bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Critical Roles of Phosphatidylethanolamine‐Binding Proteins in Legumes
Authors: Su Tong , Wu Yichun , Fang Chao , Liu Baohui , Lu Sijia , Kong Fanjiang , Liu Huan
Published: October 2024

Legumes, characterized by their ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen‐fixing bacteria, play crucial roles in agriculture, ecology and human nutrition. Phosphatidylethanolamine‐binding proteins (PEBPs) are the key genetic players that contribute to the diverse biological functions of legumes. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of important roles of PEBP genes in legumes, including flowering, inflorescence architecture, seed development and nodulation. We also delve into PEBP regulatory mechanisms and effects on plant growth, development, and adaptation to the environment. Furthermore, we highlight their potential biotechnological applications for crop improvement and promoting sustainable agriculture. This review emphasizes the multifaceted roles of PEBP genes, shedding light on their significance in legume biology and their potential for sustainable productive farming.
Herbivory can reduce perennial grass seedling survival, but temperature and cumulative precipitation are more important predictors in the first growing season
Authors: Denton Elsie M. , Sheley Roger L.
Published: October 2024

Successful establishment of desired species during restoration is challenging in drylands. Much research has focused on the importance of the critical life stages such as germination and emergence, but factors influencing survival through the seedling stages of perennial grasses may be equally important. We asked whether seedling defoliation by insects and/or mammals could cause restoration failure. We quantified the degree of defoliation on seedlings of common perennial grass species at 46 restoration sites throughout Oregon, Idaho, and Nevada, and calculated survival probabilities during the first growing season after planting. At each site, we excluded small mammals and insects for 6 weeks and compared defoliation and survival probabilities with seedlings in controls without exclusions. Seedlings were classified as either: large perennial grasses (LPG), primarily from the Triticeae tribe, or Bluegrasses (Poa spp.). Defoliation of LPG reduced seedling survival, but the effect was small compared to the influence of meteorological variables, such as precipitation and temperature. Based on bite patterns, most defoliation resulted from insects. Only a small percentage of vegetation was removed (36% of individuals were defoliated, mean = 13.2% vegetation removal). Defoliation of bluegrasses was less common than that of LPG seedlings, with only 16% experiencing defoliation, primarily from insects (mean = 4.3% vegetation removal). Some defoliation did occur within the exclusion treatments, but the effect of defoliation on seedling survival did not appear to interact with treatment. Based on the results of this study, seedling herbivory is unlikely to be a major factor in restoration failure in the Northern Great Basin.
Immunomodulatory effect of mesenchymal stem cells‐derived extracellular vesicles to modulate the regulatory T cells and Th1/Th2 imbalance in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with allergic rhinitis
Authors: Wang Zhao , Shahzad Khawar Ali , Li Xuran , Cai Boyu , Xu Maoxiang , Li Jiaojiao , Tan Fei
Published: October 2024

Mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles (MSC‐EVs) have shown promising immunomodulatory capabilities for a variety of clinical conditions. However, the potential regulatory mechanisms of MSC‐EVs in allergic rhinitis (AR) remain unexplored. The present study was designed to investigate the immunomodulatory effect of MSC‐EVs in patients with AR. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from AR patients. The number of peripheral CD4+Foxp3+IL‐17+, CD4+Foxp3+IL‐17− and CD4+Foxp3−IL‐17+ T cells in healthy controls and AR patients were evaluated using flow cytometry. Therapeutic effect of MSC‐EVs was determined by detecting IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IL‐17 and IL‐10 cytokines in supernatant by ELISA and flow cytometry. The mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was calculated in PBMCs for IL‐10, IL‐17 and TGF‐β on T cells after MSC‐EVs treatment. Bioinformatic analysis of microRNA was performed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. CD4+Foxp3+IL‐17+ T cells expression in PBMCs was higher in the AR group and the balance of Treg/Th17 was tilted towards Th17 cells. Supernatant from AR patients revealed that MSC‐EVs treatment upregulated IL‐10 and IFN‐γ, and downregulated IL‐4 and IL‐17. EVs treatment effectively re‐established Th1(CD4+IFN‐γ+cells)/Th2(CD4+IL‐4+cells) balance, reduced CD4+IL‐17+ and increased CD4+IL‐10+ and CD4+TGF‐β+ cells. The MFI of IL‐10 and TGF‐β in CD4+CD25+CD127− T cells were higher, whereas lower levels of IL‐17 were observed. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that the TGF‐β, Wnt signalling pathways and STAT5 transcription factor might mechanistically support the immunomodulatory effect of MSC‐EVs. This study presents the immunomodulatory effect of MSC‐EVs in PBMCs from AR patients. The results provide a new therapeutic strategy for AR.
Lacewing‐specific Universal Single Copy Orthologs designed towards resolution of backbone phylogeny of Neuropterida
Authors: Lai Yan , Du Shiyu , Li Hongyu , Zheng Yuchen , Ardila‐Camacho Adrian , Aspöck Ulrike , Aspöck Horst , Yang Ding , Zhang Feng , Liu Xingyue
Published: October 2024

Universal Single Copy Orthologs (USCOs), as a set of markers of nearly universal single‐copy genes, show a superiority in phylogenomic inference. Here, we developed a Benchmarking Universal Single Copy Orthologs (BUSCOs) dataset, neuropterida_odb10, tailored for Neuropterida, based on high‐quality genome assemblies and transcriptome data, comprising 5438 BUSCOs. A range of 1524–5328 complete and single‐copy USCOs could be captured from the genome assemblies and transcriptomes of 104 species of Neuropterida. The reconstruction of a higher‐level phylogeny of Neuropterida based on a comprehensive sampling and refined genomic data in reference to neuropterida_odb10 validates the efficiency of this BUSCO dataset for phylogenomic inference. We recovered Psychopsidae as the sister group to Ithonidae, and corroborated the sister group relationship between Sisyridae and Nevrorthidae within Osmyloidea and the sister group relationship between Chrysopidae and Mantispoidea. Furthermore, our findings highlight that focusing on alignments with a higher presence of parsimony‐informative sites, rather than on the total number of alignments, can diminish errors in gene tree estimation, a process notably vulnerable to error when using multispecies coalescent methods. The neuropterida_odb10 BUSCO reference dataset holds promise for phylogenetic studies at various hierarchical levels, as well as for comparative genomics and the exploration of species diversity within Neuropterida.
Environmental Zoning of the Camaquã State Park – Brazil
Authors: De Oliveira Lopes Ândrea Lenise , Trentin Gracieli , Heck Simon Adriano Luís
Published: October 2024

Brazil is one of the most megadiverse countries in the world and protected areas are the key to preserving environmental systems that remain from historical threats, such as urbanization, mining, planting of exotic species, and the expansion of agricultural activities like farming and livestock. Environmental zoning is the main tool for the management of protected areas as it is a useful option to mitigate conflicts and a key prescriptive tool for protected areas administration. This paper provides an environmental zoning of the Camaquã State Park (CSP), Brazil. The methodological guideline of the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources was used with adaptations for the study area. It comprises: (i) the analysis of land use/cover changes (supporting land cover conservation criteria); (ii) the analysis of the geomorphological changes (supporting environmental variability criteria); and (iii) the identification and delimitation of homogeneous units for environmental zoning from the combination of land use/cover and geomorphological spatiotemporal data. This assessment was performed by mapping land use/cover and geomorphological changes in the study area in 1964 and 2012 scenarios. Results show that land covers have decreased 3.2%, while land uses had an increase of 12.8%. Irrigated rice represents the main vector of occupation and geomorphological changes. Anthropogenic landforms have had an increase of 189% and served as indicators for the delimitation of impacted areas. Five environmental zones were identified in the CSP, however, two occupy more than 70% of the study area: Intangible zone (40%) and recovery zone (34%). The zoning presented can only be applied in its entirety after land regularizing in the protected area.
An Examination of the Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Concussions in Texas High School and Junior High Coaches
Authors: Jack Melissa L. , Sumrall Keilea , Yonker Joshua C. , Soto Arthur , Mathur Sunil , Podell Kenneth
Published: October 2024

Every state in the United States mandates concussion education annually or biennially for those involved in organized youth sports to improve awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward concussions. The purpose of this study was to examine Texas high school and junior high school coaches’ knowledge of and attitudes toward concussions using the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey—Coaches Version. Among all analyzed participants, the mean overall concussion knowledge index (Concussion Knowledge Index = 0–25) was 21 (SD = 1.79), while the overall concussion attitude index (Concussion Attitude Index  = 15–75) was 63 (SD = 5.69). No significant differences for knowledge or attitude were found between gender, coaching level, sport type, geographical location, or school size (all p > .10). Mandatory concussion education has resulted in high levels of knowledge about and favorable attitudes toward concussions in Texas junior high school and high school coaches, with similar findings to other research in this area.
Effectiveness of FIFA 11+ Injury Prevention Programs in Reducing Head and Neck Injuries, Including Concussion, Among Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Al Attar Wesam Saleh A. , Majrashi Ali , Bizzini Mario
Published: October 2024

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) 11+ and 11+ Kids injury prevention programs have shown success in reducing overall injury risk in soccer players, yet their specific impact on head and neck injuries remains inadequately explored. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of FIFA 11+ and 11+ Kids injury prevention programs in reducing the incidence of head and neck injuries among soccer players. Methods: Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, 2 investigators independently conducted searches in databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and PEDro) using keywords like “FIFA 11+,” “football,” “soccer,” and “injury prevention.” Only randomized controlled trials assessing FIFA 11+ programs in soccer players were included. Data analysis used the random effects model with RevMan Meta-Analysis software (version 5). Results: Among 397 studies, 4 met inclusion criteria. Pooled results from 7109 players and 532,341 exposure hours indicated a significant 40% reduction in head and neck injuries per 1000 hours of exposure in the intervention group compared to the control group (injury risk ratio 0.60, 95% CI, 0.41–0.88). Conclusion: Implementing FIFA 11+ injury prevention programs significantly reduces the risk of head and neck injuries in soccer players, offering a compelling alternative to traditional warm-ups. This study contributes valuable evidence for optimizing injury prevention strategies in soccer training regimens.
A natural killer cell mimic against intracellular pathogen infections
Authors: Ge Min , Ruan Zesong , Zhu Ya-Xuan , Wu Wencheng , Yang Chuang , Lin Han , Shi Jianlin
Published: October 2024

In the competition between the pathogen infection and the host defense, infectious microorganisms may enter the host cells by evading host defense mechanisms and use the intracellular biomolecules as replication nutrient. Among them, intracellular
Staphylococcus aureus
relies on the host cells to protect itself from the attacks by antibiotics or immune system to achieve long-term colonization in the host, and the consequent clinical therapeutic failures and relapses after antibiotic treatment. Here, we demonstrate that intracellular
S. aureus
surviving well even in the presence of vancomycin can be effectively eliminated using an emerging cell-mimicking therapeutic strategy. These cell mimics with natural killer cell–like activity (NKMs) are composed of a redox-responsive degradable carrier, and perforin and granzyme B within the carrier. NKMs perform far more effectivly than clinical antibiotics in treating intracellular bacterial infections, providing a direct evidence of the NK cell–mimicking immune mechanism in the treatment of intracellular
S. aureus
.
Quantum sensing of acceleration and rotation by interfering magnetically launched atoms
Authors: Salducci Clément , Bidel Yannick , Cadoret Malo , Darmon Sarah , Zahzam Nassim , Bonnin Alexis , Schwartz Sylvain , Blanchard Cédric , Bresson Alexandre
Published: October 2024

Accurate and stable measurement of inertial quantities is essential in geophysics, geodesy, fundamental physics, and inertial navigation. Here, we present an architecture for a compact cold-atom accelerometer-gyroscope based on a magnetically launched atom interferometer. Characterizing the launching technique, we demonstrate 700–parts per million gyroscope scale factor stability over 1 day, while acceleration and rotation rate bias stabilities of 7 × 10
−7
meters per second squared and 4 × 10
−7
radians per second are reached after 2 days of integration of the cold-atom sensor. Hybridizing it with a classical accelerometer and gyroscope, we correct their drift and bias to achieve respective 100-fold and 3-fold increase on the stability of the hybridized sensor compared to the classical ones. Compared to a state-of-the-art atomic gyroscope, the simplicity and scalability of our launching technique make this architecture easily extendable to a compact full six-axis inertial measurement unit, providing a pathway toward autonomous positioning and orientation using cold-atom sensors.
Robust hybrid diffusion control for long-term scalable frost prevention
Authors: Machado Christian , Stern Benjamin , Huang Haiyue , Meem Asma Ul Hosna , Huang Jiaxing , Park Kyoo-Chul Kenneth
Published: October 2024

Antifrosting surfaces are critical to the efficient and safe operation of infrastructure in cold and humid environments where deposition of frost (porous ice) is thermodynamically inevitable. Such infrastructure can include above-ground power cables and outdoor heat pumps. Here, we introduce a hybrid surface design that passively controls the diffusion of water vapor over a surface to sustain flat frost-free regions for long periods of time. We report more than 150 hours (~1 week) of frost prevention for a single hybrid unit cell, which is three orders of magnitude longer than reported frosting onset for other state-of-the-art techniques. We then demonstrate the potential for large-area frost prevention by scalable tessellation of unit cells and an intrinsic durability to scratches/cracks and physical contamination.
Augmented dexterity: How robots can enhance human surgical skills
Authors: Goldberg Ken , Guthart Gary
Published: October 2024

Advances in AI and robotics have the potential to enhance the dexterity of human surgeons.
Socioeconomic inequality in postnatal care utilisation among reproductive age women in sub-Saharan African countries with high maternal mortality: a decomposition analysis
Authors: Fetene Samrawit Mihret , Fentie Elsa Awoke , Shewarega Ever Siyoum , Kidie Atitegeb Abera
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess the socioeconomic inequality in postnatal care (PNC) utilisation and its contributors among women in 14 sub-Saharan African countries with high maternal mortality.

Design

Community-based cross-sectional study using Demographic Health Survey

Setting

Africa countries with the highest maternal mortality ratio (14 countries)

Participants

All women who had given birth within 2 years prior to the survey (n=64 912)

Primary outcomes

Postnatal care utilisation

Results

The percentage of women who had PNC utilisation was lowest in Ethiopia (23.4%: 95% CI: 22.1%, 24.7%) and highest in The Gambia (91.5%: 95% CI: 90.6%, 92.4%). There was statistically significant pro-rich inequality in the PNC utilisation in all countries except Liberia, meaning PNC utilisation was disproportionately concentrated among women from wealthier households. The weighted Erreygers Normalized Concentration Index (ECI) ranged from 0.0398 in The Gambia to 0.476 in Nigeria; the second-highest inequality was in Cameroon (0.382), followed by Guinea (0.344). The decomposition analysis revealed that the wealth index was the largest contributor to inequality in PNC utilisation in seven countries: Benin, Burundi, The Gambia, Guinea, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania. In contrast, educational status emerged as the primary contibutor in Cameroon and Zimbabwe, media exposure in Mali and Mauritania, and distance to healthcare facilities in Ethiopia. However, in Liberia, the weighted ECI of 0.0012 with a p value of 0.96 indicate that there is no significant socioeconomic inequality in PNC utilisation, suggesting that the distribution of PNC utilisation is almost equal across different socioeconomic groups.

Conclusion

Our study revealed a pro-rich inequality in PNC utilisation across all included sub-Saharan African countries with high maternal mortality, except Liberia. This implies that PNC utilisation disproportionately favours the wealthy. Therefore, financially better-off women are more likely to utilise PNC services compared to those who are poor. Addressing the identified contributors of socioeconomic inequalities in PNC utilisation in each country remains crucial for achieving equity in PNC utilisation.
Breadth and visibility of children’s lower limb chronic musculoskeletal pain: a scoping review
Authors: Ilhan Emre , Davies Luke , Pacey Verity , Smith Mitchell , Munro Jane , Munns Craig , Sturgiss Elizabeth , Williams Nicole , Tofts Louise , Locke Vance , Haines Terry , Brennan Sue E , Maloney Stephen , Sarkies Mitchell N , Clavisi Ornella , Miles Dan , Nissen Lisa , Williams Cylie
Published: October 2024

Objective

To identify the types of conditions reported in peer-reviewed literature that result in chronic musculoskeletal lower limb pain in children and adolescents and explore the alignment of these conditions with the chronic pain reporting codes indexed in the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11).

Design

This scoping review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Data sources

Five electronic databases were searched (Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library).

Eligibility criteria

Articles involving children and adolescents under 18 years and reporting on chronic musculoskeletal pain of the lower limb were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

We assigned an ICD-11 code to each condition based on details reported in the study. We recorded whether any of the presenting conditions were linked to an ICD-11 chronic pain manifestation code.

Results

From 12 343 records, 418 papers were included. There were 124 unique conditions associated with chronic lower limb pain, the most commonly reported being chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain (24 studies) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (26 studies). Only 11.1% of presenting conditions were linked to an ICD-11 chronic pain manifestation code.

Conclusion

Most presenting conditions associated with chronic pain in the lower limb do not have a chronic pain manifestation code in the new global standard for recording health information. This means chronic pain associated with common lower limb conditions may remain invisible in global statistics.
High-grade cervical disease and cervical cancer in women aged 50 years and older compared with younger women: examining prevalence by HIV status in two large prospective cohorts in Botswana
Authors: Luckett Rebecca , Zhang Bessie X , Gompers Annika , George Jessica , Modest Anna , Bazzett-Matabele Lisa , Vuylsteke Peter , Kula Maduke , Monare Barati , Botha Matthys H , Shapiro Roger L , Ramogola-Masire Doreen , Grover Surbhi
Published: October 2024

Objectives

International guidelines recommend cervical screening cessation at age 50 following two consecutive negative screens. However, many women aged 50 and older in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) have not had prior opportunity to screen. We examine the prevalence of cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer stage in Botswana women aged 50+ compared with 30–49, stratified by HIV status.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from two prospective cohort studies.

Setting

The screening cohort was recruited at health facilities in South East District. The cancer cohort was recruited from the primary public tertiary referral hospital and a private hospital in Gaborone, Botswana.

Participants

The screening cohort included 2570 women aged 30 and older recruited from February 2021 to August 2022. Screening eligibility included anyone with a cervix and without a prior history of cervical cancer. The cancer cohort included 1520 patients diagnosed with cervical cancer who sought care at the facilities where recruitment took place from January 2015 to December 2022.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The prevalence of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)2+ and cancer stage at diagnosis was compared across age groups, stratified by HIV status. Prevalence ratios were calculated for the association between age and CIN2+/CIN3+via log-binomial regression.

Results

The prevalence of CIN2+ was similar between 30–49 years old and 50+, both among women with HIV (WWH, 15.9% and 19.3%, respectively) and without HIV (13.3% and 10.4%, respectively). Similar findings were found when CIN3+ was used as the outcome. There were no statistically significant differences in prevalence ratios (PRs) across age groups for CIN2+ (adjusted PR (aPR) WWH 1.1 (95% CI 0.80 to 1.6); aPR HIV− 0.78 (95% CI 0.45 to 1.4) nor CIN3+ (aPR WWH 1.1 (95% CI 0.70 to 1.6); aPR HIV− 0.81 (95% CI 0.40 to 1.7)). Nearly half of cervical cancer diagnoses were made in women 50+; three-quarters of cases in women without HIV were diagnosed at 50+ years.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the prevalence of high-grade cervical dysplasia and cervical cancer remains high beyond age 50 in both women with and without HIV in an LMIC context with high HIV prevalence. Screening women 50+ will allow treatment for cervical dysplasia and may provide early diagnosis of curable cervical cancer. These findings support the rapid introduction of high-performance cervical screening to increase access for women 50+.

Trial registration number

NCT04242823.
Possible Worlds Theory: How the Imagination Transcends and Recreates Reality
Authors: Keltner Dacher , Stamkou Eftychia
Published: October 2024

The imagination is central to human social life but undervalued worldwide and underexplored in psychology. Here, we offer Possible Worlds Theory as a synthetic theory of the imagination. We first define the imagination, mapping the mental states it touches, from dreams and hallucinations to satire and fiction. The conditions that prompt people to imagine range from trauma to physical and social deprivation, and they challenge the sense of reality, stirring a need to create possible worlds. We theorize about four cognitive operations underlying the structure of the mental states of the imagination. We then show how people embody the imagination in social behaviors such as pretense and ritual, which give rise to experiences of a special class of feelings defined by their freedom from reality. We extend Possible Worlds Theory to four domains—play, spirituality, morality, and art—and show how in flights of the imagination people create new social realities shared with others.
Operando Tracking of Transport Properties in Na3V2(PO4)2F3 and LiFePO4 Battery Electrodes by In-Plane Measurements
Authors: Perju Audrey , Mondal Brinti , Maurel Victor , Rabuel François , Morcrette Mathieu , Taberna Pierre-Louis , Simon Patrice
Published: October 2024

The development of batteries has become a major challenge and requires new operando techniques for tracking reaction kinetics in battery electrodes during operation. Taking Na3V2(PO4)2F3 and LiFePO4 as examples of positive electrode materials, the present work deals with the design of an operando technique to measure the ionic and electronic transport properties of battery electrodes during polarization. In the case of LiFePO4, large electronic resistance changes were revealed when crossing the solid-solution domains. Such resistance changes are consistent with thermodynamic models proposing the existence of a diffuse phase boundary between Li-poor and Li-rich domains, as a result of the non-linear variation of the chemical potential of the LFP particles, which in turn leads to restricted lithium diffusion. Concerning Na3V2(PO4)2F3, the important variations of electronic resistance measured were correlated with different phase changes and superstructures formed during the insertion-disinsertion of Na+ ions, as well as the polarization and entropy heat variations. These results are fully consistent with a substantial correlation of structural changes with transport properties and reaction kinetics, and thus, performances. More generally, this technique shows great promise as a tool to aid in designing battery electrodes with improved ionic and electronic percolations.
NPD1 Relieves Neuropathic Pain and Accelerates the Recovery of Motor Function After Peripheral Nerve Injury
Authors: Tian Yu , Liu YanFang , Liu Chang , Huang SaiSai
Published: October 2024

The incidence of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) in China is continuously increasing. With an inability to function due to sensory and motor abnormalities, patients with PNI suffer from neuropathic pain and subsequent lesions. Presently, effective treatments for PNI are limited. To determine the role of neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1) in PNI, a sciatic nerve crush injury model was developed to investigate the impact of NPD1 on sensory and motor function recovery following nerve injury. The results demonstrated that NPD1 administered at different time points might reduce mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia caused by PNI, and its analgesic effect was not tolerated. Immunohistochemistry analyses revealed that administering NPD1 to PNI mice decreased the spinal microglia and astrocyte activation and decreased the inflammatory factor expression in the spinal dorsal horn. Furthermore, NPD1 can inhibit the invasion of IBA‐1+ macrophages in dorsal root ganglions generated by nerve injury. Meanwhile, it can help rehabilitate motor and neuromuscular functions following PNI. The results indicate that NPD1 may be involved in the sensory and motor function recovery following PNI.
Assessing the Utility of the DAPT Score and PRECISE‐DAPT Score in Determining the Appropriateness of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction/Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Hussain M. A. , Chaudhary Shyam Chand , Bharadwaj Akriti , Sawalani K. K. , Pradhan Akshyaya , Sethi Rishi
Published: October 2024

Background: Utilizing the two available prediction models, i.e., the dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) score and predicting bleeding complication in patients undergoing stent implantation and subsequent dual antiplatelet therapy (PRECISE‐DAPT) score, we aimed to determine the appropriateness of the DAPT in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 235 patients of AMI and for all the patients and thorough information regarding history, risk factors, and medications were collected. Both DAPT and PRECISE‐DAPT scores were calculated. The patients were divided by their recommended cutoffs and the appropriateness of the duration of the recommended DAPT was measured based on the observed scores. Bleeding academic research consortium (BARC) classification was used to define the bleeding events. In the patients with DAPT score ≥ 2 and PRESICE‐DAPT < 25, the prolonged use of DAPT was recommended.

Results: Overall, 235 patients, predominantly male (78.7%), with baseline characteristics exhibiting high rate of smoking (31.1%), diabetes (35.3%), and hypertension (32.8%) were found. The widely prescribed DAPT combination was aspirin with clopidogrel (72.3% at discharge and 46% on current use). Among all the enrolled patients, 163 patients were on DAPT while 71 were on single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT). A significant association between DAPT and PRECISE‐DAPT scores was noted in terms of SAPT and DAPT. The appropriateness of DAPT was checked based on the scores, where 81% of the patients with DAPT ≥ 2 and 77.24% with PRECISE‐DAPT score < 25 were appropriately prescribed with DAPT. The primary reason for drug interruptions was self‐advised. The incidence of bleeding events was observed to be 7.23%, among which 5.1% had Type 1 bleeding according to BARC.

Conclusion: Both DAPT and PRECISE‐DAPT scores could be used to determine the appropriateness of the recommendations of DAPT in patients with AMI or undergoing PCI.
The Role of Ca2+/PI3K/Akt/eNOS/NO Pathway in Astragaloside IV–Induced Inhibition of Endothelial Inflammation Triggered by Angiotensin II
Authors: Zhang Shiyu , Li Shijie , Xie Shiyang , Cui Lin , Gao Yuan , Wang Youping
Published: October 2024

Inflammation induced by angiotensin II (Ang II) is a key event in the progression of numerous cardiovascular diseases. Astragaloside IV (AS‐IV), a glycoside extracted from Astragalus membranaceus Bunge, has been shown to inhibit Ang II–induced inflammatory responses in vivo. However, the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects are still unclear. This study investigated whether AS‐IV attenuates endothelial inflammation induced by Ang II via the activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/nitric oxide (NO) pathway. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured in the presence of AS‐IV with or without the specific inhibitor of NOS or Ca2+‐ and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt‐dependent cascade prior to Ang II exposure. Incubation of HUVECs with AS‐IV enhanced NO production and eNOSser1177 phosphorylation. These responses were abrogated by the inhibition of NOS or Ca2+‐ and PI3K/Akt‐dependent pathway. In addition, preincubation of HUVECs with AS‐IV inhibited Ang II–induced cytokine and chemokine production, adhesion molecule expression, monocyte adhesion, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation as evidenced by the attenuation of inhibitor of kappa B alpha phosphorylation and subsequent NF‐κB DNA binding. These effects of AS‐IV were abolished by the suppression of NOS or Ca2+‐ and PI3K/Akt‐dependent cascade. Our findings indicate that AS‐IV attenuates inflammatory responses triggered by Ang II possibly via the activation of Ca2+/PI3K/Akt/eNOS/NO pathway in endothelial cells.
Unveiling miRNA30b’s Role in Suppressing ADAM12 to Combat Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Yin Qing-hua , Hu Jian-bing , Zhou Qiang , Weng Jie , Shen Er-dong , Wen Fang , Liu Song-lian , Yin Lei-lan , Tong Ya-jun , Long Ling , Tang Ke-wei , Bai Si-te , Ou Lu-di
Published: October 2024

Background: Triple‐negative breast cancer, a subtype of breast cancer, is characterized by a poor prognosis. Recent studies have shown that miRNA30b acts as an oncogene and is vital for the proliferation of malignancies across various systems. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of miRNA30b on the proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities of breast cancer cells in vitro.

Methods: Triple‐negative breast cancer cell lines MDA‐MB‐231 were transiently transfected with miRNA30b inhibitor, mimic, or the negative control by Lipofectamine 2000. Successful transfection was confirmed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Functional assays, including CCK8, clone formation, scratch, and transwell assays, were conducted to evaluate the proliferation, invasion, and migration ability of MDA‐MB‐231 cells in each group. The target protein of miRNA30b was determined using an online prediction data website, and the dual‐luciferase assay confirmed whether there was a binding site between miRNA30b and ADAM12. The effect was further verified by Western blot analysis.

Results: MDA‐MB‐231 cells were transfected with miRNA30b inhibitor, mimic, and negative control. miRNA30b expression was downregulated in the cells. Relative to the negative control group, miRNA30b expression significantly increased in the mimic group and decreased in the miRNA30b inhibitor group, with the differences being statistically significant. The miRNA30b mimic group exhibited a significant increase in miRNA30b expression and a corresponding promotion of cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration. Conversely, the miRNA30b inhibitor group displayed significantly reduced miRNA30b expression and suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation, and migration abilities compared to the negative control cells. Bioinformatics software predicted ADAM12 as a potential target of miRNA30b. Dual‐luciferase assays confirmed the presence of a binding site between miRNA30b and ADAM12. Western blot analysis revealed that overexpression of miRNA30b downregulated ADAM12 expression in MDA‐MB‐231 cells.

Conclusions: miRNA30b could promote proliferation, migration, and invasion of TNBC cell lines MDA‐MB‐231. The effect of miRNA30b on triple‐negative breast cancer would be achieved partly at least through inhibiting the expression of ADAM12.
Effect of Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction and Drying Methods on Bioactive Compounds, Phenolic Composition, and Antioxidant Activity of Assam Tea Cultivar (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) Cultivated in Thailand
Authors: Warinhomhoun Sakan , Raiputta Jiraporn , Rangsee Paryn Na , Yang Chung S. , Chueamchaitrakun Piyaporn
Published: October 2024

Tea is a rich source of phytochemicals; their composition in tea extracts varies depending on the cultivar, climate, production region, and processing and handling processes. The method of extraction plays a crucial role in determining the biological effects of the bioactive compounds in tea leaves. However, reports on the catechin profiles and antioxidant activities of the extracts obtained from leaves at different stages of maturity are limited. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) and different drying methods, freeze drying (FD) and spray drying (SD), on the composition of bioactive compounds, phenolic composition, and antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from different part of leaves, top (TT), middle (ML), and mature (MT), of Assam tea cultivar (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) cultivated in Thailand (Thai Assam tea). High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis showed that the extracts obtained by UAE with FD from TT leaves (UAEFD‐TT) had the highest catechins (341.38 ± 0.11 mg/g extract) and caffeine (93.20 ± 0.36 mg CF/g extract) contents compared with those extracted from ML and MT using the same method as well those obtained by SD. The total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were the highest in UAEFD‐TT extracts (456.78 ± 4.31 mg GAE/g extract and 333.98 ± 0.83 mg QE/g extract, respectively). In addition, UAEFD‐TT exhibited the highest antioxidant activity; the IC50 values obtained by 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′‐azino‐bis (3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays were 1.31 ± 0.02 and 7.51 ± 0.03 μg/mL, respectively. In the ferric‐reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, the UAEFD‐TT extract demonstrated the highest antioxidant activity (324.54 ± 3.33 μM FeSO4/mg extract). These results suggest that extraction from TT using UAE followed by FD produced the highest amount of antioxidant compounds in Thai Assam tea extracts.
Performance, Stability Analysis, and Selection for New Yellow‐Fleshed Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam.) in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Mustamu Yohanis Amos , Ustari Debby , Wicaksono Arif Affan , Concibido Vergel , Suganda Tarkus , Karuniawan Agung
Published: October 2024

Genotype–environment interaction (GEI) information is essential in plant breeding programs. The objectives of this study were to select high‐yielding and stable yellow‐fleshed sweet potato (YFSP) genotypes in different environments and identify the favorable environment for testing. The trials were conducted in four different locations in West Java, Indonesia, using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results showed that yield was the primary source of variation, accounting for 46.947% of the total variation, followed by GE effect (29.938%) and genotype (23.115%). Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) Stability Value (ASV) analysis showed Prai (838) and high‐yielding KMDR were the genotypes with the most stability performance in all environments. Parametric and nonparametric stability analysis showed that Prai (838) produced high yields with stability performance in all environments. AMMI showed that Prai (838) and 264 were stable in all environments. Genotype + genotype by environment (GGE) biplot analysis identified Prai (838), 8(11), and Rancing, of which 8(11) and Rancing were the best performing vertex genotypes in Jatinangor. Prai (838) was the stable genotype in all stability analyses used. AC Putih was categorized as having a high level of stability (73.663%) according to coefficient of variability (CVi) with the sustainability index (SI) ranked first. Stable genotypes can be recommended as new genotypes, while Jatinangor can be used in favorable environment for testing.
Causality of Blood Metabolites on Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: Insights From a Genetic Perspective
Authors: Wang Zhaoxiang , Lu Bing , Zhang Li , Xia Yuwen , Shao Xiaoping , Zhong Shao
Published: October 2024

Background: Our goal was to examine the causal link between blood metabolites, their ratios, and the risk of developing proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) from a genetic insight.

Methods: Summary‐level data about 1400 blood metabolites and their ratios, as well as PDR, were sourced from prior genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). A two‐sample univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was utilized. Additionally, metabolic pathway analysis and sensitivity analysis were also conducted.

Results: After adjusting for multiple tests, four blood metabolites significantly correlated with PDR risk. Two ceramides, including glycosyl‐N‐palmitoyl‐sphingosine (d18:1/16:0) (odds ratio [OR] = 1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–1.17, p < 0.001, false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.005) and glycosyl‐N‐behenoyl‐sphingadienine (d18:2/22:0) (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.06–1.16, p < 0.001, FDR = 0.017), were linked to increased risk. Additionally, 3‐methylcytidine (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.03–1.08, p < 0.001, FDR = 0.021) also posed a risk, whereas (N(1)+N(8))‐acetylspermidine (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.87–0.94, p < 0.001, FDR = 0.002) appeared protective. Multivariable MR analysis further confirmed a direct, protective effect of (N(1)+N(8))‐acetylspermidine on PDR risk (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89–1.00, p = 0.040). The sensitivity analysis results indicated that evidence for heterogeneity and pleiotropy was absent.

Conclusion: These metabolites have the potential to be used as biomarkers and are promising for future research into the mechanisms and drug targets for PDR.
Kaposi Varicelliform Eruption in a Chronic Kidney Disease Individual Under Tacrolimus: A Case Report
Authors: Sitaula Seema , Shrestha Suraj , Poddar Elisha , Gosain Rabin
Published: October 2024

Background: “Kaposi varicelliform eruption” (KVE), also known as “eczema herpeticum,” refers to a rare widespread skin infection. The primary causal agent is thought to be the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Though common in patients with underlying skin dermatosis, systemic immunosuppression can at times lead to KVE.

Case Presentation: A 27‐years male, a renal transplant recipient, under systemic immunosuppressants, presented with lesions over the whole body for 2 weeks and fever for 10 days. Skin examination revealed multiple flaccid vesicles with hemorrhagic fluid over the face, trunk, and bilateral extremities. Multiple erythematous erosions over the chest and abdomen, multiple petechiae and purpura over bilateral legs, palms, soles, and abdomen, erosions over the hard palate along with thick crusts over the scalp. A tzanck smear showed plenty of acantholytic cells. With a diagnosis of KVE, he was managed with an injection of acyclovir that led to resolution of his symptoms.

Conclusion: KVE is a serious condition that may have fatal outcomes. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of patients at risk for viral complications are very important medical considerations.
Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Hyperuricemia in Urban Chinese Check‐Up Population
Authors: Feng Tianxing , Li Chaochen , Zheng Jiali , Xu Yaqing , Wang Xiaoxiao , Li Yisen , Wang Yilei , Zhu Beili , Zhao Li , Yu Jiawei
Published: October 2024

Background: The prevalence of hyperuricemia is increasing globally. The health check‐up population is a group of people dedicated to disease prevention in public health. This study aims to estimate the current prevalence of hyperuricemia among the health check‐up population in economically developed areas of China using a healthcare database.

Method: Healthcare data from 48,988 subjects in 12 provinces of China who had an annual health check‐up in 2021 were used. Hyperuricemia was defined as a serum urate level > 420 mmol/L and/or a history of physician‐diagnosed gout. An alternative definition of serum urate level > 420 mmol/L in men and > 360 mmol/L in women was used. The stratified prevalence of hyperuricemia by sex, age, region, and comorbidity group was reported. The association between hyperuricemia and sex, age, region, and comorbidities was analyzed in the multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: In 2021, the sex‐ and age‐adjusted prevalence of hyperuricemia was 13.6% in the total population (24.3% in men and 2.6% in women) based on the definition of serum urate level > 420 mmol/L. Regional prevalence varied considerably across the country, with the highest prevalence found in Fujian and the lowest in Liaoning Province (21.6% vs. 7.3%). Male sex, aging, hypertension, obesity, abdominal obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypercholesterolemia were likely to be associated with hyperuricemia.

Conclusions: This is the largest study using a healthcare database to indicate the prevalence of hyperuricemia in a health check‐up population in an economically developed area of China. The current prevalence among the Chinese health check‐up population was substantial, with a higher prevalence in males and in the eastern region. Hyperuricemia and its comorbidities warrant greater attention in the developed areas of China.
Supplementary Table S9 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table S9: Summary of multivariable (MVA) Cox regression analyses assessing the association of clinicopathological factors and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) subgroups with local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), overall survival (OS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS).
Supplementary Table S8 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table S8: Summary of univariable (UVA) Cox regression analyses assessing the association of clinicopathological factors and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) subgroups with local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), overall survival (OS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS).
Supplementary Table S3 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table S3: Reactome enriched pathways in soft tissue sarcoma (STS) matrisome and adhesome clusters. Tables for each cluster showing enriched term description and false discovery rate (FDR). Top 10 hits with FDR < 0.001 are shown for each cluster.
Supplementary Table S10 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table S10. Clinicopathological characteristics of n=92 undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) cases. Summary features of the cohort. For continuous variables, the median, minimum (min) and maximum (max) values are indicated. For categorical variables, count and percentage are shown.
Supplementary Figure S6 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Figure S6. Identification of LCP1 as a candidate prognostic factor in LMS.
Supplementary Figure S4 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Figure S4. Differentially expressed matrisome proteins in synovial sarcoma (SS) cases (n=42) that either received preoperative treatment or were untreated.
Supplementary Figure S2 from Clinical Implications and Molecular Features of Extracellular Matrix Networks in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Krasny Lukas , Kerrison William , Tam Yuen B. , Chadha Madhumeeta , Burns Jessica , Wilding Christopher P. , Chen Liang , Chowdhury Avirup , Perkins Emma , Lee Alexander T.J. , Howell Louise , Guljar Nafia , Sisley Karen , Fisher Cyril , Chudasama Priya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Figure S2. Validation of MMP14 expression in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) and leiomyosarcoma (LMS) by immunohistochemistry (IHC).