bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-restricted eating and cancer: lessons learned and considerations for a path forward
Authors: Shams-White Marissa M , Goldbaum Audrey A , Agurs-Collins Tanya , Czajkowski Susan , Herrick Kirsten A , Nebeling Linda , Reedy Jill , Riscuta Gabriela , Ross Sharon , Sauter Edward R
Published: December 2024

Time-restricted eating is a type of intermittent fasting. Food can be consumed as desired during the eating period but not during the remainder of the day. Studies suggest that many of the health benefits of fasting may not simply be the result of weight loss but also due to the body’s responses to the fasting that leads to improved metabolic functioning. Whereas animal studies are convincing regarding the benefits of time-restricted feeding, human time-restricted eating studies are less consistent and generally short term (<1 year). In 2020, the National Cancer Institute funded 5 intermittent fasting studies, 4 of which focused on time-restricted eating, which addressed the question: How does intermittent fasting affect cancer incidence, treatment response, or outcome? The National Cancer Institute sponsored a webinar in 2023 featuring investigators of the funded studies in which they discussed challenges as well as their thoughts regarding the most important time-restricted eating topics that should be addressed going forward; 6 areas were identified, which are discussed below as well as in a recently published NOT-CA-24-073: Factors Impacting How Time-Restricted Eating (TRE) Influences Cancer-Related Outcomes. Moving the science forward will allow the scientific community to better understand time-restricted eating’s potential. This potential includes the development of targeted time-restricted eating interventions to optimize long-term adherence to the intervention, which is required to better understand its potential benefits in cancer risk and increased response to cancer treatment, as well as improved quality and quantity of life among cancer survivors.
Evaluating the performance of the Breast and Ovarian Analysis of Disease Incidence Algorithm model in predicting 10-year breast cancer risks in UK Biobank
Authors: Petitjean Carmen , Wilcox Naomi , Ficorella Lorenzo , Dennis Joe , Tyrer Jonathan , Lush Michael , Simard Jacques , Easton Douglas , Antoniou Antonis C , Yang Xin
Published: December 2024

Background

The Breast and Ovarian Analysis of Disease Incidence Algorithm (BOADICEA) model predicts breast cancer risk using cancer family history, epidemiological, and genetic data. We evaluated its validity in a large prospective cohort.

Methods

We assessed model calibration, discrimination and risk classification ability in 217 885 women (6838 incident breast cancers) aged 40-70 years of self-reported White ethnicity with no previous cancer from the UK Biobank. Age-specific risk classification was assessed using relative risk thresholds equivalent to the absolute lifetime risk categories of less than 17%, 17%-30%, and 30% or more, recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. We predicted 10-year risks using BOADICEA v.6 considering cancer family history, questionnaire-based risk factors, a 313–single nucleotide polymorphisms polygenic score, and pathogenic variants. Mammographic density data were not available.

Results

The polygenic risk score was the most discriminative risk factor (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.65). Discrimination was highest when considering all risk factors (AUC = 0.66). The model was well calibrated overall (expected-to-observed ratio = 0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.97 to 1.02; calibration slope = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.99 to 1.00), and in deciles of predicted risks. Discrimination was similar in women aged younger and older than 50 years. There was some underprediction in women aged younger than 50 years (expected-to-observed ratio = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.94; calibration slope = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94 to 0.97), which was explained by the higher breast cancer incidence in UK Biobank than the UK population incidence in this age group. The model classified 87.2%, 11.4%, and 1.4% of women in relative risk categories less than 1.6, 1.6-3.1, and at least 3.1, identifying 25.6% of incident breast cancer patients in category relative risk of at least 1.6.

Conclusion

BOADICEA, implemented in CanRisk (www.canrisk.org), provides valid 10-year breast cancer risk, which can facilitate risk-stratified screening and personalized breast cancer risk management.
Social risk factors and cancer prevention care among patients in community health-care settings
Authors: Banegas Matthew P , O’Malley Jean , Kaufmann Jorge , Marino Miguel , Gottlieb Laura M , Huguet Nathalie , Anyane-Yeboa Adjoa , Gold Rachel
Published: December 2024

Background

Social risks are negatively associated with receipt of cancer preventive care. As knowledge is lacking on the pathways underlying these associations, we investigated associations between patient-reported social risks and colorectal cancer (CRC), cervical cancer, and breast cancer screening order provision and screening completion.

Methods

This study included patients eligible for CRC, cervical cancer, or breast cancer screening at 186 community-based clinics between July 1, 2015, and February 29, 2020. Outcomes included up-to-date status for indicated cancer screenings at baseline; percentage of subsequent study months in which patients were up-to-date on screenings; screening order receipt; and screening completion. Independent variables were patient-reported food insecurity, transportation barriers, and housing instability. Analyses used covariate-adjusted generalized estimating equation models, stratified by social risk.

Results

Patients with documented social risks were less likely to be up-to-date on any cancer screening at baseline and in most cases had a lower rate of total study months up-to-date on screenings. All cancer screenings were ordered less often for food-insecure patients. Cervical cancer screening was ordered less often for transportation-insecure patients. The likelihood of completing a screening test differed statistically significantly by select social risks: Cervical cancer and CRC screening rates were lower among food-insecure patients, and CRC screening rates were lower among transportation-insecure patients. The likelihood of breast cancer screening completion did not differ by social risk status.

Conclusion

Social risks affect both the ordering and the receipt of cancer screening. Research is needed on strategies to mitigate the impact of different social risks on cancer early-detection services.
Total small bowel resection in a patient who refused surgery: why did the surgeon do it?
Authors: Henry Reynold , McGillen Patrick , Barry Wesley E , Wecsler Julie S , Knight Brandon , Matsushima Kazuhide , Van Zyl Carin , Crookes Peter
Published: December 2024

Gastric surgery may result in internal herniation of bowel, weeks to years after the initial surgery and can result in rapid onset of death if not promptly treated. We present a case in which a patient with this complication underwent surgery despite his clear refusal of surgery. The patient had a remote history of gastrectomy for malignancy. Several years later, he presented with the feared complication of an internal herniation to a local hospital. The initial surgeon recommended urgent operation to correct this. However, the patient refused. When he became comatose, the surgeon performed surgery, but the patient’s condition continued to deteriorate. The surgeon performed further surgery, eventually removing the entire small bowel, leaving nothing connecting the esophagus or effluent from the liver and pancreas. Although this was a fatal situation, he had temporary recovery sufficient to understand the nature of his prognosis and survived several weeks.
Giant primary omental cyst: an unusual cause of pseudoascites and hydrocele in a child
Authors: Mohamed Hanan Youssif , Joya Habib Ullah , Alansari Amani N
Published: December 2024

Abdominal lymphangiomas are benign congenital abnormal dilatation and proliferation of lymphatic spaces primarily seen in children. The wide spectrum of symptoms challenges preoperative diagnoses. We present a rare case of a 2-year-old boy presented to pediatrician with massive abdominal distention and left scrotal swelling since the age of 1½ years. Diagnosed and treated as ascites, the patient was referred to pediatric surgery for ascitic tap and hydrocele repair. An abdominal CT scan revealed a giant omental cyst. Laparotomy was performed to excise the cyst extending into left scrotum, and deep left inguinal ring was closed from within. Lymphangioma was histopathologically confirmed. To the best of our knowledge to date, only one case of an omental cystic lymphangioma presenting as bilateral hydroceles without abdominal symptoms has been reported. Nevertheless, this case is unique for the presentation of pseudoascites and a unilateral hydrocele.
Two-flap earlobe rotation for extensive mid-helix defect: a case report of a new modification to an existing technique
Authors: Ruelas-Villavicencio Ana L , Malagón-Liceaga Andrea
Published: December 2024

Reconstructing ear defects in very elderly patients is challenging, but one-step procedures are beneficial due to reduced morbidity and fewer hospital visits while maintaining ear size, shape, and symmetry. In 2018, Jaber et al. introduced a 90° earlobe rotation technique to repair full-thickness auricular defects while preserving the earlobe. We present a modified approach, dividing the earlobe into two flaps for better mobility, rotating them to cover a mid-helix defect in a 93-year-old patient. This is especially useful for older patients with large earlobes, who are prone to skin cancers like keratinocyte cancer. The cosmetic result is satisfactory, with minor asymmetries rarely an issue. This technique provides a practical, single-step solution for functional and esthetic reconstruction in elderly patients.
Better beans: designer TALE-mediated discovery of common bacterial blight resistance
Authors: Karki Sujit Jung
Published: December 2024

This article comments on:

Gaudin C, Preveaux A, Aubineau N, Le Goff D, Jacques M-A, Chen NWG. 2025. A dTALE approach demonstrates that induction of common bean OVATE Family Protein 7 promotes resistance to common bacterial blight. Journal of Experimental Botany 76, 607–620. https://doi.org/10.1093/jxb/erae433
Appeal, Revision, and Other Remedies
Authors: Ambos Kai
Published: December 2024

This chapter details the process of appeal, revision, and other possible remedies. It explains that the legal remedies available in the modern international criminal tribunals are appeal and revision. Appeal primarily focuses on the higher court and calls upon a magistrate to intercede. Moreover, the appeal is the ordinary remedy against a first instance (trial) judgment of acquittal or conviction in the international criminal procedure. On the other hand, revision is an extraordinary remedy against a final judgment of conviction or sentence. The chapter then elaborates on other remedies for prosecutorial investigation or prosecution decisions, procedural rights’ violations, and administrative decisions.
The Alphabet Soup of Microscopy: An Introduction to Advanced Imaging Techniques. Part III: A Combo Platter of CLEM, AFM, TIRF, SPIM, and TPEF-SHG
Authors: Worden Austin N
Published: December 2024

The practice of combining imaging modalities emerged from the quest to discover novel insights into the structure and function of various samples. As these techniques merge, so do their names, creating a plethora of unique acronyms that can seem like an alphabet soup. Highlighted here are several notable combination techniques such as Correlative Light and Electron Microscopy (CLEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF), Selective Plane Illumination Microscopy (SPIM), and Two-Photon Excited Fluorescence – Second Harmonic Generation (TPEF-SHG). Each of these methods extends beyond the capabilities of their individual components to significantly advance scientific research. This article, Part 3 of our “Alphabet Soup of Microscopy” series, seeks to distinguish these popular combination techniques from their standalone predecessors.
A shallow slope for the stellar mass–angular momentum relation of star-forming galaxies at 1.5 < z < 2.5
Authors: Salcedo Juan M Espejo , Glazebrook Karl , Fisher Deanne B , Sweet Sarah M , Obreschkow Danail , Schreiber N M Förster
Published: December 2024

We present measurements of the specific angular momentum $j_\star$ of 41 star-forming galaxies at $1.5\lt z\lt 2.5$. These measurements are based on radial profiles inferred from near-infrared Hubble Space Telescope photometry, along with multiresolution emission-line kinematic modelling using integral field spectroscopy (IFS) data from K-band multi-object spectrograph, Spectrograph for Integral Field Observations in the Near Infrared, and OH-Suppressing Infra-Red Imaging Spectrograph. We identified 24 discs (disc fraction of $58.6\pm 7.7~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$) and used them to parametrize the $j_\star$ versus stellar mass $M_\star$ relation (Fall relation) as $j_\star \propto M_\star ^{\beta }$. We measure a power-law slope $\beta =0.25\pm 0.15$, which deviates by approximately $3\sigma$ from the commonly adopted local value $\beta = 0.67$, indicating a statistically significant difference. We find that two key systematic effects could drive the steep slopes in previous high-redshift studies: first, including irregular (non-disc) systems due to limitations in spatial resolution and second, using the commonly used approximation $\tilde{j}_\star \approx k_n v_s r_\mathrm{eff}$, which depends on global unresolved quantities. In our sample, both effects lead to steeper slopes of $\beta =0.48\pm 0.21$ and $0.61\pm 0.21$, respectively. To understand the shallow slope, we discuss observational effects and systematic uncertainties and analyse the retention of $j_\star$ relative to the angular momentum of the halo $j_h$ (angular momentum retention factor $f_j =j_\star /j_h$). For the $M_\star$ range covered by the sample $9.5 \lt \log _{10} (M_\star /\mathrm{ M}_\odot) \lt 11.5$ (halo mass $11.5 \lt \log _{10} (M_h/\mathrm{ M}_\odot) \lt 14$), we find large $f_j$ values ($\gt 1$ in some cases) in low-mass haloes that decrease with increasing mass, suggesting a significant role of efficient angular momentum transport in these gas-rich systems, aided by the removal of low-$j_\star$ gas via feedback-driven outflows in low-mass galaxies.
Radio galaxies in simba: a MIGHTEE comparison
Authors: Thomas Nicole L , Whittam Imogen H , Hale Catherine L , Morabito Leah K , Davé Romeel , Jarvis Matt J , Cook Robin H W
Published: December 2024

We present a qualitative comparison between the host and black hole properties of radio galaxies in the MeerKAT International GHz Tiered Extragalactic Exploration (MIGHTEE) survey with the radio galaxy population in the simba suite of cosmological hydrodynamical simulations. The MIGHTEE data include a $\sim$1 deg$^{2}$ pointing of the COSMOS field observed at 1.28 GHz with the MeerKAT radio telescope and cross-matched with multiwavelength counterparts to provide classifications of high- and low-excitation radio galaxies (HERGs and LERGs) along with their corresponding host properties. We compare the properties of the MIGHTEE HERGs and LERGs with that predicted by the simba simulations where HERGs and LERGs are defined as radio galaxies dominated by cold or hot mode accretion, respectively. We consider stellar masses $\,\,{M}_{*}$, star formation rates SFR, AGN bolometric luminosity $L_{\rm bol}$, and Eddington fraction $f_{\rm Edd}$, as a function of 1.4 GHz radio luminosity and redshift. In both MIGHTEE and simba, the properties of HERGs and LERGs are similar across all properties apart from SFRs due to differences in host cold gas content in simba. We predict a population of HERGs with low $f_{\rm Edd}$ in simba that are confirmed in the MIGHTEE observations and tied to the faint population at low z. The predictions from simba with the MIGHTEE observations describe a regime where our understanding of the radio galaxy dichotomy breaks down, challenging our understanding of the role of AGN accretion and feedback in the faint population of radio galaxies.
The impact on astrometry by solar-wind effect in pulsar timing
Authors: Liu K , Parthasarathy A , Keith M , Tiburzi C , Susarla S C , Antoniadis J , Chalumeau A , Chen S , Cognard I , Golden A , Grießmeier J -M , Guillemot L , Janssen G H , Keane E F , Kramer M , McKee J W , Mickaliger M B , Theureau G , Wang J
Published: December 2024

Astrometry of pulsars, particularly their distances, serves as a critical input for various astrophysical experiments using pulsars. Pulsar timing is a primary approach for determining a pulsar’s position, parallax, and distance. In this paper, we explore the influence of the solar wind on astrometric measurements obtained through pulsar timing, focusing on its potential to affect the accuracy of these parameters. Using both theoretical calculation and mock-data simulations, we demonstrate a significant correlation between the pulsar position, annual parallax, and the solar-wind density parameters. This correlation strongly depends on the pulsar’s ecliptic latitude. We show that fixing solar-wind density to an arbitrary value in the timing analysis can introduce significant bias in the estimated pulsar position and parallax, and its significance is highly dependent on the ecliptic latitude of the pulsar and the timing precision of the data. For pulsars with favourable ecliptic latitude and timing precision, the astrometric and solar-wind parameters can be measured jointly with other timing parameters using single-frequency data. The parameter correlation can be mitigated by using multifrequency data, which also significantly improves the measurement precision of these parameters; this is particularly important for pulsars at a medium or high ecliptic latitude. Additionally, for a selection of pulsars we reprocess their European Pulsar Timing Array Data Release 2 data to include modelling of solar-wind effect in the timing analysis. This delivers significant measurements of both parallax and solar-wind density, the latter of which are consistent with those obtained at low-frequency band. In the future, combining pulsar timing data at gigahertz and lower frequencies will probably deliver the most robust and precise measurements of astrometry and solar wind properties in pulsar timing.
A GTC spectroscopic study of three spider pulsar companions: line-based temperatures, a new face-on redback, and improved mass constraints
Authors: Simpson Jordan A , Linares Manuel , Casares Jorge , Shahbaz Tariq , Sen Bidisha , Camilo Fernando
Published: December 2024

We present GTC-OSIRIS phase-resolved optical spectroscopy of three compact binary millisecond pulsars, or ‘spiders’: PSR J1048+2339, PSR J1810+1744, and (for the first time) PSR J1908+2105. For the companion in each system, the temperature is traced throughout its orbit, and radial velocities are measured. The radial velocities are found to vary with the absorption features used when measuring them, resulting in different radial velocity curve semi-amplitudes: for J1048 ($K_\mathrm{metals, red} = 344 \pm 4{\mathrm{\, km\, s^{-1}}}{}$ and $K_\mathrm{metals, blue} = 372 \pm 3{\mathrm{\, km\, s^{-1}}}{}$) and, tentatively, for J1810 ($K_\mathrm{Balmer} = 448 \pm 19{\mathrm{\, km\, s^{-1}}}{}$ and $K_\mathrm{metals} = 491 \pm 32{\mathrm{\, km\, s^{-1}}}{}$). With existing inclination constraints, this gives the neutron star (NS) and companion masses $M_\mathrm{NS} = 1.50$–$2.04{\, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{}$ and $M_2 = 0.32$–$0.40{\, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{}$ for J1048, and $M_\mathrm{NS} \gt 1.7{\, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{}$ and $M_2 = 0.05$–$0.08{\, {\rm M}_{\odot }}{}$ for J1810. For J1908, we find an upper limit of $K_2 \lt 32{\mathrm{\, km\, s^{-1}}}{}$, which constrains its mass ratio $q = M_2 / M_\mathrm{NS} \gt 0.55$ and inclination $i \lt 6.0^\circ$, revealing the previously misunderstood system to be the highest mass ratio, lowest inclination redback yet. This raises questions for the origins of its substantial radio eclipses. Additionally, we find evidence of asymmetric heating in J1048 and J1810, and signs of metal enrichment in J1908. We also explore the impact of inclination on spectroscopic temperatures, and demonstrate that the temperature measured at quadrature ($\phi = 0.25\,\mathrm{ and}\,0.75$) is essentially independent of inclination, and thus can provide additional constraints on photometric modelling.
Effective use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene cable and Krackow suture for stretched out patellar tendon due to scarring in a case with rheumatoid arthritis post-total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Kinoshita Eiji , Kondo Naoki , Tanifuji Osamu , Kakutani Rika , Hao Nariaki , Kawashima Hiroyuki
Published: December 2024

Patellar tendon rupture is a severe complication following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We encountered a case of rheumatoid arthritis with an incomplete rupture of the patellar tendon post-TKA. An 84-year-old woman was diagnosed with an incomplete rupture of the right patellar tendon 3 months post-TKA of her right knee. The patient exhibited a 45° extension lag 6 months post-TKA, necessitating reconstruction surgery. Intraoperative findings revealed incomplete rupture of the patellar tendon that was stretched out, diagnosed as incomplete patellar tendon rupture. Due to knee valgus instability (passive knee valgus showed 20°), the thickness of the tibial insert was adjusted from 11 to 15 mm, resulting in improved valgus instability. The scarring region of the patellar tendon was resected to 10 mm in length, and the tendon was repaired using an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene cable (Nesplon cable) and Krackow suture. The repair was secured by making an 8-figure pattern with the cable. After the reconstruction surgery, the knee was immobilised at 0° extension for 3 weeks, followed by the initiation of range-of-motion exercises. Three months later, the extension lag was reduced to −15°, and the patient could walk without orthosis and reported neither instability nor surgical site infection at 8 months after the surgery. In conclusion, this case is notable due to the rarity of incomplete (stretched out) patellar tendon rupture post-TKA and demonstrates the effectiveness of Nesplon cable with Krackow suture in reconstruction surgery.
Assessing energy poverty and its determinants in the West African Economic and Monetary Union countries: a multidimensional analysis
Authors: Compaore Dimaviya Eugène , Guira Asmo , Maiga Boukaré
Published: December 2024

Household access to modern energy sources remains a major challenge in developing countries. Most households in the countries of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) are still dependent on inefficient cooking and lighting systems, which affect the socio-economic development of these households. This article assesses the extent of multidimensional energy poverty in the WAEMU. Multidimensional energy poverty is broken down according to the socio-demographic characteristics of households and WAEMU member countries. The document also analyses the socio-economic factors that influence multidimensional energy poverty in WAEMU countries.
[442]Fourth Day
Authors: Galileo Galilei
Published: December 2024

Sagredo.

I don’t know whether you really are later than usual in returning to continue our discussion, or whether it is just my eagerness to hear Salviati’s views on such a fascinating subject that has made it seem so. I’ve been waiting at the window...
Collective Consent to Xenotransplantation: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Bobier Christopher , Omelianchuk Adam , Rodger Daniel , Hurst Daniel J
Published: December 2024

Solid organ xenotransplantation may have the potential to help address the shortage of organs for transplantation. There is concern, however, that a novel zoonotic disease could be transmitted from the source organ to the human recipient, and then from the recipient to others. Theoretically, this could result in an epidemic or pandemic. Because of this potential risk, it has been argued that collective consent is required. Our goal is to critically evaluate the claim that collective consent is necessary for xenotransplantation to be ethically permissible. We argue that collective consent is not required and highlight the important roles of public engagement and due diligence in xenotransplant research moving forward.
XYLAN O-ACETYLTRANSFERASE 6 promotes xylan synthesis by forming a complex with IRX10 and governs wall formation in rice
Authors: Wen Zhao , Xu Zuopeng , Zhang Lanjun , Xue Yi , Wang Hang , Jian Lin , Ma Jianing , Liu Zhuolin , Yang Hanlei , Huang Shaohui , Kang Xue , Zhou Yihua , Zhang Baocai
Published: December 2024

Xylan, a pivotal polymer with diversified structures, is indispensable for cell wall integrity and contributes to plant growth and biomass recalcitrance. Xylan is synthesized by multienzyme complexes named xylan synthase complexes (XSCs). However, the biochemical mechanism of XSCs and the functions of core components within XSC remain unclear. Here, we report that rice (Oryza sativa) XYLAN O-ACETYLTRANSFERASE 6 (XOAT6) and the xylan synthase IRREGULAR XYLEM10 (IRX10) represent core components of the XSC, acting together to biosynthesize acetyl-xylans. Co-fractionation mass spectrometry and protein–protein interaction analyses revealed that IRX10 and XOAT6 physically interact within XSC, corroborated by similar xylan defects in xoat6 and irx10 mutants. Biochemical assays showed that XOAT6 is an O-acetyltransferase of the xylan backbone and facilitates chain polymerization catalyzed by IRX10. Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy further visualized the xylooligomer polymerization process at a single-molecule level. Solid-state NMR analysis, electron microscopy observations, and nanoindentation examinations identified the altered xylan conformation, disorganized cellulosic structure, and increased wall rigidity and cellulose accessibility in the mutants, leading to brittleness and improved saccharification efficiency. Our findings provide insights into the assembly of XSCs and xylan biosynthesis and offer a framework for tailoring xylans to improve crop traits and biomass.
Temperature-driven changes in membrane fluidity differentially impact FILAMENTATION TEMPERATURE-SENSITIVE H2-mediated photosystem II repair
Authors: Zhang Jingzhi , Lee Keun Pyo , Liu Yanling , Kim Chanhong
Published: December 2024

The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) yellow variegated2 (var2) mutant, lacking functional FILAMENTATION TEMPERATURE-SENSITIVE H2 (FtsH2), an ATP-dependent zinc metalloprotease, is a powerful tool for studying the photosystem II (PSII) repair process in plants. FtsH2, forming hetero-hexamers with FtsH1, FtsH5, and FtsH8, plays an indispensable role in PSII proteostasis. Although abiotic stresses like cold and heat increase chloroplast reactive oxygen species (ROS) and PSII damage, var2 mutants behave like wild-type plants under heat stress but collapse under cold stress. Our study on transgenic var2 lines expressing FtsH2 variants, defective in either substrate extraction or proteolysis, reveals that cold stress causes an increase in membrane viscosity, demanding more substrate extraction power than proteolysis by FtsH2. Overexpression of FtsH2 lacking substrate extraction activity does not rescue the cold-sensitive phenotype, while overexpression of FtsH2 lacking protease activity does in var2, with other FtsH isomers present. This indicates that FtsH2's substrate extraction activity is indispensable under cold stress when membranes become more viscous. As temperatures rise and membrane fluidity increases, substrate extraction activity from other isomers suffices, explaining the var2 mutant's heat stress resilience. These findings underscore the direct effect of membrane fluidity on the functionality of the thylakoid FtsH complex under stress. Future research should explore how membrane fluidity impacts proteostasis, potentially uncovering strategies to modulate thermosensitivity.
Cyclic di-AMP regulates genome stability and drug resistance in Mycobacterium through RecA-dependent and RecA-independent recombination
Authors: Mudgal Sudhanshu , Goyal Nisha , Kasi Manikandan , Saginela Rahul , Singhal Anusha , Nandi Soumyadeep , Mahmud A K M Firoj , Muniyappa Kalappa , Sinha Krishna Murari
Published: December 2024

In Escherichia coli, RecA plays a central role in the rescue of stalled replication forks, double-strand break (DSB) repair, homologous recombination (HR), and induction of the SOS response. While the RecA-dependent pathway is dominant, alternative HR pathways that function independently of RecA do exist, but relatively little is known about the underlying mechanism. Several studies have documented that a variety of proteins act as either positive or negative regulators of RecA to ensure high-fidelity HR and genomic stability. Along these lines, we previously demonstrated that the second messenger cyclic di-AMP (c-di-AMP) binds to mycobacterial RecA proteins, but not to E. coli RecA, and inhibits its DNA strand exchange activity in vitro via the disassembly of RecA nucleoprotein filaments. Herein, we demonstrate that Mycobacterium smegmatis ΔdisA cells, which lack c-di-AMP, exhibit increased DNA recombination, higher frequency of mutation, and gene duplications during RecA-dependent and RecA-independent DSB repair. We also found that c-di-AMP regulates SOS response by inhibiting RecA-mediated self-cleavage of LexA repressor and its absence enhances drug resistance in M. smegmatis ΔdisA cells. Together, our results uncover a role of c-di-AMP in the maintenance of genomic stability through modulation of DSB repair in M. smegmatis.
Cluster Configurations in Li Isotopes in the Variation of Multi-Bases of the Antisymmetrized Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Myo Takayuki , Lyu Mengjiao , Zhao Qing , Isaka Masahiro , Wan Niu , Takemoto Hiroki , Horiuchi Hisashi , Doté Akinobu
Published: December 2024

We investigate the cluster configurations in Li isotopes, which are described in the optimization of the multi-Slater determinants of the antisymmetrized molecular dynamics. Each Slater determinant in the superposition is determined simultaneously in the variation of the total energy. The configurations of the excited states are obtained by imposing the orthogonal condition onto the ground-state configurations. In Li isotopes, various cluster configurations are confirmed and are related to the thresholds of the corresponding cluster emissions. For $^5$Li, we predict the $^3$He+$d$ clustering in the excited state as well as the mirror state of $^5$He with $^3$H+$d$. For $^{6-9}$Li, various combinations of the clusters are obtained in the ground and excited states, and the superposition of these basis states reproduces the observed energy spectra. For $^9$Li, we predict the linear-chain states consisting of various cluster configurations at excitation energy levels of 10–13 MeV.
Theory-Informed Development of a Multicomponent Intervention to Implement Clinical Practice Guideline Recommendations in the Management of Shoulder Pain
Authors: Lowry Véronique , Desmeules François , Lavigne Patrick , Décary Simon , Tousignant-Laflamme Yannick , Martel Marylie , Roy Jean-Sébastien , Perreault Kadija , Lefebvre Marie-Claude , Kilpatrick Kelley , Hudon Anne , Zidarov Diana
Published: December 2024

Objective

Suboptimal primary health care management of shoulder pain has been reported in previous studies. Implementing clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) recommendations using a theoretical approach is recommended to improve shoulder pain management. This study aims to identify determinants of implementing recommendations from shoulder CPGs to help develop an intervention based on the identified determinants.

Methods

Family physicians and physical therapists managing patients with shoulder pain in primary care were invited to participate in a qualitative study to identify determinants to implementing recommendations from shoulder CPGs. The Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) was used to inform the creation of the semi-structured interview guide and for deductive coding of transcriptions. The determinants were mapped to intervention functions and behavior change techniques (BCT) using the Behavior Change Wheel method and strategies for implementing CPGs recommendations were identified.

Results

Interviews were conducted with 16 family physicians and 19 physical therapists. We identified 12 barriers and 6 facilitators within 7 TDF domains: knowledge, skills, beliefs about capabilities, beliefs about consequences, intentions, environmental context and resources, and social influence. We identified 6 intervention functions and 12 BCT addressing the relevant determinants. The 11 implementation strategies identified include the development and distribution of educational material, interactive educational outreach visits, and audit and feedback. Other components to consider are the identification and preparation of champions in primary care clinical settings, revision of professional roles, and creation of interdisciplinary clinical teams.

Conclusions

The identification of barriers and facilitators to implementing recommendations from shoulder CPGs allowed us to select implementation strategies at individual and organizational levels.

Impact

The implementation strategies will be adapted to specific primary care contexts in consultation with stakeholders and operationalized into a multicomponent implementation intervention. Implementing the intervention has the potential to improve shoulder pain management in primary care and facilitate the use of evidence-based recommendations from CPGs.
On the scanning map and the space of smooth complex projective hypersurfaces
Authors: Alonso Ángel Javier , Cantero-Morán Federico
Published: December 2024

The space of degree d smooth projective hypersurfaces of $\mathbb{C}P^n$ admits a scanning map to a certain space of sections. We compute a rational homotopy model of the action by conjugation of the group $U(n+1)$ on this space of sections, from which we deduce that the scanning map induces a monomorphism on cohomology when d > 2. Our main technique is the rational homotopy theory of Sullivan and, more specifically, a Sullivan model for the action by conjugation of a connected topological group on a space of sections.
A deep dive into monogenic lupus: insights on DNASE1L3 mutation
Authors: Abdwani Reem , Mal Mahadev Jetho , Al Masroori Eman , Jaju Sanjay , Al Abrawi Safiya
Published: December 2024

Objective

In this study, we aim to describe the largest cohort of monogenic lupus caused by DNASE1L3 yet reported, describing its phenotypic characteristics and outcomes.

Methods

We performed a multicentre retrospective chart review for enrolled patients with childhood-onset SLE (cSLE) followed in paediatric rheumatology tertiary centers in the Sultanate of Oman. We included cSLE patients with genetically confirmed DNASE1L3 mutation. The demographic, clinical and laboratory data of the monogenic lupus cohort was compared with sporadic cSLE cohort.

Results

We recruited 33 patients from 15 families with confirmed homozygous DNASE1L3 mutation. The median age of disease onset was 4 years, with 18 (55%) of the cohort presenting before the age of 5 years. There was a higher proportion of boys 20 (61%) affected. A significant proportion of cohort had hypocomplementemic urticarial vasculitis (HUV) symptoms including arthritis (82%), urticarial vasculitis (79%), fever (49%), abdominal pain (36%) and conjunctivitis (25%). Compared with the sporadic cohort, there was higher frequency of nephritis (60%) and pulmonary haemorrhage (15%). SLE disease activity index score on presentation was 13.3 ± 3.64 (s.d.), while disease damage was identified in n = 14 (42%) of patients with mean damage index score of 2.14 ± 1.12 (s.d.). Despite treatment, a significant proportion continued to display HUV symptoms that were refractory to standard treatment.

Conclusion

Given the early onset, aggressive nature and refractory natures of cSLE caused by DNASE1L3 mutation, further research aimed at targeted therapies that could restore the function of DNASE1L3 or compensate for its deficiency is warranted.
Central banks, monetary stability, and the varieties of capital control liberalization
Authors: Rademacher Inga
Published: December 2024

This article explores the differential liberalization of capital controls in advanced market economies. It shows that although finance-led economies abolished controls by the 1980s, export-led economies retained significant restrictions into the 1990s, contributing to differential financial market development. A historical comparison of Germany and the UK (1961–1985) finds that differential control use resulted from central bankers’ varying expectations of controls’ monetary functions in the domestic economic context. As capital became mobile in the 1960s, sudden capital in- and outflows jeopardized price and currency stability. In the German context of macroeconomic stability, controls effectively limited capital inflows and arrested destabilizing inflationary and exchange rate pressures. However, in the British context of macroeconomic instability and capital outflows, controls could not sufficiently restore stability: as loose fiscal and monetary choices persisted, monetary conditions deteriorated. Thus, Bank of England officials became fervent advocates for control liberalization to enforce restrictive fiscal and monetary choices via market pressures.
Impacts of birth season and production system on gastrointestinal parasitism and growth in Katahdin lambs
Authors: Murphy Thomas W , Burke Joan M , Hess Andrew S , Miller James E , Wood Erin L , Acharya Mohan
Published: December 2024

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection adversely affects the performance and well-being of forage-based sheep throughout the world. The study objectives were to estimate longitudinal differences between birth seasons and production systems for lamb postweaning growth and indicators of GIN infection. Data were collected on Katahdin lambs within a single flock from 2006 to 2022. Lambs were born in either the winter or fall and reared in conventional or certified organic production systems. Four sub-flocks were defined as the combination of birth season and production system (winter-conventional = W-C, n = 1766; winter-organic = W-O, n = 190; fall-conventional = F-C, n = 846; and fall-organic = F-O, n = 189). All lambs were naturally infected with GIN from previously grazed pastures, weaned at approximately 60 d of age, and remained on pasture throughout the postweaning phase. At approximately 90, 120, and 150 d of age lamb body weight (BW) was recorded, and fecal egg count and blood packed cell volume (PCV) were quantified. Fecal egg count was log-transformed (LFEC) prior to analyses. Traits were initially analyzed within collection timepoint to compare all 4 sub-flocks. Final BW at 150 d and LFEC and PCV throughout the postweaning phase were similar between conventional and organic lambs born in the same season. Repeated measures models were then used to analyze records from W-C and F-C lambs over time. The collection timepoint × deworming treatment × sub-flock interaction effect was significant for all traits (P < 0.01). Within lambs that did not require deworming, no difference in BW between birth seasons was observed. However, LFEC trends for untreated F-C and W-C lambs were nearly exact opposite of one another, being greater for F-C at 90 d, (P < 0.01) not different at 120 d, and greater for W-C at 150 d (P < 0.01). Additionally, PCV of untreated F-C lambs was lower at 90 d but greater at 120 and 150 d than untreated W-C lambs (P ≤ 0.04). This was the first study conducted in the U.S. to compare longitudinal performance between lambs born in different seasons and reared in different production systems. Under the conditions of this study, organically managed lambs had similar performance to their conventionally managed counterparts. However, large differences in GIN infection risk over time existed between birth seasons and deworming regimens which have important implications for producer management decisions and genetic improvement programs.
What Does Marijuana Do to the Brain and Behavior?
Authors: Glasner Suzette
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the impact of marijuana on
the brain and behavior. Health risks and complications associated with marijuana use
become more likely with heavy and frequent use, such as harmful effects on the brain and
behavior, and the reversal of its beneficial effects of use. In the long term, the use
of marijuana is often correlated with certain mental health problems, including
depression, anxiety, and psychosis. The chapter shares a narrative of a person
struggling with cannabis use disorder. It also looks into cognitive behavioral therapy,
contingency management, and motivational enhancement therapy as best treatment outcomes
for cannabis use disorder.
What Psychotherapies Are Effective for Addiction?
Authors: Glasner Suzette
Published: December 2024

This chapter considers the effectiveness of
psychotherapies for treating addiction. It cites the high likelihood of addiction
specialists to recommend psychotherapy as a central part of the treatment plan to help
change addictive behaviors. The main reason to seek psychotherapy is to learn how to
manage one’s addiction and the problems in their personal and professional life that are
related to it. Additionally, therapy aims to address personal issues that perhaps were
troubling prior to developing the addiction. The chapter provides pointers on how to
find the right therapist who thoroughly understands the illness of addiction, and the
right therapy, such as motivational therapies and cognitive behavioral therapy
(CBT).
Marine Pollution
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

This book provides thorough and accessible coverage of the topic in a
Q&A format. Starting with a chapter giving background information about the marine environment, the
following chapters are each devoted to a particular type of pollution: nutrients and harmful algal
blooms, metals, oil, pesticides and industrial organic chemicals, litter (mostly plastic),
microplastics, emerging concerns (pharmaceuticals, flame retardants, PFAS, noise and light pollution),
bioaccumulation and biomagnification, climate change and ocean acidification, biological pollution
(including invasive species), and a final chapter on regulating and reducing pollution. Each of the
chapters on a particular type of pollution includes questions about where the pollutants come from, what
happens to them in the ocean, what effects they may have on marine organisms, and what can be done about
it (including clean-ups and prevention through actions of individuals and through laws and regulations).
It is written in an accessible form for the interested general public, environmentalists, naturalists,
beach-goers, snorkelers and divers, and students.
Introduction to the Marine Environment and Pollution
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses the ocean ecosystem, its food
webs, and the major sources of pollution entering the ocean. It covers pollution from objects
that are already in the water, from the atmosphere, and the various ways that land-based
materials enter the coastal and estuarine waters. It discusses the fate of pollutants—what
happens to them once in the water. It then describes the ways in which pollutants get into
animals and plants and what effects they may have, including a discussion of toxicity. The
chapter also includes introductory material about laws that regulate pollution.
An Island in Crisis, 2017–23
Authors: Duany Jorge
Published: December 2024

How did Hurricanes Irma and
Maria affect Puerto Rico?

Two major hurricanes struck the Island in September 2017, wreaking havoc in a country already ravaged by economic misfortunes. On September 20, when Hurricane Maria made landfall on the Island, Puerto Rico suffered its...
Cracking etymological enigmas: unravelling the Greek and Latin languages’ contributions in marine taxa nomenclature
Authors: Kazanidis Georgios
Published: December 2024

Etymology is a key component in zoological nomenclature, often carrying key information for an organism. Greek and Latin languages have been used for centuries in synthesizing zoological names. However, there are surprisingly few studies about each language’s contribution, which is crucial for avoiding misunderstandings around names’ meaning and origin. This study examined the publications that described 1328 valid Echinodermata genera and presents results for 425 genera where etymology was provided by the authors. The analysis showed that 63.8% of genera names were composed exclusively of Greek elements, 28.0% were hybrid, 6.1% ‘other’, and 2.1% Latin. Language elements used in the formation of names were Greek (68.1%), ‘other’ (17.2%), or Latin (14.7%). The contribution of the Greek elements decreased after 1960, while the presence of hybrid increased. A decrease in the contribution of morphological elements was also observed after 1960, accompanied by an increased use of scientists’ surnames. Etymological analysis has unravelled and addressed long-lasting misconceptions about commonly used terminology. The number of studies where etymology is provided increased after 1960; this practice needs to be sustained as etymological transparency advances zoological knowledge and minimizes the risk for the development of misleading concepts in zoological nomenclature.
Recurrent evolution of breathing microtunnel system in terrestrial operculate snails (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea)
Authors: Páll-Gergely Barna , Ruthensteiner Bernhard , Harl Josef , Magonyi Nóra M , Asami Takahiro , Krizsik Virág , Schwaha Thomas , Fehér Zoltán
Published: December 2024

The Cyclophoroidea are a group of land snails possessing an operculum that seals the aperture when the snail withdraws its body into the shell. Several groups have developed snorkel-like tubes, which are open at their outer ends, for gas exchange when the operculum closes the aperture. The tube of the cyclophorid subfamily Alycaeinae is, however, closed at its outer end. Recent investigations revealed that the tube of Alycaeinae, which starts to develop in subadults, is connected to several long microtunnels that run perpendicular to the tube and open near the umbilicus. We examined snails similar to Alycaeinae and discovered three types of gas-exchange systems that differ from the system in Alycaeinae. In Laotia, the microtunnels run to separate chambers, whereas in Platyrhaphe the microtunnels run to an internal tube. In both genera, the breathing device is already present in juveniles. Lastly, in Boucardicus there is no tube, but the microtunnels reach the common opening individually. Our molecular phylogeny, based on sequence data from the 28S, H3 and COI genes indicates that the microtunnel systems of these four groups have evolved independently. Based on these findings, three new subfamilies are proposed: Boucardicinae Páll-Gergely subfam. nov. (Hainesiidae), Laotiinae Páll-Gergely subfam. nov. (Diplommatinidae), and Platyrhaphidinae Páll-Gergely subfam. nov. (Cyclophoridae).