand at the cleavage site with increased deletion size. The Opt‐T5E‐Cas12i3‐5M enabled an editing efficiency ranging from 60.71% to 90.00% across four endogenous target genes in stable lines of three elite Chinese wheat varieties. Together, the developed robust Opt‐T5E‐Cas12i3‐5M system enriches wheat genome editing toolkits for either biological research or genetic improvement and may be extended to other important polyploidy crop species.
The transcription factor OsNAC25 regulates potassium homeostasis in rice
Authors: Wang Chen , Song Shaowen , Fu Jun , Wang Kai , Chen Xuan , Bo Bin , Chen Zhe , Zhang Linan , Zhang Lin , Wang Xiaohui , Tang Niwen , Tian Xiangrong , Chen Liangbi , Luan Sheng , Yang Yuanzhu , Mao Dandan
Published: December 2024

Over‐application of potassium (K) fertilizer in fields has a negative impact on the environment. Developing rice varieties with high KUE will reduce fertilizer for sustainable agriculture. However, the genetic basis of KUE in a more diverse and inclusive population remains largely unexplored. Here, we show that the transcription factor OsNAC25 enhances K+ uptake and confers high KUE under low K+ supply. Disruption of OsNAC25 by CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis led to a considerable loss of K+ uptake capacity in rice roots, coupled with reduced K+ accumulation in rice and severe plant growth defects under low‐ K+ conditions. However, the overexpression of OsNAC25 enhanced K+ accumulation by regulating proper K+ uptake capacity in rice roots. Further analysis displayed that OsNAC25 can bind to the promoter of OsSLAH3 to repress its transcription in response to low‐ K+ stress. Nucleotide diversity analyses suggested that OsNAC25 may be selected during japonica populations' adaptation of low K+ tolerance. Natural variation of OsNAC25 might cause differential expression in different haplotype varieties, thus conferring low K+ tolerance in the Hap 1 and Hap 4 ‐carrying varieties, and the japonica allele OsNAC25 could enhance low K+ tolerance in indica variety, conferring great potential to improve indica low K+ tolerance and grain development. Taken together, we have identified a new NAC regulator involved in rice low K+ tolerance and grain development, and provide a potential target gene for improving low K+ tolerance and grain development in rice.
WRKY1‐Mediated Interconversion of MeSA and SA in Neighbouring Apple Plants Enhances Defence Against Powdery Mildew
Authors: Lan Liming , Zhang Lulu , Cao Lifang , Wang Sanhong
Published: December 2024

Powdery mildew (PM), caused by the biotrophic fungus Podospharea leucotricha, is a major threat to apple production. Plant–plant communication (PPC) is a crucial strategy for plant communities to enhance their defence against pathogens. The interconversion of methyl salicylate (MeSA) and salicylic acid (SA) is critical for PPC regulation, but the mechanism of MeSA‐mediated PPC is not fully understood. This study reveals a significant increase in SA and MeSA levels in neighbouring plants (receivers) following PM attack on emitter plants, activating defence responses in receivers. Notably, the expression of WRKY1, a previously characterized transcription factor, was upregulated in receivers, implicating its role in defence response modulation. WRKY1 was found to promote SA accumulation and enhance PM resistance in receivers. Importantly, WRKY1 positively regulates the expression of SABP2a, which catalysers MeSA to SA conversion, and negatively regulates SAMT1a, which functions in the reverse reaction. Consequently, WRKY1 facilitates the conversion of MeSA to SA in receivers, preventing its reversion and sustaining elevated SA levels. Collectively, our findings clarify the role of WRKY1 in enhancing the defence response to PM in receivers.
Concentric‐Ring Patterns of Higher‐Order Lumps in the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili I Equation
Authors: Yang Bo , Yang Jianke
Published: December 2024

Large‐time patterns of general higher‐order lump solutions in the Kadomtsev–Petviashvili I (KP‐I) equation are investigated. It is shown that when the index vector of the general lump solution is a sequence of consecutive odd integers starting from one, the large‐time pattern in the spatial ‐plane generically would comprise fundamental lumps uniformly distributed on concentric rings. For other index vectors, the large‐time pattern would comprise fundamental lumps in the outer region as described analytically by the nonzero‐root structure of the associated Wronskian–Hermite polynomial, together with possible fundamental lumps in the inner region that are uniformly distributed on concentric rings generically. Leading‐order predictions of fundamental lumps in these solution patterns are also derived. The predicted patterns at large times are compared to true solutions, and good agreement is observed.
Biosynthesis of elemicin and isoelemicin in Daucus carota leaves
Authors: Huang Xing‐Qi , Yahyaa Mosaab , Kongala Prasada Rao , Maoz Itay , Dudareva Natalia , Ibdah Mwafaq
Published: December 2024

Volatile phenylpropenes comprise one of the largest groups of plant phenylalanine‐derived volatiles that not only possess ecological roles but also exhibit numerous pharmacological activities. Despite their wide distribution in the plant kingdom, biosynthesis of only a small subset of these compounds has been discovered. Here, we elucidated yet unknown steps in the biosynthesis of isoelemicin and elemicin using carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus), which produces a wide spectrum of volatile phenylpropenes, as a model system. Comparative transcriptomic analysis combined with metabolic profiling of two carrot cultivars producing different spectrums and levels of phenylpropene compounds revealed that biosynthesis of isoelemicin and elemicin could proceed via the (iso)eugenol‐independent pathway, which diverges from the lignin biosynthetic pathway after sinapyl alcohol. Moreover, in planta results showed that two different NADPH‐dependent reductases, a newly identified 5‐methoxy isoeugenol synthase (DcMIS) and previously characterized (iso)eugenol synthase (DcE(I)GS1), both of which use sinapyl acetate as a substrate, are responsible for the biosynthesis of immediate precursors of isoelemicin and elemicin, respectively. In contrast to penultimate reactions, the final steps in the formation of these phenylpropenes are catalyzed by the same newly characterized methyltransferase, S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine:5‐methoxy(iso)eugenol O‐methyltransferase, that methylates the para‐hydroxyl group of their respective precursors, thus completing the (iso)eugenol‐independent route for the biosynthesis of isoelemicin and elemicin.
The Hansen's baccata #2 gene Rvi12_Cd5 confers scab resistance to the susceptible apple cultivar “Gala Galaxy”
Authors: Yousaf Ayesha , Baldi Paolo , Piazza Stefano , Gualandri Valeria , Komjanc Matteo , Dalla Costa Lorenza , Patocchi Andrea , Malnoy Mickael
Published: December 2024

To enhance the breeding of new scab‐resistant apple cultivars, a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms governing major scab resistance genes is essential. Rvi12_Cd5 was previously identified as the best candidate gene for the Rvi12 scab resistance of the crab apple “Hansen's baccata #2” by gene prediction and in silico analysis. In the present study, Rvi12_Cd5 was used to transform the scab‐susceptible apple cultivar “Gala Galaxy.” Two constructs were prepared: the first carrying Rvi12_Cd5 under the control of a 35S promoter and E9 terminator, and the second carrying Rvi12_Cd5 under the control of its native promoter and terminator. All the transgenic lines were analyzed for T‐DNA integration, copy number, and expression of Rvi12_Cd5 and phenotypically evaluated for scab resistance. The “Gala Galaxy” lines carrying the 35S promoter expressed Rvi12_Cd5 at a high level, showing partial to high resistance against a mixed inoculum of Venturia inaequalis, with symptoms ranging from class 0 to 3b on the Chevalier scale. The transgenic lines carrying the native promoter showed a lower expression of Rvi12_Cd5 compared with the 35S lines. Nevertheless, the low expression was sufficient to induce a resistance level comparable to that of the transgenic lines carrying the 35S promoter. These results indicate that Rvi12_Cd5 confers scab resistance to a susceptible apple cultivar and that even a low level of gene transcript can trigger a plant response to V. inaequalis infection. After HcrVf2 and Vr2‐C, Rvi12_Cd5 is the third major apple scab resistance gene being functionally proven.
Behind the Advanced Placement (AP) Curtain: Disproportionality in Hispanic AP Exam Completion
Authors: Palencia Virginia
Published: December 2024

While many researchers are well-versed in AP gaps and equity, one area in particular impacts Hispanic students and remains underexplored: the AP completion gap. In this study, AP completion is analyzed by two factors: taking the AP exam and passing the AP with a score of 3 or higher. Through a secondary data analysis of the Civil Rights Data Collection [CRDC] (2017) and College Board (2017) data, this study demonstrated disproportionality in taking the exam between Hispanic students and Asian students in suburban schools. Additionally, there was also a statistically significant difference in Hispanic pass and fail scores by type of exam compared to Asian and White students. These findings reveal the need to evaluate AP exam policy, especially in regard to success completion of AP coursework.
Monotone versus non‐monotone projective operators
Authors: Aguilera J. P. , Welch P. D.
Published: December 2024

For a class of operators , let denote the closure ordinal of ‐inductive definitions. We give upper bounds on the values of and under the assumption that all projective sets of reals are determined, significantly improving the known results. In particular, the bounds show that and hold for under the assumption of projective determinacy. Some of these inequalities were obtained by Aanderaa in the 70s via recursion‐theoretic methods but never appeared in print. Our proofs are model‐theoretic.
The effect of body position on cardiovascular, skeletal muscle and ventilatory responses to submaximal cycling
Authors: Bentley Robert F. , Bernal Jonaline B. , Basile Daniel C. , Di Salvo Adam N. , Schwartz Jacob L.
Published: December 2024

The completion of exercise in different body positions can impact the function of various components of the oxygen delivery pathway; however, the effect of the haemodynamic conditions induced by a semi‐upright body position on the integrative physiological response to exercise is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of a semi‐upright body position on cardiac output (CO), vastus lateralis oxygen saturation (), oxygen consumption () and ratings of perceived exertion (Borg RPE) during submaximal cycling. Twenty healthy individuals (22 ± 3 years, 50% female) each completed alternating 5‐min bouts of submaximal upright and semi‐upright (40° incline) cycling at 50 and 100 W. CO, , and RPE were assessed at rest and at each exercise intensity during steady state. There was a main effect of intensity on the increase in CO, , and RPE (all P < 0.001). In a semi‐upright position, the increase in CO (7.9 ± 2.8 vs. 6.4 ± 2.6 L/min, P < 0.001), RPE (median (interquartile range): 11 (9–13) vs. 10 (8–12), P = 0.013) and the decrease in (−38 ± 23 vs. −21% ± 18%, P < 0.001) were greater than upright, while the increase in was attenuated (1.030 ± 0.130 vs. 1.154 ± 0.165 L/min, P < 0.001). These results suggest that while a semi‐upright body position produces elevations in CO, these elevations do not seem to perfuse the active skeletal muscle. This may explain the elevation in RPE despite a blunting in the increase in . Further work is required to understand the effects of a semi‐upright exercise position on skeletal muscle activation and lower limb blood flow.
Autonomic modulation with mindfulness‐based stress reduction in chronic kidney disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jeong Jinhee , Hu Yingtian , Zanuzzi Matias , DaCosta Dana , Sabino‐Carvalho Jeann L. , Li Sabrina , Park Jeanie
Published: December 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) that leads to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme on SNS activity in CKD patients. Participants with CKD stages III–IV were randomized to the 8 week MBSR programme or Health Enhancement Program (HEP; a structurally parallel, active control group). Intraneural measures of SNS activity directed to muscle [muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA)] via microneurography was recorded at rest and during stress manoeuvres (mental arithmetic, handgrip exercise and cold pressor test). Data analyses were performed based on the intent‐to‐treat principle. In total, 29 participants (64 ± 9 years; 86% males) completed the intervention with 17 in the MBSR and 12 in the HEP groups. There was a significant Group (MBSR vs. HEP) by Time (baseline vs. post‐intervention) interaction in MSNA reactivity to mental stress (P = 0.029), with a significant reduction in the mean ∆MSNA over 3 min of mental arithmetic at post‐intervention (10.3 ± 4.2–5.9 ± 5.6 bursts/min, P < 0.001; Hedges’ g = −0.858, 95% confidence interval [−1.578, −0.167]), while no change was observed within the HEP group (P = 0.818). Reduced ∆MSNA during handgrip exercise was also observed, while ∆MSNA during the cold pressor test and resting MSNA remained unchanged in both groups from baseline to post‐intervention. In this randomized controlled trial, patients with CKD had a reduction of sympathetic reactivity during mental stress and static handgrip exercise following 8 weeks of MBSR but not after HEP. Our findings demonstrate that mindfulness training is feasible and may have clinically beneficial effects on autonomic function in CKD.

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Key points

Question: Does the Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme reduce sympathetic activity in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD)?

Finding: In this randomized controlled trial including 29 patients with CKD, 8 weeks of MBSR decreased sympathetic reactivity to mental stress compared to the control Health Enhancement Program (HEP).

Meaning: These finding suggest that mindfulness training may have clinically beneficial effects on autonomic function in CKD.
Nonlinear interaction of an acoustical wave with a counter-propagating weak shock
Authors: Coulouvrat François , Delalande Ronan , Ducousso Mathieu
Published: December 2024

During its propagation, a shock wave may come across and interact with different perturbations, including acoustical waves. While this issue has been the subject of many studies, the particular acoustic-acoustic interaction between a weak shock and a sound wave has been very scarcely investigated. Here, a theory describing the encounter of those two waves is developed, up to second- and third-order. According to the incidence angle and shock strength, several regimes of acoustic transmission through the shock are identified. The generation of entropy as well as vorticity modes are determined, while the perturbation of the shock front by the acoustic wave is quantified. The theory predicts strongly different behaviors between air and water, and preliminary results are coherent with recent experimental observations in solids. It paves the way to both an acoustic monitoring of shock wave as well as a method to determine the quadratic and cubic nonlinear parameters of material.
Modelling acoustic propagation in realistic ocean through a time-domain environment-resolving ocean model
Authors: Dumont Pierre-Antoine , Auclair Francis , Stéphan Yann , Dumas Franck
Published: December 2024

The new generation of non-hydrostatic and compressible numerical models of the ocean can explicitly simulate acoustic waves when and where space and time resolution is adapted. We show that these models can consequently propagate accurately acoustic waves and modes through a free-surface, stratified ocean evolving simultaneously both in space and time, bringing them to the state of the art of acoustic propagation modelling. To some extent, both numerical cost and memory footprint may temper their range of applications but they are an unprecedented tool to evaluate deterministically the effects of ocean variability on low-frequency acoustic propagation in a realistically-evolving ocean. This potential is illustrated by two examples of three-dimensional propagation: the wedge benchmark and Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities.
Structural basis for nuclear import of adeno-associated virus serotype 6 capsid protein
Authors: Hoad Mikayla , Nematollahzadeh Sepehr , Petersen Gayle F. , Roby Justin A. , Alvisi Gualtiero , Forwood Jade K.
Published: December 2024

Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are the most extensively researched viral vectors for gene therapy globally. The AAV viral protein 1 (VP1) N-terminus controls the capsid’s ability to translocate into the cell nucleus; however, the exact mechanism of this process is largely unknown. In this study, we sought to elucidate the precise interactions between AAV serotype 6 (AAV6), a promising vector for immune disorders, and host transport receptors responsible for vector nuclear localization. Focusing on the positively charged basic areas within the N-terminus of AAV6 VP1, we identified a 53-amino acid region that interacts with nuclear import receptors. We measured the binding affinities between this region and various nuclear import receptors, discovering a notably strong interaction with IMPα5 and IMPα7 in the low nanomolar range. We also elucidated the X-ray crystal structure of this region in complex with an importin alpha (IMPα) isoform, uncovering its binding as a bipartite nuclear localization signal (NLS). Furthermore, we show that using this bipartite NLS, AAV6 VP1 capsid protein can localize to the nucleus of mammalian cells in a manner dependent on the IMPα/IMPβ nuclear import pathway. This study provides detailed insights into the interaction between the AAV6 VP1 capsid protein and nuclear import receptors, deepening our knowledge of AAV nuclear import mechanisms and establishing a basis for the improvement of AAV6-based gene therapy vectors.

IMPORTANCE

AAVs, recognized as the most extensively researched viral vectors for gene therapy globally, offer significant advantages over alternatives due to their small size, non-pathogenic nature, and innate ability for tissue-specific targeting. AAVs are required to localize to the nucleus to perform their role as a gene therapy vector; however, the precise mechanisms that facilitate this process remain unknown. Despite sharing overt genomic similarities with AAV1 and AAV2, AAV6 is a unique serotype. It is currently recognized for its ability to effectively transduce hematopoietic cell lineages and, consequently, is considered promising for the treatment of immune disorders. Identifying the exact mechanisms that permit AAV6 to access the nucleus can open up new avenues for gene therapy vector engineering, which can ultimately lead to increased therapeutic benefits.
A gut-derived
Streptococcus salivarius
produces the novel nisin variant designated nisin G and inhibits
Fusobacterium nucleatum
in a model of the human distal colon microbiome
Authors: Lawrence Garreth W. , Garcia-Gutierrez Enriqueta , O’Mahony A. Kate , Walsh Calum J. , O'Connor Paula M. , Begley Máire , Guinane Caitriona M. , Cotter Paul D.
Published: December 2024

Fusobacterium nucleatum
is a human pathogen associated with intestinal conditions including colorectal cancer. Screening for gut-derived strains that exhibit anti-
F
.
nucleatum
activity
in vitro
revealed
Streptococcus salivarius
DPC6487 as a strain of interest. Whole-genome sequencing of
S. salivarius
DPC6487 identified a nisin operon with a novel structural variant designated nisin G. The structural nisin G peptide differs from the prototypical nisin A with respect to seven amino acids (Ile4Tyr, Ala15Val, Gly18Ala, Asn20His, Met21Leu, His27Asn, and His31Ile), including differences that have not previously been associated with a natural nisin variant. The nisin G gene cluster consists of
nsgGEFABTCPRK
with transposases encoded between the nisin G structural gene (
nsgA
) and
nsgF
, notably lacking an equivalent to the
nisI
immunity determinant.
S. salivarius
DPC6487 exhibited a narrower spectrum of activity
in vitro
compared to the nisin A-producing
Lactococcus lactis
NZ9700. Nisin G-producing
S. salivarius
DPC6487 demonstrated the ability to control
F. nucleatum
DSM15643 in an
ex vivo
model colonic environment while exerting minimal impact on the surrounding microbiota. The production of this bacteriocin by a gut-derived
S. salivarius
, its narrow-spectrum activity, and its anti-
F. nucleatum
activity in a model colonic environment indicates that this strain merits further attention with a view to harnessing its probiotic potential.

IMPORTANCE

Fusobacterium nucleatum
is a human pathogen associated with intestinal conditions, including colorectal cancer, making it a potentially important therapeutic target. Bacteriocin-producing probiotic bacteria demonstrate the potential to target disease-associated taxa
in situ
in the gut. A gut-derived strain
Streptococcus salivarius
DPC6487 was found to demonstrate anti-
F
.
nucleatum
activity, which was attributable to a gene encoding a novel nisin variant designated nisin G. Nisin G-producing
S. salivarius
DPC6487 demonstrated the ability to control an infection of
F. nucleatum
in a simulated model of the human distal colon while exerting minimal impact on the surrounding microbiota. Here, we describe this nisin variant produced by
S. salivarius
, a species that is frequently a focus for probiotic development. The production of nisin G by a gut-derived
S. salivarius
, its narrow-spectrum activity against
F. nucleatum
, and its anti-
F
.
nucleatum
activity in a model colonic environment warrants further research to determine its probiotic-related applications.
Development of Behçet’s disease on maintenance therapy for autoimmune hepatitis
Authors: Thieroff George , Bartholow Samantha Jane , Kilian Adam
Published: December 2024

Behçet’s disease is a clinical diagnosis with variable presentations. Liver involvement is rare in the absence of vascular complications. We describe a patient diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and autoimmune hepatitis on azathioprine who developed extensive aphthous ulcers approximately 10 years later. She was initially diagnosed with an overlap autoimmune connective tissue disorder in the setting of a positive anti-Ro antibody. Symptoms did not resolve with prednisone, hydroxychloroquine or mycophenolate mofetil. She subsequently developed pseudofolliculitis, erythema nodosum-like lesions, large cutaneous ulcers and pathergy phenomenon at sites of venipuncture consistent with Behçet’s disease. She was successfully treated with infliximab, azathioprine, colchicine and apremilast. This case represents an unusual sequence of autoimmune conditions and a diagnostic challenge.
Porcelain appendix: a rare mimicker of the acute abdomen
Authors: Sathiyamoorthi Nilosh , Maduranga Loku Singham Kutti Kankanamlage Pri , Thomas Sabu , Vyas Vipul
Published: December 2024

An appendiceal mucocele is a rare clinical entity often mimicking that of acute appendicitis in a majority of cases leading to incidental intraoperative findings. Nevertheless, appropriate diagnosis is vital prior to surgery to prevent complications such as pseudomyxoma peritonei. This report details a case of a man in his 70s, who was admitted to the emergency department with right iliac fossa pain with imaging showing wall thickening of the caecum and the ascending colon. During surgery, a calcified appendix raised the suspicion of a neoplastic process leading to a right hemicolectomy. The histology revealed a low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm.
Endovascular treatment of high-flow carotid-cavernous fistula secondary to rupture of a carotid-cavernous aneurysm post-flow diverter stent placement
Authors: Vásconez Muñoz Fausto A , Moreu Manuel , Rosati Santiago , Vásconez Muñoz Jossué M
Published: December 2024

Carotid-cavernous aneurysms (CCAs) have the potential for growth, and their risk of rupture can lead to severe complications. Treatment is typically recommended to prevent these complications, with endovascular therapy being the preferred approach due to the challenging surgical access. This case presents a rare instance of rupture of a CCA that had been previously treated with a flow-diverting stent, which resulted in the development of a carotid-cavernous fistula, requiring venous access endovascular treatment. Our patient experienced persistent neurological deficits following treatment, specifically paralysis of the IV cranial nerve and palpebral ptosis, underscoring the complex nature of such cases and the potential for lasting complications despite intervention.
Impact of postpartum exercise on pelvic floor disorders and diastasis recti abdominis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Beamish Nicole F , Davenport Margie H , Ali Muhammad Usman , Gervais Matthew J , Sjwed Talia Noel , Bains Gyanjot , Sivak Allison , Deering Rita E , Ruchat Stephanie-May
Published: December 2024

Objective

To examine the effect of exercise during the first year postpartum on pelvic floor disorders and diastasis recti abdominis.

Design

Systematic review with random effects meta-analysis.

Data sources: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscuss, Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews (Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched until 12 January 2024.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Studies of all designs (except case studies) and languages were included if they contained information on the Population (individuals in the first year postpartum), Intervention (subjective or objective measures of frequency, intensity, duration, volume or type of exercise alone (‘exercise-only’) or in combination with other intervention (eg, biofeedback; ‘exercise+co-intervention’)), Comparator (no exercise or different exercise measures) and Outcome (symptom severity and risk of urinary incontinence, anal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis recti abdominis and sexual function).

Results

65 studies (n=21 334 participants) from 24 countries were included. ‘Moderate’ certainty of evidence revealed that pelvic floor muscle training reduced the odds of urinary incontinence by 37% (seven randomised controlled trials (RCTs), n=1930; OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.97, I272%) and pelvic organ prolapse by 56% (one RCT, n=123; OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.91) compared with control groups. ‘Low’ certainty of evidence showed a greater reduction in inter-rectus distance measured at rest and during a head lift following abdominal muscle training compared with no exercise. Evidence on the effect of exercise on the risk of anal incontinence and diastasis recti abdominis, as well as the severity of anal incontinence, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and sexual function, is limited.

Conclusion

Evidence supports the effectiveness of postpartum pelvic floor muscle training in reducing the odds of urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse and postpartum abdominal exercise training in reducing inter-rectus distance.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022359282.
Cost-effectiveness of integrating paediatric tuberculosis services into child healthcare services in Africa: a modelling analysis of a cluster-randomised trial
Authors: Mafirakureva Nyashadzaishe , Denoeud-Ndam Lise , Tchounga Boris Kevin , Otieno-Masaba Rose , Herrera Nicole , Mukherjee Sushant , Casenghi Martina , Tiam Appolinaire , Dodd Peter J
Published: December 2024

Background

In 2021, over one million children developed tuberculosis, resulting in 214 000 deaths, largely due to inadequate diagnosis and treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis is limited in most high-burden countries because services are highly centralised at secondary/tertiary levels and are managed in a vertical, non-integrated way. To improve case detection and treatment among children, the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends decentralised and integrated tuberculosis care models. The Integrating Paediatric TB Services Into Child Healthcare Services in Africa (INPUT) stepped-wedge cluster-randomised trial evaluated the impact of integrating tuberculosis services into healthcare for children under five in Cameroon and Kenya, compared with usual care, finding a 10-fold increase in tuberculosis case detection in Cameroon but no effect in Kenya.

Methods

We estimated intervention impact on healthcare outcomes, resource use, health system costs and cost-effectiveness relative to the standard of care (SoC) using a decision tree analytical approach and data from the INPUT trial. INPUT trial data on cascades, resource use and intervention diagnostic rate ratios were used to parametrise the decision tree model. Health outcomes following tuberculosis treatment were modelled in terms of mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs).

Findings

For every 100 children starting antituberculosis treatment under SoC, an additional 876 (95% uncertainty interval (UI) −76 to 5518) in Cameroon and −6 (95% UI −61 to 96) in Kenya would start treatment under the intervention. Treatment success would increase by 5% in Cameroon and 9% in Kenya under the intervention compared with SoC. An estimated 350 (95% UI −31 to 2204) and 3 (95% UI −22 to 48) deaths would be prevented in Cameroon and Kenya, respectively. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for the intervention compared with SoC was US$506 and US$1299 per DALY averted in Cameroon and Kenya, respectively.

Interpretation

Although likely to be effective, the cost-effectiveness of integrating tuberculosis services into child healthcare services depends on baseline service coverage, tuberculosis detection and treatment outcomes.
Cerebral gas embolism and multifocal ischemic stroke during oxygen-ozone therapy: a case report
Authors: Khosravi Sepehr , Mirzaasgari Zahra
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Ischaemic stroke, primarily caused by thromboembolic events, typically arises as a consequence of underlying vascular or cardiac pathology. Non-thrombotic embolic strokes, although rare, are increasingly seen in interventional and intravascular procedures. Oxygen-ozone therapy (OOT) is one of the popular treatments for lumbar disc herniation, providing pain relief. However, it has been linked to gas embolisms, posing severe risks. This article details a case of cerebral gas embolism and multifocal acute ischaemic stroke that occurred during OOT for lumbar disc herniation pain relief.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 58-year-old woman with acute onset limb weakness and speech disturbance that happened during a lumbar intradiscal oxygen-ozone injection session. Brain CT and MRI scans showed multiple cerebral gas embolisms and diffusion-restricted areas in both cerebral hemispheres. Echocardiography revealed a patent foramen ovale, hinting at a conduit for paradoxical embolism. Follow-up of the patient after 1 year showed significant improvement.

Conclusion

OOT, as a popular treatment for chronic pain, has been associated with severe adverse events. When facing cases of acute postoperative or postinterventional encephalopathy or stroke, arterial cerebral gas embolism should be considered a possibility. The presence of intracardiac defects or intrapulmonary shunts paves the way for paradoxical emboli to happen, resulting in a higher chance of neurological complications.