bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of individual‐level obesity treatment in paediatrics: A scoping review
Authors: Dhillon Ashwin , Mayer Madeline , Kysh Lynn , Fox D. Steven , Hegedus Elizabeth , Vidmar Alaina P.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This scoping review informs a health economics perspective on the treatment of paediatric obesity. The results detail recently published research findings on the cost‐effectiveness of paediatric obesity treatments and identify key characteristics of cost‐effective interventions.

Methods

A structured search was applied to six databases with no data restriction through March 2023: Medline, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. Studies that included a cost analysis of an individual level, weight management intervention (behavioural, pharmacotherapy, and surgical) in youth, with obesity, ages 2 to 21 years were eligible for inclusion.

Results

Of the 4371 records identified in the initial search, 353 underwent full‐text review, 39 studies met the pre‐specified inclusion criteria. The majority were published after 2010 (n = 36/39, 92%) and applied to high‐income countries (n = 39/39, 100%). Thirty‐five of the studies assessed the cost‐effectiveness of lifestyle interventions (90%), and four studies assessed surgical outcomes (10%). No pharmacotherapy studies met eligibility criteria. Although the outcome measures differed across the studies, all four surgical interventions were reported to be cost‐effective. Thirty of the 35 (85%) lifestyle modification studies were reported to be cost‐effective compared to the study comparator examined.

Conclusions

There is a small amount of evidence that individual‐level paediatric obesity treatment interventions are cost‐effective and, in some cases cost‐saving, with most of this work conducted on behavioural interventions. The economic evaluation of paediatric obesity interventions poses various methodologic challenges, which should be addressed in future research to fully use the potential of economic evaluation as an aid to decision‐making.
Genome characterization of influenza A and B viruses in New South Wales, Australia, in 2019: A retrospective study using high‐throughput whole genome sequencing
Authors: Wang Xinye , Kim Ki Wook , Walker Gregory , Stelzer‐Braid Sacha , Scotch Matthew , Rawlinson William D.
Published: January 2024

Background

During the 2019 severe influenza season, New South Wales (NSW) experienced the highest number of cases in Australia. This study retrospectively investigated the genetic characteristics of influenza viruses circulating in NSW in 2019 and identified genetic markers related to antiviral resistance and potential virulence.

Methods

The complete genomes of influenza A and B viruses were amplified using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced with an Illumina MiSeq platform.

Results

When comparing the sequencing data with the vaccine strains and reference sequences, the phylogenetic analysis revealed that most NSW A/H3N2 viruses (n = 68; 94%) belonged to 3C.2a1b and a minority (n = 4; 6%) belonged to 3C.3a. These viruses all diverged from the vaccine strain A/Switzerland/8060/2017. All A/H1N1pdm09 viruses (n = 20) showed genetic dissimilarity from vaccine strain A/Michigan/45/2015, with subclades 6B.1A.5 and 6B.1A.2 identified. All B/Victoria‐lineage viruses (n = 21) aligned with clade V1A.3, presenting triple amino acid deletions at positions 162–164 in the hemagglutinin protein, significantly diverging from the vaccine strain B/Colorado/06/2017. Multiple amino acid substitutions were also found in the internal proteins of influenza viruses, some of which have been previously reported in hospitalized influenza patients in Thailand. Notably, the oseltamivir‐resistant marker H275Y was present in one immunocompromised patient infected with A/H1N1pdm09 and the resistance‐related mutation I222V was detected in another A/H3N2‐infected patient.

Conclusions

Considering antigenic drift and the constant evolution of circulating A and B strains, we believe continuous monitoring of influenza viruses in NSW via the high‐throughput sequencing approach provides timely and pivotal information for both public health surveillance and clinical treatment.
Significant impact of TiO2 purity on the phase structure and electrical properties of BiFeO3–BaTiO3 lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics
Authors: Chen Xiaoxin , Qin Hailan , Li Hongtian , Du Yuxiao , Wang Shenghao , Li Peifeng , Hu Yongming , Liu Laijun , Zhao Jianwei , Wang Dawei
Published: January 2024

In many studies, the properties of BiFeO3–BaTiO3 (BF–BT) ceramics vary greatly using different raw reagents, which makes it challenging to obtain reliable and repeatable properties of BF–BT‐based devices. In this work, 0.7BiFeO3–0.3BaTiO3 (0.7BF–0.3BT) ceramics were fabricated by a conventional solid‐phase synthesis using TiO2 reagents with varied purities of 98%, 99%, 99.9%, and 99.99%, respectively. The phase structure, microstructure, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties were comprehensively studied. All compositions of the ceramics exhibit a pseudo‐cubic phase perovskite structure, and the fraction of the rhombohedral phase increases with increasing the TiO2 purity. Additionally, backscattered electron images and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy revealed an obvious core–shell structure within grains. In particular, the 0.7BF–0.3BT ceramics prepared with 98% purity TiO2 exhibited superior ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties, d33 ∼ 220 pC/N and  ∼ 230 pm/V. The ceramics prepared with higher purity TiO2 suffered from severe leakage conduction, which can be well addressed by adding excess TiO2. Our work reveals the importance of different grades of purity TiO2 on the electrical properties of BF–BT ceramics.
Sensorial Contemporary Arts, Mindfulness and Play for Children's Post‐Pandemic Recovery – Qualitative Evaluation of The Children's Sensorium
Authors: Borovica Tamara , McQuilten Grace , Kokanović Renata , Hjorth Larissa , Clarke Angela , Maling Camilla , Briggs N'arweet Carolyn
Published: January 2024

‘The Children's Sensorium – art, play and mindfulness for post‐pandemic recovery’ was an exhibition that brought together sensory‐based art installations featuring First Nations Connection to Country with mindfulness and embodiment strategies to enhance well‐being for children (ages 4–11). As the COVID‐19 pandemic slowly moves from the centre of public attention, we are starting to gauge the impact of the world's longest lockdown in Melbourne, Australia, on children's well‐being and resilience. ‘The Children's Sensorium’ exhibition was created with children and their well‐being in mind. In this article, we focus on insights from the exhibition evaluation and address the ways artistic and sensory‐based mindful engagement can support children's well‐being and resilience. Evaluation of The Sensorium exhibition provides a view into the potential of sensory‐based artworks to create a stimulating environment, positive emotions, mindful awareness of their senses and the environment and a sense of playful agency for children. The Sensorium provoked a fresh way of thinking about art exhibitions for children: one that centred a child‐friendly, strength‐based artistic space where children felt agency to be creative and explore the complexity of their emotions, hopes and fears in the wake of the global pandemic.
Privilege and Practice—Challenges for Doctoral Education in Art and Design
Authors: Vaughan Sian
Published: January 2024

Increasingly, doctoral education is being challenged to reflect and act on issues of access and equity. I argue that in art and design the expanding doctoral expectations and emphasis on doctoral community impact the multiple and intersectional concerns around diversity, equity and belonging that urgently need to be acknowledged and addressed. The benefits of community are widely acknowledged in the literature on doctoral education, and it is increasingly recognised that there are specific nuances to the needs of practice research doctoral communities. Prompted by insights from interviews with art and design doctoral researchers, I examine available data on participation in doctoral research in art and design in the United Kingdom in conjunction with literature on doctoral education and practice research. My aim is to highlight concerns relating to privilege and belonging in art and design doctorates that should make us increasingly uncomfortable. I believe that as a community art and design in higher education urgently needs to actively consider these issues. As well as indicating the necessity for further research, I argue that conversations are needed to devise and advocate for more inclusive and culturally responsive doctoral education specific to the needs of practice research in art and design.
Ten years of subcutaneous defibrillator therapy: Consolidated clinical evidence and future perspectives
Authors: Magnani Silvia , Ali Hussam , Cappato Riccardo
Published: January 2024

The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S‐ICD) was developed as an alternative to the traditional transvenous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (TV‐ICD), aiming to provide easier implantation, simplified detection algorithm of malignant ventricular arrhythmias and prevention from placing components in the cardiovascular system. The S‐ICD is implanted subcutaneously or intramuscularly with the generator placed in the left midaxillary line and the lead tunneled subcutaneously in the left para‐sternal region. Preimplant electrocardiogram screening is recommended to prevent implantation in patients at high risk of T wave over‐sensing. Currently, the S‐ICD is unsuitable for patients requiring pacing or cardiac resynchronization. Since the beginning, the S‐ICD underwent extensive preclinical investigation until the first prospective multicentre trial demonstrating high efficacy and safety led to market release. While earlier studies focused on younger patients with higher ejection fraction, more recent studies showed favorable outcomes even in patients with comorbidities similar to those typically observed in patients receiving TV‐ICD. The development of second and third generation devices has contributed to reduce inappropriate shocks and overcome previous limitations. The aim of this paper is to review the evidence in the literature over the past decade supporting S‐ICD as a valid alternative to TV‐ICD in terms of safety and efficacy, highlighting the improvements in technology, as well as outcomes.
Engineering, applications, and future perspectives of GPCR‐based genetically encoded fluorescent indicators for neuromodulators
Authors: Rohner Valentin Lu , Lamothe‐Molina Paul J. , Patriarchi Tommaso
Published: January 2024

This review explores the evolving landscape of G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR)‐based genetically encoded fluorescent indicators (GEFIs), with a focus on their development, structural components, engineering strategies, and applications. We highlight the unique features of this indicator class, emphasizing the importance of both the sensing domain (GPCR structure and activation mechanism) and the reporting domain (circularly permuted fluorescent protein (cpFP) structure and fluorescence modulation). Further, we discuss indicator engineering approaches, including the selection of suitable cpFPs and expression systems. Additionally, we showcase the diversity and flexibility of their application by presenting a summary of studies where such indicators were used. Along with all the advantages, we also focus on the current limitations as well as common misconceptions that arise when using these indicators. Finally, we discuss future directions in indicator engineering, including strategies for screening with increased throughput, optimization of the ligand‐binding properties, structural insights, and spectral diversity.

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Early spiral arteriole remodeling in the uterine–placental interface: A rat model
Authors: Bacon Sarah J. , Zhu Yuxi , Ghosh Priyanjali
Published: January 2024

The mammalian placenta's interface with the parent is a richly vascularized tissue whose development relies upon communication between many different cell types within the uterine microenvironment. The uterine blood vessels of the interface are reshaped during pregnancy into wide‐bore, flaccid vessels that convey parental blood to the exchange region of the placenta. Invasive trophoblast as well as parental uterine macrophages and Natural Killer cells are involved in the stepwise remodeling of these vessels and their respective contributions to this crucial process are still being delineated. However, the earliest steps in arteriole remodeling are understudied as they are difficult to study in humans, and other species lack the deep trophoblast invasion that is so prominent a feature of placentation in humans. Here, we further characterize the rat, with deep hemochorial placentation akin to humans, as a model system in which to tease apart the earliest, relatively understudied events in spiral arteriole remodeling. We show that the rat uterine−placental interface increases in size and vascularity rapidly, before trophoblast invasion. The remodeling stages in the arterioles of the rat uterine–placental interface follow a sequence of anatomical changes similar to those in humans, and there are changes to the arterioles' muscular tunica media prior to the marked influx of immune cells. The rat is a tractable model in which to better understand the cell/cell interactions occurring in vivo in an intact tissue microenvironment over time.
Body Dissatisfaction and Health Risk Behaviors Among Middle School Girls
Authors: Perniciaro Kelly , Moore Michele J. , Zeglin Robert J. , Terrell Kassie R.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Previous studies demonstrate a relationship between body dissatisfaction and substance use and suicidal ideation among older adolescent girls and young women while less documentation exists for early adolescence. This study explored the relationship between reported weight loss attempts and substance use history and suicidal thoughts among younger female adolescents.

METHODS

Participants (n = 1656) were middle school female students who participated in the 2019 Youth Behaviors Risk Survey. Participants were coded as “Trying to lose weight” and “Not trying to lose weight.” Two hierarchal multiple binary logistic regressions were conducted, 1 for each of the dependent variables: (1) substance use history and (2) suicidality.

RESULTS

Fifty‐seven percent of the participants were trying to lose weight, 40% reported suicidal thoughts and 45% reported substance use history. Trying to lose weight was a significant predictor for both substance use (p < .01) and suicidality (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Body dissatisfaction and its association with risky health behaviors highlight the need for prevention education at earlier ages while reinforcing the need for availability of school counselors.
A portrait of Brazilian healthcare for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Silva Eder R. , Santos Flavia H.
Published: January 2024

In Brazil, the Unified Health System (SUS) is the national health system that offers free medical services to all citizens including all levels of treatment and prevention of diseases, subsidized by the government. Although SUS is universally offered, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) face challenges regarding healthcare. This article aims to present a description of the healthcare framework for people with I/DD in Brazil, as well as to characterize the Care Network for Person with Disabilities. This is a descriptive study that reports aspects of the structure and functioning of the health system in the country. In addition, we summarize core data from the National Health Survey that characterizes the health condition of people with I/DD in the country. Although Brazil has promoted legislation in favor of the health of people with I/DD and other disabilities, the obstacle is the implementation. Overall, there have been advances in SUS efficacy. However, challenges include long waiting times for diagnosis, habilitation/rehabilitation, inadequate transportation, and insufficient staff training on disability and I/DD, particularly. In this sense, it is necessary to monitor laws and inclusive actions so that the principles of the SUS are actually applied.
Sensory gating and gaining in sleep: the balance between the protection of sleep and the safeness of life (a review)
Authors: Coenen Anton
Published: January 2024

Sleep is a brain state characterised by a low vigilance level and diminished consciousness. Reaction to and processing of external stimuli is attenuated in sleep. During sleep, the reticular thalamic nucleus reduces the flow of sensory activity to the cerebral cortex through inhibition of the thalamus. This sensory gating process facilitates sleep. After reaching the afferent layers of primary cortex, the reduced sensory flow is adjusted, gained, and processed within various cortical layers before being transferred by the corticofugal system back to appropriate subdivisions of the thalamus as feedback. Thalamic subdivisions then dispatch this sensory information to related areas of the cerebral cortex, where it is (sub)consciously perceived. When necessary, a sleeping individual can be awakened by a wake‐up call, either by stimuli indicating danger, or by personally meaningful stimuli. It is safe for a sleeping individual that it can be aroused when necessary. Evidently, there are two processes by which the brain adjusts the response to sensory stimuli before entering (sub)consciousness. Firstly ‘sensory gating’, a process favourable to the maintenance of sleep by reducing the sensory input to the brain through the reticular thalamic nucleus and secondly ‘sensory gaining’, a process implying that the gained preserved sensory input is continuously analysed by the corticofugal system to detect dangerous and relevant environmental elements, indispensable for safeness and well‐being of the sleeper.
Gender differences in the relationship between sleep and age in a Brazilian cohort: the Baependi Heart Study
Authors: Taporoski Tâmara P. , Beijamini Felipe , Alexandria Shaina , Aaby David , von Schantz Malcolm , Pereira Alexandre C. , Knutson Kristen L.
Published: January 2024

Gender and age are well‐established determinants of health and sleep health that influence overall health, which also often varies by gender and age. Sleep architecture is an important component of sleep health. The goal of this analysis was to examine whether associations between age and sleep stages differ by gender in the absence of moderate–severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a rural setting in Brazil. This study conducted polysomnography recordings in the Baependi Heart Study, a cohort of Brazilian adults. Our sample included 584 women and 309 men whose apnea–hypopnea index was ≤15 events/h. We used splines to distinguish non‐linear associations between age, total sleep time, wake after sleep onset (WASO), N2, N3, and rapid‐eye‐movement sleep. The mean (standard deviation; range) age was 47 (14; 18–89) years. All sleep outcomes were associated with age. Compared to men, women had more N3 sleep and less WASO after adjusting for age. Model‐based comparisons between genders at specific ages showed statistically higher mean WASO for men at ages 60 (+13.6 min) and 70 years (+19.5 min) and less N3 for men at ages 50 (−13.2 min), 60 (−19.0 min), and 70 years (−19.5 min) but no differences at 20, 30, 40 or 80 years. The other sleep measures did not differ by gender at any age. Thus, even in the absence of moderate–severe OSA, sleep architecture was associated with age across adulthood, and there were gender differences in WASO and N3 at older ages in this rural community.
Law, political economy and war reparation: The case of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Begicevic Alma
Published: January 2024

What are the after‐effects of the Bosnia and Herzegovinian (BH) transition from a post‐socialist, post‐genocide, and post‐ethno‐nationalist state into a European liberal democracy? This article makes a case for war reparation and argues that while poverty reduction has not been among the stated aims of transitional justice mechanisms, it is of critical importance to study war victims' deprivation in the context of historical patterns of structural injustice and examine liberal reconstruction policies that failed to provide compensation and legal redress for gross violations of human rights and serious violations of humanitarian law. The article uses the historical sociology approach as a method of analysis to investigate how moving away from a socialist to a capitalist economic model, from war to peace, and from one party political system to liberal democracy has resulted in structural injustice and growing levels of poverty that adversely impact most vulnerable Bosnians. The article presents an argument that the lack of post‐war reparation programs, coupled with an inadequate emphasis on political regime change, poverty reduction programs and social and economic rights such as access to welfare, cash assistance, food, transportation, education, pension, and disability benefits to ensure the quality of living is detrimental to everyday lives of war victims and people who live at the bottom of the society.
Maternally derived avian corticosterone affects offspring genome‐wide DNA methylation in a passerine species
Authors: Miltiadous Anna , Callahan Damien L. , Dujon Antoine M. , Buchanan Katherine L. , Rollins Lee A.
Published: January 2024

Avian embryos develop in an egg composition which reflects both maternal condition and the recent environment of their mother. In birds, yolk corticosterone (CORT) influences development by impacting pre‐ and postnatal growth, as well as nestling stress responses and development. One possible mechanism through which maternal CORT may affect offspring development is via changes to offspring DNA methylation. We sought to investigate this, for the first time in birds, by quantifying the impact of manipulations to maternal CORT on offspring DNA methylation. We non‐invasively manipulated plasma CORT concentrations of egg‐laying female zebra finches (Taeniopygia castanotis) with an acute dose of CORT administered around the time of ovulation and collected their eggs. We then assessed DNA methylation in the resulting embryonic tissue and in their associated vitelline membrane blood vessels, during early development (5 days after lay), using two established methods – liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) and methylation‐sensitive amplification fragment length polymorphism (MS‐AFLP). LC–MS analysis showed that global DNA methylation was lower in embryos from CORT‐treated mothers, compared to control embryos. In contrast, blood vessel DNA from eggs from CORT‐treated mothers showed global methylation increases, compared to control samples. There was a higher proportion of global DNA methylation in the embryonic DNA of second clutches, compared to first clutches. Locus‐specific analyses using MS‐AFLP did not reveal a treatment effect. Our results indicate that an acute elevation of maternal CORT around ovulation impacts DNA methylation patterns in their offspring. This could provide a mechanistic understanding of how a mother's experience can affect her offspring's phenotype.
Ḥuṭṭ awlawīya lil‐ʻilm! Sherif Gaber's YouTube Videos and His Views on Science and Religion
Authors: Bigliardi Stefano , Chouhbi Abdelmojib , Ghafil Mohamed Amine , Sounani Malak , Tikrout Issra
Published: January 2024

This article examines the YouTube videos of Egyptian activist Sherif Gaber, an important voice among contemporary critics of religion who have a Muslim background. We scrutinize his ideas, with a focus on Gaber's conceptualization of science, and advance a proposal on how to critically yet moderately engage with Gaber's arguments.
Ashtangayoga for irritable bowel syndrome in a primary care setting: A feasibility study
Authors: Kern Dorian , Lindfors Embla , Lalér Lisa , Lindfors Airene , Ljótsson Brjánn , Lindfors Perjohan
Published: January 2024

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by diarrhea or constipation and other symptoms such as pain, bloating, and flatulence. The disease often has a negative effect on quality of life and is also associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. Pharmacological treatments are not always effective, and complementary and alternative treatments are common.

Methods

We conducted a study on a group intervention based on the Ashtanga school of yoga. Fourteen participants (three men, 11 women; average age 51.4, SD = 16) were recruited from primary care, and 10 completed treatment. At pre‐measurement, 4 participants had severe, 9 moderate, and 1 mild IBS, according to the IBS‐SSS scale.

Key Results

The intervention was regarded as credible (CEQ M = 39.2 SD = 8.8), and no serious adverse events were reported. The intervention showed significant effects on all measurements at post, as follows: IBS‐SSS PRE (M = 272.0 SD = 75.5); IBS‐SSS POST (M = 177.0 SD = 103.5); GSRS‐IBS PRE (M = 48.4 SD = 15.9); GSRS‐IBS POST (M = 37.4 SD = 12.4); VSI PRE (M = 38.8 SD = 10.0) VSI POST (M = 25.9 SD = 10.1); PHQ12 PRE (M = 10.0 SD = 4.3); PHQ12 POST (M = 6.9 SD = 4.3); HADS anxiety PRE (M = 8.9 SD = 5.0) HADS anxiety POST (M = 5.7 SD = 3.3) HADS depression PRE (M = 5.6 SD = 3.2) HADS depression POST (M = 3.8 SD = 2.9) IBS‐QOL PRE (M = 64.5 SD = 12.5) IBS‐QOL POST (M = 72.3 SD = 10.0). The effects were maintained at follow‐up, except for general anxiety and depression. Preliminary effects at 3‐month follow‐up were in the moderate to large range for main outcomes.

Conclusion & Inferences

A 10‐week group Ashtanga intervention was a feasible intervention for participants with IBS. Preliminary effects were promising and should be explored further in a randomized trial.
Eight EDA mutations in Chinese patients with tooth agenesis and genotype–phenotype analysis
Authors: Yu Kang , Sheng Yihan , Wang Feng , Yang Shuwen , Wan Futang , Lei Ming , Wu Yiqun
Published: January 2024

Objective

Tooth agenesis is a common craniofacial malformation, which is often associated with gene mutations. The purpose of this research was to investigate and uncover ectodysplasin A (EDA) gene variants in eight Chinese families affected with tooth agenesis.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from tooth agenesis families and sequenced using whole‐exome sequencing. The expression of ectodysplasin A1 (EDA1) protein was studied by western blot, binding activity with receptor was tested by pull‐down and the NF‐κB transcriptional activity was analyzed by Dual luciferase assay.

Results

Eight EDA missense variants were discovered, of which two (c.T812C, c.A1073G) were novel. The bioinformatics analysis indicated that these variants might be pathogenic. The tertiary structure analysis revealed that these eight variants could cause structural damage to EDA proteins. In vitro functional studies demonstrated that the variants greatly affect protein stability or impair the EDA‐EDAR interaction; thereby significantly affecting the downstream NF‐κb transcriptional activity. In addition, we summarized the genotype–phenotype correlation caused by EDA variants and found that EDA mutations leading to NSTA are mostly missense mutations located in the TNF domain.

Conclusion

Our results broaden the variant spectrum of the EDA gene associated with tooth agenesis and provide valuable information for future genetic counseling.
NAT10/CEBPB/vimentin signalling axis promotes adenoid cystic carcinoma malignant phenotypes in vitro
Authors: Fu Min , Gao Qian , Xiao Mian , Sun Xin‐Yi , Li Sheng‐Lin , Ge Xi‐Yuan
Published: January 2024

Objective

To explore the biological function and mechanisms of CEBPB and NAT10‐mediated N4‐acetylcytidine (ac4c) modification in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC).

Materials and Methods

CEBPB and NAT10 were knocked down in SACC–LM cells by siRNA transfection and overexpressed in SACC‐83 cells by plasmid transfection. Malignant phenotypes were evaluated using CCK‐8, Transwell migration and colony formation assays. Real‐time PCR, western blotting, ChIP and acRIP were used to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved.

Results

We found that CEBPB was highly expressed in SACC tissues and correlated with lung metastasis and unfavourable prognosis. Gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments revealed that CEBPB promoted SACC malignant phenotypes. Mechanistically, CEBPB exerted its oncogenic effect by binding to the vimentin gene promoter region to enhance its expression. Moreover, NAT10‐mediated ac4c modification led to stabilization and overexpression of CEBPB in SACC cells. We also found that NAT10, the only known human enzyme responsible for ac4C modification, promoted SACC cell migration, proliferation and colony formation. Moreover, CEBPB overexpression restored the inhibitory effect of NAT10 knockdown on malignant phenotypes.

Conclusions

Our study reveals the critical role of the newly identified NAT10/CEBPB/vimentin axis in SACC malignant progression, and the findings may be applied to improve treatment for SACC.
The chromosome‐level assembly of the wild diploid alfalfa genome provides insights into the full landscape of genomic variations between cultivated and wild alfalfa
Authors: Shi Kun , Dong Hongbin , Du Huilong , Li Yuxian , Zhou Le , Liang Chengzhi , Şakiroğlu Muhammet , Wang Zan
Published: January 2024

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most important forage legumes in the world, including autotetraploid (M. sativa ssp. sativa) and diploid alfalfa (M. sativa ssp. caerulea, progenitor of autotetraploid alfalfa). Here, we reported a high‐quality genome of ZW0012 (diploid alfalfa, 769 Mb, contig N50 = 5.5 Mb), which was grouped into the Northern group in population structure analysis, suggesting that our genome assembly filled a major gap among the members of M. sativa complex. During polyploidization, large phenotypic differences occurred between diploids and tetraploids, and the genetic information underlying its massive phenotypic variations remains largely unexplored. Extensive structural variations (SVs) were identified between ZW0012 and XinJiangDaYe (an autotetraploid alfalfa with released genome). We identified 71 ZW0012‐specific PAV genes and 1296 XinJiangDaYe‐specific PAV genes, mainly involved in defence response, cell growth, and photosynthesis. We have verified the positive roles of MsNCR1 (a XinJiangDaYe‐specific PAV gene) in nodulation using an Agrobacterium rhizobia‐mediated transgenic method. We also demonstrated that MsSKIP23_1 and MsFBL23_1 (two XinJiangDaYe‐specific PAV genes) regulated leaf size by transient overexpression and virus‐induced gene silencing analysis. Our study provides a high‐quality reference genome of an important diploid alfalfa germplasm and a valuable resource of variation landscape between diploid and autotetraploid, which will facilitate the functional gene discovery and molecular‐based breeding for the cultivars in the future.
Eternity, perpetuity, and time in the cosmologies of Plotinus and Mīr Dāmād
Authors: Zaidi Syed A. H.
Published: January 2024

The present piece focuses on the influence of Plotinus' understanding of time and eternity as articulated in Plotinus' third and fifth Enneads upon Mīr Dāmād's (d. 1631–2) conception of eternity, perpetuity, and time found in his Book of Blazing Brands (Kitab al‐Qabasāt). Although Mīr Dāmād's conception of eternity, perpetuity, and time resembles that of Plotinus' cosmology and ontology, he departs from Plotinus' hypostases in establishing strict parameters for each domain. Unlike Plotinus, Mīr Dāmād argues that the realm of eternity is reserved for God alone, while the realm of Perpetuity contains the Platonic Forms. For Mīr Dāmād, the realm of time is an effect of the realm of Perpetuity and a tool for human beings to understand how to measure events in the temporal world. Unlike many other Shī'ite philosophers, Mīr Dāmād's articulation of these three cosmological realms incorporates thought found in the works of both prominent Sunni and Shī'ite scholars such as Ibn Sīnā, Abū Ḥāmid al‐Ghāzālī, Suhrawardī, and Naṣīr al‐Dīn Ṭūsī. Although his most successful student, Mullā Ṣadrā Shirazī, had ultimately disagreed with his teacher's cosmological doctrine, he remained influenced by the multitude of sources that his teacher had used.
The “ethnophilosophy” problem: How the idea of “social imaginaries” may remedy it
Authors: Ude Donald Mark C.
Published: January 2024

The work argues that engaging Africa's cultural and epistemic resources as social imaginaries, and not as metaphysical or ontological “essences,” could help practitioners of African philosophy overcome the cluster of shortcomings and undesirable features associated with “ethnophilosophy.” A number of points are outlined to buttress this claim. First, the framework of social imaginaries does not operate with the false assumption that Africa's cultural forms and epistemic resources are static and immutable. Second, this framework does not lend itself to sweeping generalizations about Africa or large swathes of it. Third, the framework of social imaginaries remedies ethnophilosophy's problem of collectivism. Fourth, unlike ethnophilosophy, it does not romanticize and canonize a supposedly “idyllic” African past, which militates against a realistic and forward‐looking philosophizing. Finally, with the framework of social imaginaries, Africa's indigenous cultural and epistemic resources become amenable to being engaged with critical philosophical rigor. This not only enhances their potential for cross‐cultural philosophical conversation but also enhances their usefulness for addressing current sociopolitical issues affecting Africa. The discussion in this paper somewhat touches upon the question of method in African philosophy, using the ethnophilosophy problem to navigate the vast gamut of issues involved.
Unravelling the aetiology of Dickeya zeae using polyphasic approaches for bacterial stalk rot in maize
Authors: Jatoth Rajender , Kashyap Abhijeet S. , Babu P. Lokesh , Singh Dinesh , Gogoi Robin , Manzar Nazia , Geat Neelam , Muthusamy Vignesh , Padaria J. C.
Published: January 2024

Bacterial stalk rot (BSR), caused by Dickeya zeae (syn. Erwinia chrysanthemi pv. zeae), has emerged as a significant disease affecting maize crops worldwide. In this study, symptomatic maize plants were collected from diverse agroclimatic zones in India over the period of kharif 2019–2021. Various approaches, including pathogenicity tests, cultural characteristics, biochemical profiling and molecular analysis, were employed to accurately identify the collected bacterial isolates as Dickeya. Pathogenicity assessments were conducted on 40‐day‐old maize plants, following Koch's postulates, as well as through potato maceration assays. Furthermore, cross‐infectivity studies were conducted on rice, potato, tomato and banana plants. Phenotypic and biochemical characterization confirmed that all the isolates belonged to the Dickeya genus. Additionally, PCR amplification of a pel gene fragment, specific to the genus Dickeya, further verified the pathogenic isolates as Dickeya. Molecular characterization studies were performed on four isolates (UKMDZ‐3, PBMDZ‐7, TSMDZ‐11 and HPMDZ‐16), selected to represent distinct maize agroclimatic zones and four states of India, and which caused severe infections on susceptible maize cv. Early Composite. Amplification of six characteristic genome regions (16S rRNA, recN, gyrB, dnaX, recA and dnaJ) from these isolates facilitated individual and concatenated gene phylogenetic analyses, confirming their resemblance to Dickeya zeae. This study represents the first comprehensive molecular analysis of D. zeae isolates from India, providing valuable insights for future crop improvement strategies. The findings contribute to our understanding of the genetic basis of BSR in maize and offer potential avenues for genetic enhancement to mitigate the disease's impact on maize cultivation.
Overexpression of an NLP protein family member increases virulence of Verticillium dahliae
Authors: Triantafyllopoulou Alexandra , Tzima Aliki K. , Chronopoulou Evangelia G. , Labrou Nikolaos E. , Kang Seogchan , Paplomatas Epaminondas J.
Published: January 2024

Verticillium dahliae is a xylem‐invading fungal pathogen that causes vascular wilt in a wide range of angiosperms. The pathogen uses a variety of virulence factors to invade and colonize its hosts. Here, we report that VdNEP, an NLP (Necrosis and ethylene inducing peptide 1‐Like Protein), functions as one such factor in multiple hosts. Eggplant leaves treated with VdNEP developed necrotic symptoms. Overexpression of VdNEP by incorporating extra copies of the VdNEP gene increased virulence to cotton, eggplant and tomato plants, suggesting its role as a virulence factor in diverse plants. Increased expression of VdNEP among the transformants did not correlate with the number of VdNEP inserts, suggesting that its expression was affected by the genomic context of the insertion sites. Interestingly, a transformant derived from a defoliating strain with high VdNEP transcript levels caused disease symptoms in tomato plants, whereas the corresponding wild‐type strain did not cause visible symptoms. The amount of V. dahliae DNA in plants infected with this VdNEP‐overexpressing transformant was 22 times higher than that in plants infected with the wild‐type isolate, further supporting the critical role of VdNEP in infection. A VdNEP‐EGFP fusion was constructed to follow its localization in fungal cells and during infection.
The cytochrome P450 enzyme WsCYP71B35 from Withania somnifera has a role in withanolides biosynthesis and defence against bacteria
Authors: Shilpashree H. B. , Narayanan Ananth Krishna , Kumar Sarma Rajeev , Barvkar Vitthal , Nagegowda Dinesh A.
Published: January 2024

The medicinal properties of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L. Dunal) are attributed to withanolides, which belong to the triterpenoid steroidal lactones class of compounds. Though it is proposed that intermediates of the universal phytosterol pathway are utilized by cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes to form withanolides, studies on the functional characterization of these enzymes have been sparse. This study reports the functional characterization of a CYP450 candidate from W. somnifera, WsCYP71B35 that exhibited induced expression in response to methyl jasmonate treatment and showed higher expression in tissues that accumulate withanolides. Biochemical assay with yeast microsomal fraction expressing recombinant WsCYP71B35 indicated no activity when phytosterols and their intermediate 24‐methylene cholesterol were used as substrates. However, WsCYP71B35 catalyzed product formation with withaferin A, withanolide A, withanolide B, and withanoside IV among the tested substrates. Moreover, virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) and transient overexpression of WsCYP71B35 in W. somnifera leaves modulated the levels of withaferin A, withanolide A, and withanolide B, indicating the role of WsCYP71B35 in withanolides pathway. Furthermore, VIGS of WsCYP71B35 in W. somnifera reduced its tolerance to Pseudomonas syringae (DC3000) infection, whereas overexpression enhanced the tolerance to the bacterium in W. somnifera and transgenic tobacco. Overall, these results provide insights into the role of W. somnifera WsCYP71B35 in withanolides biosynthesis and bacterial defence.
Photosynthetic and antioxidant responses of Ankistrodesmus flexuosus and Curvastrum pantanale to environmentally relevant copper concentrations
Authors: Dauda Suleiman , Lombardi Ana Teresa
Published: January 2024

Since high concentrations of copper (Cu) are known to negatively affect algae, we investigated the effect of environmentally relevant concentrations of Cu on the metabolism and photosynthesis of microalgae. We investigated the photosynthesis and antioxidant responses of two green microalgae, Ankistrodesmus flexuosus and Curvastrum pantanale, to free Cu (1.7 nM–589.0 nM Cu2+), which included environmentally significant values (1.7 nM–21.4 nM Cu2+). The microalgae had similar growth rates at low Cu2+, but C. pantanale had higher growth rates at 7.4 and 21.4 nM Cu2+, and a higher Chl a/b ratio at 1.7–21.4 nM Cu2+. The Fv/Fo of A. flexuosus was not altered by Cu, whereas its relative maximum electron transport rate (rETRm) began to decrease at 7.4 nM Cu2+. The Fv/Fo and rETRm of C. pantanale increased at 21.4 nM Cu2+. The non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) that was actively dissipated [Y(NPQ)] in A. flexuosus increased with Cu increase, whereas at 589.0 nM Cu2+, the NPQ of C. pantanale decreased and its passive energy dissipation [Y(NO)] increased. C. pantanale had higher photosynthesis at 1.7–21.4 nM Cu2+. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased in both microalgae at high Cu concentrations, at 21.4 nM Cu2+ for A. flexuosus, and at 589.0 nM Cu2+ for C. pantanale. Thus, environmentally relevant Cu concentrations can favor the survival of tolerant microalgae species, hence shifting the diversity of aquatic biota.
A review of using duckweed (Lemnaceae) in fish feeds
Authors: Minich Jeremiah J. , Michael Todd P.
Published: January 2024

One of the primary sustainability challenges in aquaculture is replacing fish meal with plant‐based ingredients in aquafeeds. Plants are not optimal due to low protein content and antinutritional factors which can cause gut dysbiosis. Duckweed (Lemnaceae) is a family of aquatic plants with high protein content and has been used successfully for various types of animal feeds. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis of 58 papers, we summarize the extent by which duckweed has been used in fish production including the species of fish tested, the grow‐out stage of fish, and method of application. Duckweed studies spanned a total of 18 species of fish (16 freshwater and two marine) that collectively are valued at 263 billion USD annually, and comprise 28% of total aquaculture production by mass. The average experiment length was 72 days (SD 42), primarily at the fingerling life stage. Duckweed was fed to the fish through live grazing, dried, and pelleted forms with 20% inclusion as the most common formulation. The Lemna spp., dominated by L. minor, L. gibba, and unknown Lemna species, were the most commonly used for feeds. Spirodela polyrhiza was the second most common. Duckweed inclusion levels between 15% and 30% were associated with positive outcomes on fish growth and feed conversion ratio without any negative impact on survival rates. Most duckweed species, especially from Wollfiella have not been tested as a fish feed but should be explored whereas most studies focused on freshwater fishes rather than marine.
Signalling regulation of reactive oxygen species in fish inflammation
Authors: Gao Feng , Zhao Yanjing , Shi Xiaowei , Qiao Dan , Pei Chao , Kong Xianghui
Published: January 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are key cellular signalling molecules, are reactive chemicals containing oxygen. Cell survival or death is a critical issue in the inflammatory response. Accumulation of ROS involves ROS generation and scavenging, which determine ROS homeostasis. Understanding the roles of ROS in modulating the inflammatory response in fish is vital for helping protect fish from the damage of water pollutants in harsh environmental conditions. ROS‐related key genes and signalling pathways are relatively conserved in fish but vary among different species. Recent frequent incidences of fish diseases have posed a considerable challenge to large‐scale aquaculture. ROS is important in stress perception, integration of diverse stress‐responsive signalling networks, and activation of animal defence mechanisms, which frequently occur during inflammation in fish. This review summarises recent studies on ROS signalling pathways during inflammation in fish. Furthermore, it examines the relationship between ROS and inflammation in fish. This review may contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which ROS regulate inflammation in fish and provide suggestions for sustainable development in aquaculture.
“There's a little bit of mistrust”: Red River Métis experiences of the H1N1 and COVID‐19 pandemics
Authors: Driedger S. Michelle , Maier Ryan , Capurro Gabriela , Jardine Cindy , Tustin Jordan , Chartrand Frances , Sanguins Julianne , Kloss Olena
Published: January 2024

We examined the perspectives of the Red River Métis citizens in Manitoba, Canada, during the H1N1 and COVID‐19 pandemics and how they interpreted the communication of government/health authorities’ risk management decisions. For Indigenous populations, pandemic response strategies play out within the context of ongoing colonial relationships with government institutions characterized by significant distrust. A crucial difference between the two pandemics was that the Métis in Manitoba were prioritized for early vaccine access during H1N1 but not for COVID‐19. Data collection involved 17 focus groups with Métis citizens following the H1N1 outbreak and 17 focus groups during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Métis prioritization during H1N1 was met with some apprehension and fear that Indigenous Peoples were vaccine‐safety test subjects before population‐wide distribution occurred. By contrast, as one of Canada's three recognized Indigenous nations, the non‐prioritization of the Métis during COVID‐19 was viewed as an egregious sign of disrespect and indifference. Our research demonstrates that both reactions were situated within claims that the government does not care about the Métis, referencing past and ongoing colonial motivations. Government and health institutions must anticipate this overarching colonial context when making and communicating risk management decisions with Indigenous Peoples. In this vein, government authorities must work toward a praxis of decolonization in these relationships, including, for example, working in partnership with Indigenous nations to engage in collaborative risk mitigation and communication that meets the unique needs of Indigenous populations and limits the potential for less benign—though understandable—interpretations.
Global shocks, budgets deficits, and international fiscal policy coordination
Authors: Agénor Pierre‐Richard
Published: January 2024

A simple two‐country model with trade, fiscal and interest rate externalities is used to study strategic interactions between national policymakers. Optimal fiscal policy internalizes a trade‐off between output stability and fiscal stability. With lump‐sum taxation, the noncooperative equilibrium is inefficient and both countries are better off under coordination. These results also hold if taxation is distortionary and trade generates a fiscal externality as well, regardless of how strong the preference for output stability is. In response to a negative global demand shock, consistent with the disruptions that occurred during the recent pandemic, the optimal policy response is to increase spending by more under cooperation. However, if budget deficits generate a sufficiently strong negative cross‐border externality through higher interest rates, the optimal response calls for lower spending under cooperation.