bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copper ion (Cu2+) is involved in the transcription of the tyrosinase-encoding melB gene of Aspergillus oryzae in solid-state culture
Authors: Chen Jun , Tonouchi Akio
Published: November 2023

In Aspergillus oryzae, the tyrosinase-encoding gene melB causes undesirable browning of sake and sake lees. This gene is known to be expressed specifically in solid-state culture; however, its expression mechanisms remain unknown. Here, we evaluated the possible factors affecting the transcription of melB and found that the copper ion (Cu2+) significantly enhanced the transcription level of melB in solid-state culture.
RabbitKSSD: accelerating genome distance estimation on modern multi-core architectures
Authors: Xu Xiaoming , Yin Zekun , Yan Lifeng , Yi Huiguang , Wang Hua , Schmidt Bertil , Liu Weiguo
Published: November 2023

We propose RabbitKSSD, a high-speed genome distance estimation tool. Specifically, we leverage load-balanced task partitioning, fast I/O, efficient intermediate result accesses, and high-performance data structures to improve overall efficiency. Our performance evaluation demonstrates that RabbitKSSD achieves speedups ranging from 5.7× to 19.8× over Kssd for the time-consuming sketch generation and distance computation on commonly used workstations. In addition, it significantly outperforms Mash, BinDash, and Dashing2. Moreover, RabbitKSSD can efficiently perform all-vs-all distance computation for all RefSeq complete bacterial genomes (455 GB in FASTA format) in just 2 min on a 64-core workstation.

Availability and implementation

RabbitKSSD is available at https://github.com/RabbitBio/RabbitKSSD.
Modified RNAs and predictions with the ViennaRNA Package
Authors: Varenyk Yuliia , Spicher Thomas , Hofacker Ivo L , Lorenz Ronny
Published: November 2023

Motivation

In living organisms, many RNA molecules are modified post-transcriptionally. This turns the widely known four-letter RNA alphabet ACGU into a much larger one with currently more than 300 known distinct modified bases. The roles for the majority of modified bases remain uncertain, but many are already well-known for their ability to influence the preferred structures that an RNA may adopt. In fact, tRNAs sometimes require certain modifications to fold into their cloverleaf shaped structure. However, predicting the structure of RNAs with base modifications is still difficult due to the lack of efficient algorithms that can deal with the extended sequence alphabet, as well as missing parameter sets that account for the changes in stability induced by the modified bases.

Results

We present an approach to include sparse energy parameter data for modified bases into the ViennaRNA Package. Our method does not require any changes to the underlying efficient algorithms but instead uses a set of plug-in constraints that adapt the predictions in terms of loop evaluation at runtime. These adaptations are efficient in the sense that they are only performed for loops where additional parameters are actually available for. In addition, our approach also facilitates the inclusion of more modified bases as soon as further parameters become available.

Availability and implementation

Source code and documentation are available at https://www.tbi.univie.ac.at/RNA.
‘Shown love from the brokenness of a system’: Themes from a Poetic Inquiry Reimagining Child Welfare
Authors: Clark Shelby L , Akin Becci A , McCall Sarah , Byers Kaela , Gomez Mariana
Published: November 2023

Child welfare (CW) reforms have called for including family and youth voice. Yet, most initiatives have remained at individual levels, and research has rarely included youth, parent and professional voices simultaneously and equally. This study sought to integrate these perspectives and identify systems-level strategies that could reimagine CW. Using an arts-based method and thematic analysis, researchers investigated recommendations for policy and practice changes needed to transform CW to better support youth. Data were collected from individual and relational poems written by forty-one participants, including youth with foster care (FC) experience and CW professionals. Participants were located in a Midwestern state in the USA. Four themes were generated and several key findings were highlighted. First, results demonstrated relationship-building as central to supporting youth in FC. Secondly, participants described complex, fragmented and fluctuating views about the purpose of CW. Thirdly, strong emotions were commonly demonstrated by both youth and professionals. Fourthly, participants offered prescriptive actions needed to better support youth. Overall, this study indicates that CW should centre relationship-building, youth self-determination and practices that build resilience for youth and professionals. Findings also provide hope for transforming CW towards an accountable, family-centred, well-being system.
Upgrading process of palm empty fruit bunches as alternative solid fuel: a review
Authors: Hardianto Toto , Wenas Ari Akbariyanto , Juangsa Firman Bagja
Published: November 2023

A total of 37.5 million tons of palm empty fruit bunches (EFBs) produced in Indonesia in 2018 have the potential to be used as an alternative eco-friendly solid fuel. However, a pretreatment process is necessary to increase the heating value and reduce the potassium content of EFBs. Several methods can be employed to improve the characteristics of EFBs as a solid fuel, such as drying and torrefaction to increase the heating value and the leaching process for reducing the potassium content of EFBs. The main concept of increasing the heating value is to increase the fuel content, which is carbon. Through drying, the carbon ratio can be increased by reducing the moisture content and, through torrefaction, the carbon ratio could be increased due to the decomposition of lignocellulose. A simple way to reduce the potassium content of EFBs is the leaching process. Two types of leaching treatment have been studied before: soaking and stirring treatment. This study reviews those methods to make EFBs more suitable as a solid fuel with a high heating value and less potassium content. Increasing the carbon content in EFBs is crucial for enhancing their heating value as a fuel. Drying and torrefaction decrease the moisture content and modify the chemical structure, resulting in higher carbon ratios. The leaching process effectively reduces the potassium content of EFBs and stirring treatment is more effective than immersion treatment. Torrefaction positively affects leaching by decreasing the potassium content, while hydrophobicity may hinder leaching by repelling water. The high moisture content of leached EFBs requires additional energy for evaporation during torrefaction, resulting in a lower energy density yield compared with raw EFBs. Adjustments may also be required to account for the decreased mineral content, which functions as a torrefaction catalyst in EFBs that have not been leached.
Beta-blocker and calcium-channel blocker toxicity: current evidence on evaluation and management
Authors: Goldfine Charlotte E , Troger Andrew , Erickson Timothy B , Chai Peter R
Published: November 2023

Beta-blocker and calcium-channel blocker overdoses are associated with severe morbidity and mortality; therefore, it is important to recognize and appropriately treat individuals with toxicity. The most common clinical findings in toxicity are bradycardia and hypotension. In addition to supportive care and cardiac monitoring, specific treatment includes administration of calcium salts, vasopressors, and high-dose insulin euglycaemia treatment. Other advanced treatments (e.g. ECMO) may be indicated depending on the severity of toxicity and specific agents involved.
Assessing heterogeneity on cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging: a novel approach to diagnosis and risk stratification in cardiac diseases
Authors: Hesse Kerrick , Khanji Mohammed Y , Aung Nay , Dabbagh Ghaith Sharaf , Petersen Steffen E , Chahal C Anwar A
Published: November 2023

Cardiac disease affects the heart non-uniformly. Examples include focal septal or apical hypertrophy with reduced strain in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, replacement fibrosis with akinesia in an infarct-related coronary artery territory, and a pattern of scarring in dilated cardiomyopathy. The detail and versatility of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging mean it contains a wealth of information imperceptible to the naked eye and not captured by standard global measures. CMR-derived heterogeneity biomarkers could facilitate early diagnosis, better risk stratification, and a more comprehensive prediction of treatment response. Small cohort and case–control studies demonstrate the feasibility of proof-of-concept structural and functional heterogeneity measures. Detailed radiomic analyses of different CMR sequences using open-source software delineate unique voxel patterns as hallmarks of histopathological changes. Meanwhile, measures of dispersion applied to emerging CMR strain sequences describe variable longitudinal, circumferential, and radial function across the myocardium. Two of the most promising heterogeneity measures are the mean absolute deviation of regional standard deviations on native T1 and T2 and the standard deviation of time to maximum regional radial wall motion, termed the tissue synchronization index in a 16-segment left ventricle model. Real-world limitations include the non-standardization of CMR imaging protocols across different centres and the testing of large numbers of radiomic features in small, inadequately powered patient samples. We, therefore, propose a three-step roadmap to benchmark novel heterogeneity biomarkers, including defining normal reference ranges, statistical modelling against diagnosis and outcomes in large epidemiological studies, and finally, comprehensive internal and external validations.
The impact of air pollution on hospitalization for COPD patients in China
Authors: Chen Chen , Wang Yi , Song Jinglin , Yan Juanjuan
Published: November 2023

Background

With the rapid development of the global economy and the acceleration of urbanization, air pollution has become a major environmental problem threatening human health. There is limited evidence on the acute effects of air pollution on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

From 2014 to 2019, we collected data on daily admissions for COPD patients from a city in China. We used the generalized additive model together with distributed lag models to fit the associations of air pollutants with hospital admissions.

Results

We observed significant increments in the number of daily admissions (0.086–0.109%) for COPD for a unit range increase in air quality index, PM2.5 and PM10 over four lag days. The impact of air pollution on the number of daily admissions was mainly reflected in the COPD patients who were hospitalized through outpatient departments and tertiary hospitals.

Discussion

Short-term exposure to outdoor air pollution may induce the occurrence or exacerbation of COPD patients; therefore, government departments should strengthen the management of air pollution, improve supervision and control mechanisms, pay attention to the quality of medical services, and reduce the adverse effects of air pollution on patients' health.
Does fear-of-failure mediate the relationship between educational expectations and stress-related complaints among Swedish adolescents? A structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Cashman Matthew R , Strandh Mattias , Högberg Björn
Published: November 2023

Background

This study investigated the possible mediating role of fear-of-failure between educational expectations and adolescent stress-related complaints with a specific focus on gender differences among Swedish adolescents, and related these findings more broadly to school-related demands and stress-related complaints.

Methods

A total of N = 5504 Swedish adolescents (Mage = 15 years, SD = 0.0 years, 50.2% girls) were drawn from the 2018 Swedish Programme for International Student Assessment study for our investigation. We used structural equation models to explore if fear-of-failure mediates the relationship between educational expectations and negative affect, with a specific focus on gender differences. Educational expectations were utilized in the measurement model. Fear-of-failure was constructed as a latent mediating variable. Negative affect was constructed as a latent variable and utilized as an outcome variable. We subsequently undertook bootstrapping tests of indirect effects and non-linear comparisons of indirect effects to assess the reliability of the results.

Results

Fear-of-failure partially mediated the association between educational expectations and negative affect (39%). Our gender-specific structural equation model demonstrated that this relationship was more pronounced for girls, suggesting girls are more vulnerable to negative affect as a result of experiencing higher levels of fear of failing.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that fear-of-failure partially explains the association between educational expectations and negative affect and that this association is more pronounced for girls. This study provides insights into better understanding adolescent stress-related complaints, and the differential role fear of failing has in regards to gender.
Intrinsic apoptosis is evolutionarily divergent among metazoans
Authors: Krasovec Gabriel , Horkan Helen R , Quéinnec Éric , Chambon Jean-Philippe
Published: November 2023

Apoptosis is regulated cell death that depends on caspases. A specific initiator caspase is involved upstream of each apoptotic signaling pathway. Characterized in nematode, fly, and mammals, intrinsic apoptosis is considered to be ancestral, conserved among animals, and depends on shared initiators: caspase-9, Apaf-1 and Bcl-2. However, the biochemical role of mitochondria, the pivotal function of cytochrome c and the modality of caspase activation remain highly heterogeneous and hide profound molecular divergence among apoptotic pathways in animals. Uncovering the phylogenetic history of apoptotic actors, especially caspases, is crucial to shed light on the evolutionary history of intrinsic apoptosis. Here, we demonstrate with phylogenetic analyses that caspase-9, the fundamental key of intrinsic apoptosis, is deuterostome-specific, while caspase-2 is ancestral to bilaterians. Our analysis of Bcl-2 and Apaf-1 confirms heterogeneity in functional organization of apoptotic pathways in animals. Our results support emergence of distinct intrinsic apoptotic pathways during metazoan evolution.
Community-level exposomics: a population-centered approach to address public health concerns
Authors: Stingone Jeanette A , Geller Andrew M , Hood Darryl B , Makris Konstantinos C , Mouton Charles P , States J Christopher , Sumner Susan J , Wu K Lily , Rajasekar Arcot K
Published: November 2023

Environmental factors affecting health and vulnerability far outweigh genetics in accounting for disparities in health status and longevity in US communities. The concept of the exposome, the totality of exposure from conception onwards, provides a paradigm for researchers to investigate the complex role of the environment on the health of individuals. We propose a complementary framework, community-level exposomics, for population-level exposome assessment. The goal is to bring the exposome paradigm to research and practice on the health of populations, defined by various axes including geographic, social, and occupational. This framework includes the integration of community-level measures of the built, natural and social environments, environmental pollution-derived from conventional and community science approaches, internal markers of exposure that can be measured at the population-level and early responses associated with health status that can be tracked using population-based monitoring. Primary challenges to the implementation of the proposed framework include needed advancements in population-level measurement, lack of existing models with the capability to produce interpretable and actionable evidence and the ethical considerations of labeling geographically-bound populations by exposomic profiles. To address these challenges, we propose a set of recommendations that begin with greater engagement with and empowerment of affected communities and targeted investment in community-based solutions. Applications to urban settings and disaster epidemiology are discussed as examples for implementation.
Determinants and effectiveness of annual wellness visits among Medicare beneficiaries in 2020
Authors: Park Sungchul , Nguyen Ann M
Published: November 2023

Background

Annual wellness visits (AWVs) have the potential to improve general health and well-being, but little is known about the role of AWVs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

We examined the determinants and effectiveness of having an AWV among Medicare beneficiaries in 2020.

Methods

We employed a cross-sectional study design using data from the 2020 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey. Our outcomes included AWV utilization, preventive care utilization, health status, and care satisfaction. To examine the determinants for having an AWV, we performed a linear regression model and explored the associations with other individual-level variables (demographic, socioeconomic, and health characteristics). To examine the effectiveness of having an AWV, we performed a linear regression model on each outcome measure while adjusting for individual-level variables.

Results

We found that there were several determinants of having an AWV. The four most notable determinants were having a usual source of care, enrolling in Medicare Advantage, being non-Hispanic Black, and being Hispanic. We also found that having an AWV was associated with increases in preventive care use (COVID vaccine, flu shot, pneumonia shot, and blood pressure measurement), but was limited in improving health status and care satisfaction.

Conclusion

Our finding raises critical concerns about inequitable access to health care services for disease prevention and health promotion during the pandemic. Furthermore, the effectiveness of AWVs was mostly in increased preventive care use, suggesting a limited role in meeting the wellness needs of a diverse population of older adults.
Intraspecific Variation of Transposable Elements Reveals Differences in the Evolutionary History of Fungal Phytopathogen Pathotypes
Authors: Nakamoto Anne A , Joubert Pierre M , Krasileva Ksenia V
Published: November 2023

Transposable elements (TEs) contribute to intraspecific variation and play important roles in the evolution of fungal genomes. However, our understanding of the processes that shape TE landscapes is limited, as is our understanding of the relationship between TE content, population structure, and evolutionary history of fungal species. Fungal plant pathogens, which often have host-specific populations, are useful systems in which to study intraspecific TE content diversity. Here, we describe TE dynamics in five lineages of Magnaporthe oryzae, the fungus that causes blast disease of rice, wheat, and many other grasses. We identified differences in TE content across these lineages and showed that recent lineage-specific expansions of certain TEs have contributed to overall greater TE content in rice-infecting and Setaria-infecting lineages. We reconstructed the evolutionary histories of long terminal repeat-retrotransposon expansions and found that in some cases they were caused by complex proliferation dynamics of one element and in others by multiple elements from an older population of TEs multiplying in parallel. Additionally, we found evidence suggesting the recent transfer of a DNA transposon between rice- and wheat-infecting M. oryzae lineages and a region showing evidence of homologous recombination between those lineages, which could have facilitated such a transfer. By investigating intraspecific TE content variation, we uncovered key differences in the proliferation dynamics of TEs in various pathotypes of a fungal plant pathogen, giving us a better understanding of the evolutionary history of the pathogen itself.
Light quality regulates plant biomass and fruit quality through a photoreceptor-dependent HY5-LHC/CYCB module in tomato
Authors: Yan Jiarong , Liu Juan , Yang Shengdie , Jiang Chenghao , Liu Yanan , Zhang Nan , Sun Xin , Zhang Ying , Zhu Kangyou , Peng Yinxia , Bu Xin , Wang Xiujie , Ahammed Golam Jalal , Meng Sida , Tan Changhua , Liu Yufeng , Sun Zhouping , Qi Mingfang , Wang Feng , Li Tianlai
Published: November 2023

Increasing photosynthesis and light capture offers possibilities for improving crop yield and provides a sustainable way to meet the increasing global demand for food. However, the poor light transmittance of transparent plastic films and shade avoidance at high planting density seriously reduce photosynthesis and alter fruit quality in vegetable crops, and therefore it is important to investigate the mechanisms of light signaling regulation of photosynthesis and metabolism in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Here, a combination of red, blue, and white (R1W1B0.5) light promoted the accumulation of chlorophyll, carotenoid, and anthocyanin, and enhanced photosynthesis and electron transport rates by increasing the density of active reaction centers and the expression of the genes LIGHT-HARVESTING COMPLEX B (SlLHCB) and A (SlLHCA), resulting in increased plant biomass. In addition, R1W1B0.5 light induced carotenoid accumulation and fruit ripening by decreasing the expression of LYCOPENE β-CYCLASE (SlCYCB). Disruption of SlCYCB largely induced fruit lycopene accumulation, and reduced chlorophyll content and photosynthesis in leaves under red, blue, and white light. Molecular studies showed that ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (SlHY5) directly activated SlCYCB, SlLHCB, and SlLHCA expression to enhance chlorophyll accumulation and photosynthesis. Furthermore, R1W1B0.5 light-induced chlorophyll accumulation, photosynthesis, and SlHY5 expression were largely decreased in the slphyb1cry1 mutant. Collectively, R1W1B0.5 light noticeably promoted photosynthesis, biomass, and fruit quality through the photoreceptor (SlPHYB1 and SlCRY1)-SlHY5-SlLHCA/B/SlCYCB module in tomato. Thus, the manipulation of light environments in protected agriculture is a crucial tool to regulate the two vital agronomic traits related to crop production efficiency and fruit nutritional quality in tomato.
Cumulative Detection of Anal High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Over 2-Year Follow-up in Men Who Have Sex With Men Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in France
Authors: Combes Jean-Damien , Didelot Jean-Michel , Radenne Sylvie , Zaegel-Faucher Olivia , Lesage Anne-Carole , Siproudhis Laurent , Piroth Lionel , Marchand Lucie , Heard Isabelle , Hoyeau Nadia , Henno Sébastien , Darragh Teresa M , Alberts Catharina J , Clifford Gary M , Etienney Isabelle ,   ANRS-EP57-APACHES Study group, Arvieux Cédric , Canestri Ana , Clifford Gary , Combes Jean-Damien , Costes-Martineau Valérie , Del Grande Jean , Didelot Jean-Michel , Etienney Isabelle , Falguières Michael , Ferry Tristan , Fischer Hugues , Flejou Jean-Francois , Heard Isabelle , Henno Sébastien , Hoyau Nadia , Landon Marine , Laude Hélène , Le Breton Frédérique , Lesage Anne-Carole , Lion Annie , Maincent Gilles , Marchand Lucie , Andrianiaina Haingo Njatonirina , Patey Olivier , Sanchez Ventzislava Petrov , Pialoux Gilles , Pirel Marion , Piroth Lionel , Poizot-Martin Isabelle , Radenne Sylvie , Ressiot Emmanuelle , Reynes Jacques , Siproudhis Laurent , Tamalet Catherine , Tattevin Pierre , Zaegel-Faucher Olivia
Published: November 2023

We assessed cumulative detection and determinants of anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) in men who have sex with men living with human immunodeficiency virus and who underwent 3 visits over 2 years, with cytology and high-resolution anoscopy, within the ANRS-EP57-APACHES study. The cumulative HSIL detection rate was 33% (134 of 410), of which 48% HSILs were detected at baseline. HSIL detection varied considerably by center (from 13% to 51%). The strongest HSIL determinants were baseline human papillomavirus 16 (adjusted odds ratio, 8.2; 95% confidence interval, 3.6–18.9) and p16/Ki67 (4.6 [2.3–9.1]). Repeated annual cytology and high-resolution anoscopy improved HSIL detection but did not fully compensate for between-center heterogeneity.
Physics-driven cycle network for seismic impedance inversion using conditional generative adversarial networks
Authors: Wang Yaojun , Zong Jingjing , Wang Liangji , Zou Bangli , Chen Ziteng , Luo Yang
Published: November 2023

Despite the extensive application of artificial neural networks in seismic inversion, their effectiveness is often hampered by the limited availability of labeled data. To address this challenge, we introduce a novel method for seismic impedance inversion. Our approach integrates a physics-driven cycle network with a conditional generative adversarial network (CGAN) and a convolutional model. Employing seismic data as the input, the CGAN capitalizes on inherent information to minimize non-uniqueness during inversion. Furthermore, the convolutional model, acting as a physics-informed operator, reverts the derived impedance data back to seismic form, enabling simultaneous training of neural networks with labeled and unlabeled data, fulfilling the seismic-to-seismic cycle. The proposed method is demonstrated to be effective on tests using both theoretical models and field data.
A multiplexed time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer ultrahigh-throughput screening assay for targeting the SMAD4–SMAD3–DNA complex
Authors: Ouyang Wukun , Li Qianjin , Niu Qiankun , Qui Min , Fu Haian , Du Yuhong , Mo Xiulei
Published: November 2023

The transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway plays crucial roles in the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, making anti-TGFβ agents a significant area of interest in cancer immunotherapy. However, the clinical translation of current anti-TGFβ agents that target upstream cytokines and receptors remains challenging. Therefore, the development of small-molecule inhibitors specifically targeting SMAD4, the downstream master regulator of the TGFβ pathway, would offer an alternative approach with significant therapeutic potential for anti-TGFβ signaling. In this study, we present the development of a cell lysate-based multiplexed time-resolved fluorescence resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) assay in an ultrahigh-throughput screening (uHTS) 1536-well plate format. This assay enables simultaneous monitoring of the protein‒protein interaction between SMAD4 and SMAD3, as well as the protein‒DNA interaction between SMADs and their consensus DNA-binding motif. The multiplexed TR-FRET assay exhibits high sensitivity, allowing the dynamic analysis of the SMAD4–SMAD3–DNA complex at single-amino acid resolution. Moreover, the multiplexed uHTS assay demonstrates robustness for screening small-molecule inhibitors. Through a pilot screening of an FDA-approved bioactive compound library, we identified gambogic acid and gambogenic acid as potential hit compounds. These proof-of-concept findings underscore the utility of our optimized multiplexed TR-FRET platform for large-scale screening to discover small-molecule inhibitors that target the SMAD4–SMAD3–DNA complex as novel anti-TGFβ signaling agents.
Genotypic characterization of Streptococcus didelphis causative of fatal infection in white-eared opossums
Authors: Breyer Gabriela Merker , Rocha Jacques da Silva Maria Eduarda , Slaviero Mônica , Albuquerque de Almeida Bruno , Machado Sousa da Silva Emanoelly , de Queiroz Schmidt Victória Regina , Alievi Marcelo , Maboni Grazieli , Petinatti Pavarini Saulo , Maboni Siqueira Franciele
Published: November 2023

Streptococcus didelphis was once reported as related to severe infections in opossums. Thus, we present the first comprehensive whole-genome characterization of clinical S. didelphis strains isolated from white-eared opossums (Didelphis albiventris). Long-read whole-genome sequencing was performed using the MinION platform, which allowed the prediction of several genomic features. We observed that S. didelphis genomes harbor a cluster for streptolysin biosynthesis and a conserved genomic island with genes involved in transcriptional regulation (arlR) and transmembrane transport (bcrA). Antimicrobial resistance genes for several drug classes were found, including beta-lactam, which is the main antimicrobial class used in Streptococcus spp. infections; however, no phenotypical resistance was observed. In addition, we predicted the presence of 33 virulence factors in the analyzed genomes. High phylogenetic similarity was observed between clinical and reference strains, yet no clonality was suggested. We also proposed dnaN, gki, pros, and xpt as housekeeping candidates to be used in S. didelphis sequence typing. This is the first whole-genome characterization of S. didelphis, whose data provide important insights into its pathogenicity.
An empirical reionization history model inferred from the low-redshift Lyman continuum survey and the star-forming galaxies at z > 8
Authors: Lin Yu-Heng , Scarlata Claudia , Williams Hayley , Chen Wenlei , Kelly Patrick , Langeroodi Danial , Hjorth Jens , Chisholm John , Koekemoer Anton M , Zitrin Adi , Diego Jose M
Published: November 2023

We present a new analysis of the rest-frame ultraviolet (UV) and optical spectra of a sample of three z > 8 galaxies discovered behind the gravitational lensing cluster RX J2129.4+0009. We combine these observations with z > 7.5 galaxies from the literature, for which similar measurements are available. As already pointed out in other studies, the high [O iii]λ5007/[O ii]λ3727 ratios (O32) and steep UV continuum slopes (β) are consistent with the values observed for low-redshift Lyman continuum emitters, suggesting that such galaxies contribute to the ionizing budget of the intergalactic medium. We construct a logistic regression model to estimate the probability of a galaxy being a Lyman continuum emitter based on the measured MUV, β, and O32. Using this probability and the UV luminosity function, we construct an empirical model that estimates the contribution of high-redshift galaxies to reionization. The preferred scenario in our analysis shows that at z ∼ 8, the average escape fraction of the galaxy population [i.e. including both LyC emitters (LCEs) and non-emitters] varies with MUV, with intermediate UV luminosity (−19 < MUV < −16) galaxies having larger escape fraction. Galaxies with faint UV luminosity (−16 < MUV < −13.5) contribute most of the ionizing photons. The relative contribution of faint versus bright galaxies depends on redshift, with the intermediate UV galaxies becoming more important over time. UV bright galaxies, although more likely to be LCEs at a given log(O32) and β, contribute the least of the total ionizing photon budget.
Cosmic star-formation history and black hole accretion history inferred from the JWST mid-infrared source counts
Authors: Kim Seong Jin , Goto Tomotsugu , Ling Chih-Teng , Wu Cossas K-W , Hashimoto Tetsuya , Kilerci Ece , Ho Simon C-C , Uno Yuri , Wang Po-Ya , Lin Yu-Wei
Published: November 2023

With the advent of the JWST, extragalactic source count studies were conducted down to sub-μJy in the mid-infrared (MIR), which is several tens of times fainter than what the previous-generation infrared (IR) telescopes achieved in the MIR. In this work, we aim to interpret the JWST source counts and constrain cosmic star-formation history (CSFH) and black hole accretion history (BHAH). We employ the backward evolution of local luminosity functions (LLFs) of galaxies to reproduce the observed source counts from sub-μJy to a few tens of mJy in the MIR bands of the JWST. The shapes of the LLFs at the MIR bands are determined using the model templates of the spectral energy distributions (SEDs) for five representative galaxy types (star-forming galaxies, starbursts, composite, AGN type 2 and 1). By simultaneously fitting our model to all the source counts in the six MIR bands, along with the previous results, we determine the best-fitting evolutions of MIR LFs for each of the five galaxy types, and subsequently estimate the CSFH and BHAH. Thanks to the JWST, our estimates are based on several tens of times fainter MIR sources, the existence of which was merely an extrapolation in previous studies.
Association of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Absolute Lymphocyte Count With Clinical Outcomes in Advanced Breast Cancer in the MONARCH 2 Trial
Authors: Tokunaga Eriko , Miyoshi Yasuo , Dozono Koji , Kawaguchi Tsutomu , Toi Masakazu
Published: November 2023

Background

Established prognostic factors for treatment response to cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 inhibitors are currently lacking. We aimed to investigate the relationship of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) to abemaciclib outcomes.

Patients and Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of data from MONARCH 2, a phase III study of abemaciclib or placebo plus fulvestrant in hormone-receptor positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2−) advanced breast cancer that progressed on endocrine therapy. Patients were divided into high and low categories based on baseline NLR (cutoff: 2.5) and ALC (cutoff: 1.5 × 109/L). The association of baseline NLR and ALC with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) was explored using Cox models and Kaplan-Meier estimates. Tumor response and safety were also examined.

Results

NLR and ALC data were available for 645 patients (abemaciclib: N = 426; placebo: N = 219). Low-baseline NLR or high-baseline ALC was consistently associated with positive PFS and OS trends; low-baseline NLR subgroups also showed trends for better response. The abemaciclib treatment effect against placebo was observed regardless of baseline NLR or ALC. Univariate analyses showed baseline NLR and ALC were prognostic of PFS and OS. Baseline NLR remained significant in the multivariate model (P < .0001). No unexpected differences in safety were observed by baseline NLR or ALC.

Conclusion

Baseline NLR was independently prognostic of PFS and OS. Low-baseline NLR was associated with numerically better efficacy outcomes, but the benefit of adding abemaciclib to fulvestrant was similar irrespective of baseline NLR status.
Managing an ageing workforce: workplace retention practices and early labour market exit
Authors: Qvist Jeevitha Yogachandiran
Published: November 2023

This study addresses a critical gap in our understanding of how the employer and workplace context influences the working career of older employees. Leveraging linked employer–employee data, this study examines the impact of workplace retention practices on an early labour market exit for employees aged fifty-five to sixty-four in Denmark. The findings reveal that, for those eligible for early retirement, work environment adaptation, re-employment of retired employees, and positive views of older employees’ productivity significantly contribute to avoiding early retirement. However, these workplace retention practices do not influence unemployment, emphasizing their effectiveness in postponing early retirement rather than mitigating job loss. Moreover, the analysis shows that employees with managerial roles and high skill levels benefit more from workplace retention practices in terms of avoiding both early retirement and unemployment. This finding highlights the employer’s key role in shaping inequalities in an ageing workforce by selectively providing opportunities to extend working lives.
Identification of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, the Huanglongbing Bacterium, in Citrus from Colombia
Authors: Chaves-Sierra Catalina , Rodriguez-Cruz María Camila , Mejia-Alvarado Fernan Santiago , Ramírez-Higuera Carolina , Mejía-Eslava Antonio , Romero Hernán Mauricio
Published: November 2023

‘Candidatus Liberibacter’ spp. are the most prevalent microorganisms in the citrus plant, associated with citrus huanglongbing, which are transmitted by psyllid vectors. In Colombia, the vector Diaphorina citri Kuwayama has been reported in different regions, but ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) has only been detected in insect vectors, not in citrus host plants. To identify the presence and quantify the pathogen in citrus tissues, we employed a combined strategy that involved three techniques based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). First, we used endpoint PCR with specific primers for CLas (OI1/OI2c) to confirm the infection. Second, we used qPCR with specific primers CIT295a/CIT298 designed on 16S rDNA gene regions to quantify the pathogen load. Finally, we used droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) to determine the copy number of the pathogen in citrus tissues using the β-subunit of the ribonucleotide reductase gene (nrdB) that is specific to CLas. We identified the presence of CLas in citrus plants for the first time in Colombia and quantified its titer in the plant tissue. We employed ddPCR and qPCR to provide crucial information for the country’s disease management, control strategies, and general crop health.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Mustn1 ablation in skeletal muscle results in functional alterations
Authors: Kim Charles J. , Singh Chanpreet , Kaczmarek Marina , O'Donnell Madison , Lee Christine , DiMagno Kevin , Young Melody W. , Letsou William , Ramos Raddy L. , Granatosky Michael C. , Hadjiargyrou Michael
Published: November 2023

Mustn1, a gene expressed exclusively in the musculoskeletal system, was shown in previous in vitro studies to be a key regulator of myogenic differentiation and myofusion. Other studies also showed Mustn1 expression associated with skeletal muscle development and hypertrophy. However, its specific role in skeletal muscle function remains unclear. This study sought to investigate the effects of Mustn1 in a conditional knockout (KO) mouse model in Pax7 positive skeletal muscle satellite cells. Specifically, we investigated the potential effects of Mustn1 on myogenic gene expression, grip strength, alterations in gait, ex vivo investigations of isolated skeletal muscle isometric contractions, and potential changes in the composition of muscle fiber types. Results indicate that Mustn1 KO mice did not present any substantial phenotypic changes or significant variations in genes related to myogenic differentiation and fusion. However, an approximately 10% decrease in overall grip strength was observed in the 2‐month‐old KO mice in comparison to the control wild type (WT), but this decrease was not significant when normalized by weight. KO mice also generated approximately 8% higher vertical force than WT at 4 months in the hindlimb. Ex vivo experiments revealed decreases in about 20 to 50% in skeletal muscle contractions and about 10%–20% fatigue in soleus of both 2‐ and 4‐month‐old KO mice, respectively. Lastly, immunofluorescent analyses showed a persistent increase of Type IIb fibers up to 15‐fold in the KO mice while Type I fibers decreased about 20% and 30% at both 2 and 4 months, respectively. These findings suggest a potential adaptive or compensatory mechanism following Mustn1 loss, as well as hinting at an association between Mustn1 and muscle fiber typing. Collectively, Mustn1's complex roles in skeletal muscle physiology requires further research, particularly in terms of understanding the potential role of Mustn1 in muscle repair and regeneration, as well as with influence of exercise. Collectively, these will offer valuable insights into Mustn1's key biological functions and regulatory pathways.
The Optimal Age for Surgical Management of DDH Differs by Treatment Method
Authors: Martino Rachael , Carry Patrick , Adams Jordyn , Brandt Aaron , Sink Ernest , Selberg Courtney
Published: November 2023

Background:

There is a lack of consensus on the optimal age for specific surgical interventions for developmental dysplasia of the hip. We compared radiographic and clinical outcomes among patients who were treated with closed reduction (CR), open reduction (OR), and open reduction with concomitant pelvic osteotomy (ORP) for the treatment of a dislocated hip. We sought to identify the optimal age at treatment within each of these groups.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 256 hips (n=195 patients) who underwent CR (n=96), OR (n=116), or an ORP (n=44) as their index procedure at a single institution between January 1, 2004 and September 23, 2020. Radiographic outcomes included acetabular index, The International Hip Dysplasia Institute classification, and acetabular depth ratio. The incidence of further corrective surgery (FCS), defined as the need for an additional femoral and/or pelvic osteotomy before skeletal maturity, and the optimal age cutoffs for index surgery within each surgical group were determined.

Results:

After adjusting for age and sex, the incidence of FCS was 13.8% in the CR group, 29.2% in the OR group, and 9.2% in the ORP group. Earlier surgery was protective against FCS in the CR and OR groups. In contrast, patients in the ORP group who were older at index procedure were less likely to undergo FCS. Optimal age at surgery was 9.9 months (CR), 11.5 months (OR), and 21.4 months (ORP). Compared with older patients, younger patients were associated with a larger average decrease in the acetabular index and a larger average increase in acetabular width during the first 5 years post surgery.

Conclusions:

Age at index surgical procedure was correlated with both clinical and radiographic outcomes. Age at index procedure did impact the risk of subsequent FCS, particularly in the CR and ORP groups. Based on our analysis, CR should be considered before 9.9 months of age and OR considered before 11.5 months of age to minimize the risk of FCS during childhood. This work highlights the importance of considering age-related heterogeneity in developmental dysplasia of the hip treatment outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective comparative study.
Comparison of Bone Mineral Density in Children and Adolescents on CT Versus DEXA Scan
Authors: Nagata Kosei , Glassman Steven D. , Dimar John R. , Cabell Akaila , Brown Morgan , Daniels Christy , Schmidt Grant O. , Carreon Leah Y.
Published: November 2023

Study Design.

Retrospective cross-sectional.

Objectives.

To determine associations between Hounsfield units (HU) within a region of interest on computed tomography (CT) scans and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) measurements in children and adolescents.

Summary of Background Data.

HU on CT scans as a proxy for bone mineral density (BMD) is widely used in adults. However, the utility of CT as a proxy for BMD have not been evaluated in children and adolescents.

Materials and Methods.

Patients younger than 18 years with a lumbar spine CT scan and a DEXA within 6 months of each other were identified. A region of interest was used to measure the HU at each lumbar vertebral body on midaxial cuts. Charts were reviewed for demographics, medical comorbidities, and DEXA reports. Correlation coefficients were calculated between the mean DEXA Z-score and the HU value. Patients were also stratified by Z-score (≥ −1.0, between −1.0 and −2.0, and ≤−2.0) and matched by age, sex and body mass index (BMI) to a cohort of healthy children and compared.

Results.

A moderate correlation between mean DEXA Z-score and mean HU on CT was found (r
2=0.42, P<0.001). After matching for age, sex and BMI, 21 patients in each group between the ages of 4 and 17 years were analyzed. The mean HU value of the control group was 231.69. When stratified by Z-score (≥ −1.0, between −1.0 and −2.0, and ≤−2.0), the mean HU values were 244.59, 216.50, and 176.54, respectively. Patients with a Z-score of ≤−2.0 had a significantly lower mean HU than matched controls.

Conclusions.

HU on lumbar CT in children and adolescents with DEXA Z-scores <−2.0, were lower when compared with healthy matched controls. This study suggests that HU on opportunistic CT scans of the spine may be used as a reasonable proxy for BMD in the pediatric population.
BODY-Q Normative Scores: Psychometric Validation of the BODY-Q in the General Population in Europe and North America
Authors: Dalaei Farima , de Vries Claire E.E. , Cano Stefan J. , Kaur Manraj N. , Poulsen Lotte , Pfob André , Mou Danny , Repo Jussi P. , Salzillo Rosa , Opyrchal Jakub , Sørensen Jens A. , Pusic Andrea L. , Klassen Anne F.
Published: November 2023

Background:

BODY-Q is a rigorously developed patient-reported outcome measure designed to measure outcomes of weight loss and body contouring patients. To allow interpretation and comparison of BODY-Q scores across studies, normative BODY-Q values were generated from the general population. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of BODY-Q in the normative population.

Methods:

Data were collected using two crowdsourcing platforms (Prolific and Amazon Mechanical Turk) in 12 European and North American countries. Rasch measurement theory (RMT) was used to examine reliability and validity of BODY-Q scales.

Results:

RMT analysis supported the psychometric properties of BODY-Q in the normative sample with ordered thresholds in all items and nonsignificant chi-square values for 167 of 176 items. Reliability was high with person separation index of greater than or equal to 0.70 in 20 of 22 scales and Cronbach alpha values of greater than or equal to 0.90 in 17 of 22 scales. Mean scale scores measuring appearance, health-related quality of life, and eating-related concerns scales varied as predicted across subgroups with higher scores reported by participants who were more satisfied with their weight. Analysis to explore differential item functioning by sample (normative versus field-test) flagged some potential issues, but subsequent comparison of adjusted and unadjusted person estimates provided evidence that the scoring algorithm worked equivalently for the normative sample as in the field-test samples.

Conclusions:

The BODY-Q scales showed acceptable reliability and validity in the normative sample. The normative values can be used as reference in research and clinical practice in combination with local estimates for parallel analysis and comparison.
Transconjunctival Approach for Involutional Entropion: Suggestions and Drawbacks
Authors: Sakata Yasuhiro , Uemura Kazuhisa , Nariyama Akihiro , Asamura Shinichi
Published: November 2023

Background:

Most current surgical approaches in involutional lower eyelid entropion (ILLE) repair focus upon lower eyelid retractor (LER), mainly through transcutaneous approaches. We have opted to use the transconjunctival approach because of the hidden postoperative scar and the shortest reach to the LER. Here, based on our experience, we present our suggestions and note some of the drawbacks regarding ILLE repair by the transconjunctival approach.

Methods:

Two surgeons performed entropion repair on 14 eyelids in 13 patients. Repairs were performed by a transconjunctival approach, where a part of the conjunctiva was at first incised with a scalpel, and the conjunctiva and LER were then separated at the lower edge of the tarsus with scissors. The anterior and posterior aspects of the LER were peeled off, and the LER was dissected into sheets. The LER was then fixed to the anterior–inferior border of the tarsus, and the conjunctiva was sutured. No postoperative gauze, tape dressings, or even suture removal were required.

Results:

Mean operating time was 32.6 minutes. Recurrence was observed in one of 14 patients at an average of 6.6 months postoperatively.

Conclusions:

We reported our suggestions and drawbacks of the transconjunctival approach for ILLE repair. We recommend sufficiently detaching the anterior–posterior aspects of the LER and fixing the LER to the anterior–inferior border of the tarsus. Drawbacks of this technique include the possibility of an insufficient correction in cases with a positive pinch test and medial traction test. Conversely, no further treatment or maintenance is required postoperatively.