bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food‐related quality of life driven by hypervigilance and anxiety around eating in organic gastrointestinal conditions
Authors: Simons Madison , McGarva Josie , Doerfler Bethany , Tomasino Kathryn , Pandit Anjali , Lembo Anthony , Taft Tiffany
Published: September 2024

Background

Food‐related quality of life (FRQoL) measures the impact of diet, eating behaviours and food‐related anxiety on quality of life. Patients often view food and eating as central to symptom management. This is the first study to examine FRQoL in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, celiac sprue, achalasia and eosinophilic oesophagitis.

Methods

A total of 289 adults aged ≥18 years completed self‐report measures evaluating the use of dietary treatment, FRQoL and other psychosocial outcomes. Principal component factor analysis evaluated potential subscales within the Food‐Related Quality of Life Scale (FRQoL‐29), to date validated only with a total score. Univariate analyses investigated differences in FRQoL based on diagnosis, whereas correlations and hierarchical regression identified relationships between FRQoL and psychosocial outcomes.

Results

Factor analysis revealed four subscales within the FRQoL‐29, with hypervigilance around eating being the primary driver in total score. Patients reported substantial impacts of FRQoL, with those not using diet therapy scoring significantly higher for FRQoL than those on a diet with and without the support of a registered dietitian (RD). Both social (r = 0.41, p < 0.001) and physical (r = 0.31, p < 0.001) domains of health‐related quality of life were higher in patients with greater FRQoL.

Conclusion

FRQoL is significantly degraded in patients with organic gastrointestinal illness diseases, and hypervigilance around food appears to contribute most to this. Use of dietary treatment and meeting with an RD were associated with lower FRQoL, though it is unclear if patients sought RD assistance before FRQoL declined. Future studies on the relationship between dietary treatment, RD support and FRQoL are warranted.
Validation of the Japanese version of Algoplus® for the assessment of acute postoperative pain in older patients with cancer
Authors: Mori Masumi , Ikeda Eri , Fujita Kimie
Published: September 2024

Aim

This study aimed to validate a Japanese version of the Algoplus® tool by assessing postoperative pain in older Japanese patients with cancer and examining the scale's psychometric properties.

Methods

After translating Algoplus® into Japanese, we conducted a cross‐sectional study of patients aged 65 years or older who underwent surgery to remove malignant tumors. Two registered nurse‐certified investigators used the Numerical Rating Scale, the Japanese version of Algoplus®, and the Japanese version of the Abbey Pain Scale before and after analgesic use on postoperative days 3 and 5 to evaluate response to pharmacologic therapy. Validity was tested by a correlation analysis between the Japanese version of Algoplus®, two pain scales, and nine hypotheses related to demographic variables and surgical invasions. The Kuder–Richardson‐20 test and Cohen's Kappa coefficient were used for internal consistency and inter‐rater reliability, respectively.

Results

The total score of the Japanese version of Algoplus® showed strong to moderate correlations with the two pain scales. Demographic characteristics were not associated with the total score of the Japanese version, but significant correlations with operative time and postoperative analgesia administration existed. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency (Kuder–Richardson‐20 α: .70) and inter‐rater reliability (Kappa coefficient .72). The total score of the Japanese version decreased significantly after analgesic use in both postoperative assessments.

Conclusions

The Japanese version of Algoplus® is a reliable and valid instrument for nurses to easily assess acute postoperative pain in older Japanese patients with cancer and shows good responsiveness for detecting the change in pain status.
Real‐World Experience Using a Multi‐Modality System using Intense Pulsed Light, Radiofrequency Microneedling, High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound, or Thermal Radiofrequency, 808, HIFU for Skin Rejuvenation Treatment
Authors: Gold Michael , Biesman Brian , Cohen Joel L. , Goldberg David J. , Guenin Sophie , Schlesinger Todd , Taher Zaki
Published: September 2024

Background

Medical aesthetic procedures for facial rejuvenation with laser and energy‐based devices (EBDs) are rapidly increasing. The following cases highlight real‐life experience using a multi‐modality system with various handpieces that combine intense pulsed light (IPL), laser hair removal (808 diode), high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), radiofrequency microneedling (RFM), and thermal radiofrequency (RF) for antiaging and rejuvenation treatment. Laser and RFM treatments may improve skin conditions by inducing cutaneous changes that remodel the skin matrix.

Methods

Six physicians who treat patients for skin rejuvenation reported on clinical cases from their practice using a multi‐modality system with various handpieces.

Results

During the meeting, the advisors discussed 15 cases and agreed to select seven patients with different ages and skin phototypes receiving various treatments for photodamage of the face, neck, and décolleté. The advisors discussed why they selected the case, previous treatment, type of treatment, results, and clinical pearls.

Conclusion

Sharing best practices in medical aesthetics using combination treatments on a single multi‐modality energy‐based device such as laser and MRF for facial, neck, and chest skin may support healthcare providers treating patients for skin rejuvenation to improve clinical outcomes.
Photophysiology of the haploid form of the cryptophyte Teleaulax amphioxeia
Authors: Garric Sarah , Ratin Morgane , Gallet Benoit , Decelle Johan , Probert Ian , Rodriguez Francisco , Six Christophe
Published: September 2024

Cryptophytes are abundant and ubiquitous microalgae that constitute a major plastid source for kleptoplastidic ciliates and dinoflagellates. Despite their ecological significance, the understanding of their light preferences and photophysiology remains limited. Here, we provide a comprehensive study of the response of the haploid strain Teleaulax amphioxeia (Cr10EHU) to varying light irradiance. This strain is capable of growing under a wide range of irradiance levels, notably by finely tuning the different pigments bound to the membrane light‐harvesting proteins. Analysis of the luminal phycoerythrin content revealed remarkable flexibility, with phycoerythrin emerging as a pivotal protein facilitating acclimation to varying light levels. Detailed ultrastructure examinations unveiled that this adaptability was supported by the synthesis of large thylakoidal vesicles, likely enhancing the capture of green photons efficiently under low light, a phenomenon previously undocumented. Teleaulax amphioxeia Cr10EHU effectively regulated light utilization by using a cryptophyte state transition‐like process, with a larger amplitude observed under high growth irradiance. Furthermore, our results revealed the establishment of growth irradiance‐dependent non‐photochemical quenching of fluorescence, likely inducing the dissipation of excess light. This study underscores the particularities and the significant photoadaptability of the plastid of the haploid form of T. amphioxeia. It constitutes a comprehensive photophysiological characterization of the Cr10EHU strain that paves the way for future studies of the kleptoplastidy process.
Effects of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction on inflammatory biomarkers in individuals with obesity/overweight: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Aamir Ahmad Bin , Kumari Roopa , Latif Rabia , Ahmad Shakil , Rafique Nazish , Salem Ayad M. , Alasoom Lubna I. , Alsunni Ahmed , Alabdulhadi Aseel S. , Chander Subhash
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Obesity is characterized by chronic low‐grade inflammation. This study presents an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis on the effect of caloric restriction (CR) and intermittent fasting (IF) on plasma inflammatory biomarkers (C‐reactive protein [CRP], tumor necrosis factor [TNF]‐alpha, and interleukin [IL]‐6) in individuals with obesity/overweight compared with unrestricted or ad libitum feeding.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting inflammatory biomarkers after at least 8 weeks of intervention. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) were calculated using a fixed effect model. Heterogeneity was determined using I2 statistics. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the “leave‐one‐out” approach.

Results

Relatively few RCTs have investigated the effect of IF on inflammatory biomarkers than with CR (6 vs. 15). Analysis of pooled data showed that CR was associated with a significant reduction in CRP with low heterogeneity (SMD −0.15 mg/L [95% CI −0.30 to −0.00], p = 0.04; I2 = 0%, p = 0.69) and IL‐6 with high heterogeneity (SMD −0.31 pg/mL [95% CI −0.51 to −0.10], p = 0.004; I2 = 73%, p = 0.001). IF was associated with a significant decrease in TNF‐alpha with moderate heterogeneity (SMD −0.32 pg/mL [95% CI −0.63 to −0.02], p = 0.04; I2 = 44%, p = 0.13). No associations were detected between IF and CRP or IL‐6 and CR and TNF‐alpha.

Conclusion

CR may be more effective in reducing chronic low‐grade inflammation than IF. However, there were some concerns regarding the included studies' randomization and allocation sequence concealment process.
Importance of accounting for imperfect detection of plants in the estimation of population growth rates
Authors: Martínez‐Villegas Jorge A. , Pisanty Irene , Martorell Carlos , Hernández‐Apolinar Mariana , Valverde Teresa , Granados‐Hernández Luisa A. , Rodríguez‐Sánchez Mariana , Zúñiga‐Vega J. Jaime
Published: September 2024

Detection of plant individuals is imperfect. Not accounting for this issue can result in biased estimates of demographic parameters as important as population growth rates. In mobile organisms, a common practice is to explicitly account for detection probability during the estimation of most demographic parameters, but no study in plant populations has examined the consequences of ignoring imperfect detectability on the estimation of population growth rates. The lack of accounting for detection probability occurs because plant demographers have frequently assumed that detection is perfect, and because there is a scarcity of studies that formally compare the performance of estimation methods that incorporate detection probabilities with respect to methods that ignore detectabilities. Based on field data of five plant species and data simulations, we compared the performance of three methods that estimate population growth rates, two that do not estimate detection probabilities (direct counts of individuals and the minimum‐number‐alive method) and the other that explicitly accounts for detection probabilities (temporal symmetry models). Our aims were 1) to estimate detection probabilities, and 2) to evaluate the performance of these three methods by calculating bias, accuracy, and precision in their estimates of population growth rates. Our five plant species had imperfect detection. Estimates of population growth rates that explicitly incorporate detectabilities had better performance (less biased estimates, with higher accuracy and precision) than those obtained with the two methods that do not calculate detection probabilities. In these latter methods, bias increases as detection probability decreases. Our findings highlight the importance of using robust analytical methods that account for detection probability of plants during the estimation of critical demographic parameters such as population growth rates. In this way, estimates of plant population parameters will reliably indicate their actual status and quantitative trends.
Contextualized Metabolic Modelling Revealed Factors Affecting Isoflavone Accumulation in Soybean Seeds
Authors: Contador Carolina A. , Liu Ailin , Ng Ming‐Sin , Ku Yee‐Shan , Chan Siu H. J. , Lam Hon‐Ming
Published: September 2024

Isoflavones, secondary metabolites with numerous health benefits, are predominantly found in legume seeds, especially soybean; however, their contents in domesticated soybean seeds are highly variable. Wild soybeans are known for higher seed isoflavone contents than cultivars. Here we used experimental and modelling approaches on wild soybean (W05) and cultivated soybean (C08) to delineate factors influencing isoflavone accumulation. We found imported nutrients were converted into storage compounds, with isoflavone accumulation in W05 seeds being faster than in C08 ones. The isoflavone accumulation during seed development was simulated using context‐specific cotyledon metabolic models of four developmental stages on cultivar C08, and the metabolic burden imposed by increasing biomass was evaluated. Trade‐off analyses between biomass and isoflavone suggest that high biomass requirement in cultivars could limit the reallocation of resources for secondary metabolite production. Isoflavone production in mature seeds was also influenced by biomass compositions. Seeds with higher carbohydrate contents favour isoflavone production, while those with highest protein and oil contents had lowest isoflavone contents. Although seeds could synthesize isoflavones on their own, the predicted fluxes from biosynthesis alone were lower than the empirical levels. Shadow price analyses indicated that isoflavone accumulation depended on both intrinsic biosynthesis and direct contribution from the plant.
Magnetic resonance imaging–based machine learning classification of schizophrenia spectrum disorders: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Di Camillo Fabio , Grimaldi David Antonio , Cattarinussi Giulia , Di Giorgio Annabella , Locatelli Clara , Khuntia Adyasha , Enrico Paolo , Brambilla Paolo , Koutsouleris Nikolaos , Sambataro Fabio
Published: September 2024

Background

Recent advances in multivariate pattern recognition have fostered the search for reliable neuroimaging‐based biomarkers in psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia. These approaches consider the complex pattern of alterations in brain function and structure, overcoming the limitations of traditional univariate methods. To assess the reliability of neuroimaging‐based biomarkers and the contribution of study characteristics in distinguishing individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD) from healthy controls (HCs), we conducted a systematic review of the studies that used multivariate pattern recognition for this objective.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies on SSD classification using multivariate pattern analysis on magnetic resonance imaging data. We employed a bivariate random‐effects meta‐analytic model to explore the classification of sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP) across studies while also evaluating the moderator effects of clinical and non‐clinical variables.

Results

A total of 119 studies (with 12,723 patients with SSD and 13,196 HCs) were identified. The meta‐analysis estimated a SE of 79.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 77.1%–81.0%) and a SP of 80.0% (95% CI, 77.8%–82.0%). In particular, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and the Global Assessment of Functioning scores, age, age of onset, duration of untreated psychosis, deep learning, algorithm type, features selection, and validation methods had significant effects on classification performance.

Conclusions

Multivariate pattern analysis reliably identifies neuroimaging‐based biomarkers of SSD, achieving ∼80% SE and SP. Despite clinical heterogeneity, discernible brain modifications effectively differentiate SSD from HCs. Classification performance depends on patient‐related and methodological factors crucial for the development, validation, and application of prospective models in clinical settings.
Hydrothermal activity near the Permian–Triassic transition in the south‐western Ordos Basin, China: Evidence from carbonate cementation in Upper Permian sandstones
Authors: Cui Hang , Zhu Shifa , Gao Yishan , Chen Weiyan
Published: September 2024

Carbonate cementation in the Upper Permian sandstones informs the timing and temperature of hydrothermal activity in the south‐western Ordos Basin. This study presents a detailed examination of these hydrothermally influenced carbonate cements, constraining their age, carbonate diagenesis and relationship with regional geodynamic evolution. Sedimentological analyses demonstrate the development of deltaic plain and front sand bodies in the study area, which resulted in interbeds of volcanic matrix‐rich sandstones with matrix‐free sandstones. Petrography and electron microprobe analysis reveal four carbonate mineral growth phases of matrix‐free sandstones in the following sequence; scarce pure siderite, scarce Mg‐rich siderite, abundant blocky calcite and moderately abundant grain‐replacing calcite. The fluid inclusion data show anomalies of homogenization temperature of blocky carbonate cements during early diagenesis, over a wide range of ca 148 to 228°C. In addition, blocky carbonate cements show low δ13C (−5.9 to −13.1‰ Vienna PeeDee Belemnite) and δ18O (clustered tightly from −12.4 to −14.6‰ Vienna PeeDee Belemnite) values, interpreted to result from elevated temperatures during cementation, associated with activation of basement faults and concomitant hydrothermal fluid intrusion triggered by oceanic crust subduction in the south‐west margin of the Ordos Basin. Using in situ calcite U–Pb geochronology, the timing of hydrothermal activity was constrained to ca 247.0 ± 11 to 248.2 ± 4.7 Ma. This work provides a case study for applying intergranular calcite U–Pb dating to determine the absolute timing of fluid flow in sedimentary basins, offering tremendous potential to capture snapshots of various diagenetic evolution stages in sediments. The proposed diagenetic model can also provide new insights and understanding regarding hydrothermally influenced sediments. More importantly, hydrothermal activity may have commenced earlier than previously thought. The North Qinling Orogen uplift and associated Mianlue oceanic crust subduction may have begun at the Permian–Triassic transition with a protracted hydrothermal event in the south‐western Ordos Basin.
People Are More Variable Than Their Hop Test Would Suggest: Hop Performance and Self‐Reported Outcomes Over 11 Years FollowingACLReconstruction
Authors: Girdwood Michael A. , Crossley Kay M. , Patterson Brooke E. , Rio Ebonie K. , Whitehead Timothy S. , Morris Hayden G. , Culvenor Adam G.
Published: September 2024

We aimed to report the trajectory of self‐reported outcomes up to 11 years post‐ACLR. We also explored the relationship between hop performance at 1 year and: (i) future self‐reported knee outcomes; and (ii) risk of subsequent knee events. 124 participants (43 women, mean age 31 ± 8 years) were recruited at 1 year following hamstring‐autograft ACLR. Hop performance was assessed with single‐forward and side‐hop tests. Follow‐up was completed at 3 (n = 114), 5 (n = 89) and 11 years (n = 72) post‐ACLR. Self‐reported outcomes were assessed at each follow‐up with the Knee injury Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) pain and quality of life (QOL) subscales. Generalized linear mixed models estimated the relationship between hop performance and self‐reported outcomes. Subsequent knee events (new injury/surgery) to either knee were recorded, with the relationship between hop performance and risk of subsequent knee events analyzed with Cox proportional hazards. Self‐reported knee outcomes were stable (mean change < 10 points) across all timepoints but with major within‐sample variability. There was a modest relationship between greater hop performance at 1 year and better future KOOS‐pain (average marginal effect [AME] % improvement with + 1 cm single forward hop = 0.06% [95% CI 0.02–0.10]). A nonlinear spline relationship showed better single‐forward hop performance was associated with better KOOS‐QOL for scores < 108 cm, not present for higher hop scores > 108 cm. There were 21 index and 11 contralateral subsequent knee events. Hop performance was not related to risk of a subsequent knee event (hazard ratio index knee 0.99 [95% CI 0.98–1.02]). In conclusion, self‐reported knee pain and quality of life were generally stable across the 11‐year follow‐up period. Greater hop performance at 1‐year post‐ACLR was related to better self‐reported knee outcomes up to 11‐year follow‐up (of questionable clinical importance), but not associated with the risk of subsequent knee injury/surgery.
The novel HLA‐A*24:393 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Lin Chun‐Ying , Chang Chia‐Ling
Published: September 2024

HLA‐A*24:393 differs from HLA‐A*24:02:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 376 (G → A) in exon 3.
Maximizing saffron apocarotenoid production in varied tomato fruit carotenoid contexts
Authors: Lobato‐Gómez Maria , Drapal Margit , Fernández‐Muñoz Rafael , Presa Silvia , Espinosa Ana , Fraser Paul D. , Gómez‐Gómez Lourdes , Orzaez Diego , Granell Antonio
Published: September 2024

Saffron spice owes its commercial appreciation to its specific apocarotenoids: crocins, picrocrocin, and safranal. In Crocus sativus, these compounds are biosynthesized from zeaxanthin through oxidative cleavage by the carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 2 (CCD2). Transgenic tomato plants expressing CsCCD2 in the fruit, named Tomaffron, accumulate high levels of saffron apocarotenoids despite the low substrate availability for CsCCD2. In the present study, CsCCD2 has been introduced into Xantomato; this tomato variety accumulates high levels of zeaxanthin and β‐carotene in ripe fruit due to a combination of four mutant alleles. Xantomato and Tomaffron genotypes have been combined to optimize apocarotenoid production. The best transgenic lines accumulated 15 and 14 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, alongside a fourfold increase in β‐carotene compared to Xantomato, albeit at a cost in fruit yield. Segregation of the four mutations has been carried out to find the best combination for obtaining high levels of saffron apocarotenoids without adverse effects on fruit yield. Plants harboring the high‐pigmented 3 (hp3) and BETA (BSh) mutations accumulated 6 and 15 times more crocins and picrocrocin than Tomaffron, without observable pleiotropic effects. Additionally, those high levels of saffron apocarotenoids were obtained in fruit accumulating high levels of both lycopene and β‐carotene independently or in combination, suggesting a regulatory role for the apocarotenoids produced and indicating that it is possible to increase the levels of both types of healthy promoting molecules simultaneously.
ОБЗОР ФАРМАЦЕВТИЧЕСКОГО РЫНКА РЕСПУБЛИКИ КАЗАХСТАН В СЕГМЕНТЕ БИОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ/ БИОТЕХНОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННЫХ СРЕДСТВ
Authors: Жапаркулова К.А. , Атаканова А.А. , Мухтарова А.Д. , Мухамедиярова С.К. , Әбілда М.М.
Published: September 2024

Фармацевтическая и биотехнологическая отрасль занимает особое место в мировой экономике. Это самая высокотехнологичная индустрия по объему абсолютных и относительных затрат на НИОКР. Кроме того, это одна из наиболее социально значимых отраслей, обеспечивающая доступ пациентов к современным лекарственным препаратам и поддерживающая стабильное развитие системы общественного здравоохранения.
Развитие биотехнологических препаратов - один из наиболее быстрорастущих сегментов фармацевтического рынка, на их долю приходится свыше 20% всего объема продаж. Успех данной категории препаратов как правило связан с их более высокой эффективностью по сравнению с химически синтезированными препаратами, а также с меньшим числом побочных эффектов.
По данным Государственного реестра лекарственных средств Республики Казахстан установлено, что в Казахстане на апрель 2024 г. зарегистрировано 6996 лекарственных средств, из них доля биологических препаратов составляет – 5,55 % остальные – 94,45 %.
Суммарное количество биопрепаратов, зарегистрированных на казахстанском рынке, представлено 388 наименованиями, из которых основную долю составляют лекарственные препараты биологического происхождения (47,42 %), иммунобиологические препараты (35,31 %), биоаналогичные лекарственные препараты (16,75 %) и иммунологические лекарственные препараты (0,52 %).
Согласно АТХ-классификации биологические ЛС на рынке превалируют препараты крови и системы кроветворения, противомикробные препараты системного действия, а также противоопухолевые препараты и иммуномодуляторы.
При анализе лекарственных форм выпуска, зарегистрированных на отечественном рынке биологических препаратов отмечено, что большинство представлены в виде растворов – 179 (46,1 %). Препаратов в форме лиофилизатов для приготовления растворов – 99 (25,5), концентратов, предназначенных для разведения – 50 (12,9 %), суспензий – 43 (11,1 %). Также среди биологических препаратов встречаются таблетки, капсулы, порошки, капли, гели, мази, спреи и суппозитории.
Анализ показал, что в основном данная группа препаратов импортируется из стран ближнего и дальнего зарубежья. Зарубежные производители поставляют 372 наименований продукции, что составляет 95,9 % рынка.
Основными странами-поставщиками ассортиментных биопрепаратов являются следующие страны: Германия – 50 (12,9 %), Швейцария – 39 (10 %), Россия – 32 (8,2 %), Индия – 31 (7,9 %) и Италия – 26 (6,7 %).
В это время казахстанскими предприятиями производятся всего 16 наименования продукции. Из отечественных производителей Карагандинский фармацевтический комплекс (15 препаратов) и Национальный научный центр особо опасных инфекций имени М. Айкимбаева (1 препарат) выпускают биопрепараты. Это указывает на то, что отечественный фармацевтический рынок биопрепаратов находится в зачаточном состоянии и на сегодняшний день остается импортозависимым.
THE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF ADIPOSE TISSUE PERICYTES IN A DIABETIC RETINOPATHY
Authors: Issabekova A. , Ogay V.
Published: September 2024

Diabetes mellitus is an endocrine disorder that encompasses a large group of metabolic irregularities characterized by a high level of glucose in the bloodstream and impaired glycemic control (Cai  X. et al, 2016). Diabetic retinopathy (DR) stands as the most frequently encountered microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus and remains the leading cause of vision loss in the working-age population worldwide (Yau JWY, 2012; Stitt AW, 2016). Research findings have demonstrated alterations in all major types of retinal cells during the development of DR, such as endothelial cells, neurons, microglia, astrocytes, and Müller cells (Lechner J, 2016). The main cause of retinopathy development is impaired blood circulation in the retina. The majority of modern treatment methods, such as laser photocoagulation, corticosteroids, vitreoretinal surgery, and anti-VEGF injections, are employed at advanced stages of the disease characterized by significant retinal damage (Das A, 2015). The potential for regenerative therapy in treating DR is currently under scrutiny by numerous researchers (Gaddam S, 2019, Bertelli PM, 2020). It is hypothesized that retinal function could be restored through regeneration of retinal blood flow, supported by cases of spontaneous reperfusion of ischemic retina and vision acuity restoration (Stitt AW, 2011).  A promising approach in diabetic retinopathy treatment is various types of stem cells application. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are among the most actively studied cell types in cellular regenerative therapy and can be isolated from various sources like bone marrow, adipose tissue, peripheral and umbilical cord blood (Samsonraj RM, 2017). They are defined as multipotent precursor cells with spindle-shaped morphology, capable of trilineage mesenchymal differentiation (into adipocytes, osteoblasts, and chondroblasts), expressing specific surface cell markers, and displaying high proliferation capacity (Dominici MLBK, 2006). Six weeks after inducing diabetes in adult rats, intravenously administered endothelial-like MSCs were capable of restoring altered vascular functions (Motawea SM, 2020). It has been demonstrated that adipose stem cells, a type of mesenchymal stromal/stem cell derived from adipose tissue, under specific culture conditions, can acquire pericyte characteristics and express pericyte markers including α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), PDGFR, and NG2 (Mannino G, 2020). Pericytes are microcapillary cells that have similar to stem cells properties. Injection of human adipose stromal/stem cells into the vitreous of a murine model of oxygen-induced retinopathy facilitated vascular regrowth and were able to integrate into the retinal microvascular network, localizing similarly to pericytes (Hajmousa G, 2018). The optimal method of immunomodulatory and regenerative properties of pericytes need to be determined to increase the therapeutic potential of the cells.
Adhesion of a Rigid Sphere to a Freestanding Elastic Membrane With Pre-Tension
Authors: Yuan Weike , Ding Yue , Niu Xinrui , Wang Gangfeng
Published: September 2024

Adhesion between a solid sphere and a thin film is a common but crucial issue in the study of biological membranes and two-dimensional materials. To supplement quantitative knowledge of membrane adhesion, this work addresses the axisymmetric adhesive contact between a rigid sphere and a circular freestanding elastic membrane clamped at the perimeter. For the membranes following linear stretching elasticity with initial radial tension, both the Johnson–Kendall–Roberts (JKR)- and Derjaguin–Muller–Toporov (DMT)-type adhesion as well as the transition regime in-between are considered. The dependency of contact radius and displacement on external force is studied analytically. In essence, the general solution is governed by three dimensionless parameters, reflecting the effects of membrane stretching elasticity, the range of adhesion force, and the membrane size. It is interestingly found that the membrane size does not affect the contact radius and displacement at zero external force at all and has minor influence on the value of pull-off force. The presented closed form solutions might be useful for the understanding of adhesion behaviors of sphere-membrane systems.
Scaling Heat Transfer and Pressure Losses of Novel Additively Manufactured Rib Designs
Authors: Corbett Thomas M. , Thole Karen A.
Published: September 2024

Rib turbulators are a key cooling feature that enables increased heat transfer on the interior of gas turbine components. As metal additive manufacturing becomes available for developing turbine parts, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how the surface roughness intrinsic to this manufacturing method impacts the performance of rib turbulators. To explore what impact roughness has on rib turbulator performance, several relevant scale test coupons were manufactured on two different additive machines out of IN718. Additionally, several coupons were built at large scales to effectively reduce the relative roughness size impacts and determine scale effects. A range of different wavy broken rib designs, varying both rib wavelength and orientation within a channel were evaluated. Coupon geometry and surface roughness were characterized using both computed tomography scans and optical profilometry. Variations between the print methods were found to have limited impact on the surface roughness, but significant impact on the accuracy to meet the design intent with rib heights varying by 30%. Following characterization, coupons were flow tested and it was found that the ribs that more regularly disturbed the flow as a function of their geometry most significantly enhanced heat transfer and pressure drop. The performance index of the broken wavy ribs was similar to other advanced rib designs, such as broken or V shaped ribs, but augmentations to heat transfer and pressure drop were generally lower. The rib performance was compared as a function of relative roughness, and it was found that increases in relative roughness resulted in increased friction factor and heat transfer, especially at higher Reynolds numbers.
Middle School Students’ Team Cohesion Development Within a Sport Education Season: A Mixed Methods Investigation
Authors: Wang Baofu , Chen Senlin
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purposes of the study were to examine the longitudinal changes of team cohesion within a Sport Education season among female students and to identify facilitators and barriers underlying cohesion development. Method: A longitudinal, concurrent, mixed methods design was employed. Students from sixth to eighth grades (all girls; n = 55) in small teams (n = 15), and their physical education teacher, from one convenience private school in a southern U.S. state, participated in this study. All students completed the validated Youth Sport Environment Questionnaire across three time points. Regular field observations, focus group interviews with students, and individual interviews with student leaders and the physical education teacher were conducted to capture the facilitators and barriers. Results: No significant time effect was observed for team cohesion, but student leadership significantly moderated cohesion development from Time 2 to Time 3 and from Time 1 to Time 3, but not from Time 1 to Time 2. Qualitative data unraveled four facilitators and three barriers underlying cohesion development. Conclusion: The findings are informative for future Sport Education-based curricular and instructional practices to nurture team cohesion.
Amylase-associated genetic pattern in
Xanthomonas euvesicatoria
on pepper
Authors: Subedi Aastha , Iruegas-Bocardo Fernanda , Luo Laixin , Minsavage Gerald V. , Roberts Pamela D. , Jones Jeffrey B. , Goss Erica M.
Published: September 2024

Bacterial leaf spot of pepper (BSP), primarily caused by
Xanthomonas euvesicatoria (Xe
), poses a significant challenge to pepper production worldwide. Despite its impact, the genetic diversity of this pathogen remains underexplored, which limits our understanding of its population structure. To bridge this knowledge gap, we conducted a comprehensive analysis using 103
Xe
strains isolated from pepper in southwest Florida to characterize genomic and type III effector (T3E) variation in this population. Phylogenetic analysis of core genomes revealed a major distinct genetic lineage associated with amylolytic activity. This amylolytic lineage was represented in
Xe
strains globally. Molecular clock analysis dated the emergence of amylolytic strains in
Xe
to around 1972. Notably, non-amylolytic strains possessed a single base pair frameshift deletion in the ⍺-amylase gene yet retained a conserved C-terminus. GUS assay revealed the expression of two open reading frames in non-amylolytic strains, one at the N-terminus and another that starts 136 base pairs upstream of the ⍺-amylase gene. Analysis of T3Es in the Florida
Xe
population identified variation in 12 effectors, including two classes of mutations in
avrBs2
that prevent AvrBs2 from triggering a hypersensitive response in
Bs2
-resistant pepper plants. Knowledge of T3E variation could be used for effector-targeted disease management. This study revealed previously undescribed population structure in this economically important pathogen.

IMPORTANCE

Bacterial leaf spot (BSP), a significant threat to pepper production globally, is primarily caused by
Xanthomonas euvesicatoria
(
Xe
). Limited genomic data has hindered detailed studies on its population diversity. This study analyzed the whole-genome sequences of 103
Xe
strains from peppers in southwest Florida, along with additional global strains, to explore the pathogen’s diversity. The study revealed two major distinct genetic groups based on their amylolytic activity, the ability to break down starch, with non-amylolytic strains having a mutation in the ⍺-amylase gene. Additionally, two classes of mutations in the
avrBs2
gene were found, leading to susceptibility in pepper plants with the
Bs2
resistance gene, a commercially available resistance gene for BSP. These findings highlight the need to forecast the emergence of such strains, identify genetic factors for innovative disease management, and understand how this pathogen evolves and spreads.
Modified Tn
7
transposon vectors for controlled chromosomal gene expression
Authors: Chang Chyden , Phan Minh-Duy , Schembri Mark A.
Published: September 2024

Complementation remains a foundation for demonstrating molecular Koch’s postulates. While this is frequently achieved using plasmids, limitations such as increased gene copy number and the need for antibiotic supplementation to avoid plasmid loss can restrict their use. Chromosomal integration systems using the Tn
7
transposon provide an alternative to plasmids for complementation and facilitate the stable insertion of genes at the chromosomal
att
Tn
7
site without the need for selection pressure. Here, we enhanced the utility of mini-Tn
7
insertion vectors by the addition of inducible (P
cym
) and constitutive (PcL and P
rpsM
) promoters, allowing differential transcriptional control of genes integrated into the chromosome. We validated the utility of these promoters by cloning the
gfp
gene, encoding green fluorescent protein, downstream of each promoter and integrating a mini-Tn
7
construct harboring these elements into the
att
Tn
7
site on the chromosome of the
Escherichia coli
K-12 strain MG1655. The PcL and P
rpsM
promoters provided equivalent levels of GFP expression and offered flexibility based on the target host strain. Activation of the tightly regulated P
cym
promoter with its inducer cumate resulted in tunable expression of GFP in a dose-dependent manner. We further demonstrated the tight control of the P
cym
promoter using the toxic
impCAB
genes, and the expression of which is detrimental to
E. coli
viability. Together, these modified mini-Tn
7
vectors allowing differential control of genes integrated into the chromosome at a conserved site offer an efficient system for complementation where plasmid use is restricted.

IMPORTANCE

Chromosomal integration using mini-Tn
7
vectors provides an efficient means to insert genes into the chromosome of many gram-negative bacteria. Insertion occurs at a conserved site and allows for the stable integration of genes in single copy. While this system has multiple benefits for enabling complementation, a cornerstone for fulfilling molecular Koch’s postulates, greater flexibility for controlled gene expression would enhance its utility. Here, we have added to the function of mini-Tn7 vectors by the addition of inducible and constitutive promoters and demonstrated their capacity to drive the controlled expression of target genes integrated into the chromosome. In addition to complementation, these modified vectors offer broad application for other approaches including chromosomal tagging,
in vivo
expression, metabolic engineering, and synthetic biology.
Neurological complications caused by SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Pang Zehan , Tang Ao , He Yujie , Fan Junfen , Yang Qingmao , Tong Yigang , Fan Huahao
Published: September 2024

SARS-CoV-2 can not only cause respiratory symptoms but also lead to neurological complications. Research has shown that more than 30% of SARS-CoV-2 patients present neurologic symptoms during COVID-19 (A. Pezzini and A. Padovani, Nat Rev Neurol 16:636–644, 2020,
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41582-020-0398-3
). Increasing evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 can invade both the central nervous system (CNS) (M.S. Xydakis, M.W. Albers, E.H. Holbrook, et al. Lancet Neurol 20: 753–761, 2021
https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(21)00182-4
) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS) (M.N. Soares, M. Eggelbusch, E. Naddaf, et al. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 13:11–22, 2022,
https://doi.org/10.1002/jcsm.12896
), resulting in a variety of neurological disorders. This review summarized the CNS complications caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, including encephalopathy, neurodegenerative diseases, and delirium. Additionally, some PNS disorders such as skeletal muscle damage and inflammation, anosmia, smell or taste impairment, myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, ICU-acquired weakness, and post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 were described. Furthermore, the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2-induced neurological disorders were also discussed, including entering the brain through retrograde neuronal or hematogenous routes, disrupting the normal function of the CNS through cytokine storms, inducing cerebral ischemia or hypoxia, thus leading to neurological complications. Moreover, an overview of long-COVID-19 symptoms is provided, along with some recommendations for care and therapeutic approaches of COVID-19 patients experiencing neurological complications.
The cell division protein FzlA performs a conserved function in diverse alphaproteobacteria
Authors: Payne Isaac P. , Aubry Brody , Barrows Jordan M. , Brown Pamela J. B. , Goley Erin D.
Published: September 2024

In almost all bacteria, the tubulin-like GTPase FtsZ polymerizes to form a “Z-ring” that marks the site of division. FtsZ recruits other proteins, collectively known as the divisome, that together remodel and constrict the envelope. Constriction is driven by peptidoglycan (PG) cell wall synthesis by the glycosyltransferase FtsW and the transpeptidase FtsI (FtsWI), but these enzymes require activation to function. How recruitment of FtsZ to the division site leads to FtsWI activation and constriction remains largely unknown. Previous work in our laboratory demonstrated that an FtsZ-binding protein, FzlA, is essential for activation of FtsWI in the alphaproteobacterium
Caulobacter crescentus
. Additionally, we found that FzlA binds to a DNA translocase called FtsK, suggesting that it may link constriction activation to chromosome segregation. FzlA is conserved throughout Alphaproteobacteria but has only been examined in detail in
C. crescentus
. Here, we explored whether FzlA function is conserved in diverse Alphaproteobacteria. We assessed FzlA homologs from
Rickettsia parkeri
and
Agrobacterium tumefaciens
, and found that, similar to
C. crescentus
FzlA, they bind directly to FtsZ and localize to midcell. The FtsZ-FzlA interaction interface is conserved, as we demonstrated that FzlA from each of the three species examined can bind to FtsZ from any of the three
in vitro
. Finally, we determined that
A. tumefaciens
FzlA can fulfill the essential function of FzlA when produced in
C. crescentus
, indicating conservation of function. These results suggest that FzlA serves as an important regulator that coordinates chromosome segregation with envelope constriction across diverse Alphaproteobacteria.

IMPORTANCE

Cell division is essential for bacterial replication and must be highly regulated to ensure robust remodeling of the cell wall in coordination with segregation of the genome to daughter cells. In
Caulobacter crescentus
, FzlA plays a major role in regulating this process by activating cell wall synthesis in a manner that couples constriction to chromosome segregation. FzlA is broadly conserved in Alphaproteobacteria, suggesting that it plays a similar function across this class of bacteria. Here, we have shown that, indeed, FzlA biochemical interactions and function are conserved in diverse Alphaproteobacteria. Because FzlA is conserved in Alphaproteobacterial human pathogens, understanding this protein and its interactome could present therapeutic benefits by identifying potential antibiotic targets to treat infections.
How structural biology has changed our understanding of icosahedral viruses
Authors: Comas-Garcia Mauricio
Published: September 2024

Cryo-electron microscopy and tomography have allowed us to unveil the remarkable structure of icosahedral viruses. However, in the past few years, the idea that these viruses must have perfectly symmetric virions, but in some cases, it might not be true. This has opened the door to challenging paradigms in structural virology and raised new questions about the biological implications of “unusual” or “defective” symmetries and structures. Also, the continual improvement of these technologies, coupled with more rigorous sample purification protocols, improvements in data processing, and the use of artificial intelligence, has allowed solving the structure of sub-viral particles in highly heterogeneous samples and finding novel symmetries or structural defects. In this review, I initially analyzed the case of the symmetry and composition of hepatitis B virus-produced spherical sub-viral particles. Then, I focused on Alphaviruses as an example of “imperfect” icosahedrons and analyzed how structural biology has changed our understanding of the Alphavirus assembly and some biological implications arising from these discoveries.
Supplemental Material: Late Quaternary slip rate of the strike-slip faults on the eastern margin of the Qaidam Basin on the Tibetan Plateau and its implication on regional strain partitioning
Authors: Bao Guodong , al. et
Published: September 2024

Text S1 (the process of the Photoscan software), Text S2 (optically stimulated luminescence dating), and Figures S1–S26. 
Proximal tibiofibular joint instability in multiligamentous injury of the knee
Authors: Rahim Siti Mastura Binte , Loh James Sir Young
Published: September 2024

We present a case of a man in his 40s with a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and posterolateral corner (PLC) injury sustained after a cycling accident. Physical examination and MRI confirmed the diagnosis. He was treated with reconstruction of the ACL, PLC and proximal tibiofibular joint. Postoperative treatment included physical therapy to improve knee range of motion and full weight-bearing after 6 weeks. He was able to return to full activities including completing a marathon after 1 year. Identifying proximal tibiofibular joint instability is essential in patients with multiligamentous knee injury as it is often missed. The use of a single tunnel for PLC and proximal tibiofibular joint reconstruction can reduce risk of tunnel convergence.
Generative artificial intelligence in primary care: an online survey of UK general practitioners
Authors: Blease Charlotte R , Locher Cosima , Gaab Jens , Hägglund Maria , Mandl Kenneth D
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Following the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022, interest in large language model-powered chatbots has soared with increasing focus on the clinical potential of these tools. We sought to measure general practitioners’ (GPs) current use of this new generation of chatbots to assist with any aspect of clinical practice in the UK.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to a non-probability sample of GPs registered with the clinician marketing service Doctors.net.uk. The study was launched as a monthly ‘omnibus survey’ which has a predetermined sample size of 1000 participants.

Results

531 (53%) respondents were men, 544 (54%) were 46 years or older. 20% (205) reported using generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools in clinical practice; of those who answered affirmatively and were invited to clarify further, 29% (47) reported using these tools to generate documentation after patient appointments and 28% (45) to suggest a differential diagnosis.

Discussion

Administered a year after ChatGPT was launched, this is the largest survey we know of conducted into doctors’ use of generative AI in clinical practice. Findings suggest that GPs may derive value from these tools, particularly with administrative tasks and to support clinical reasoning.

Conclusion

Despite a lack of guidance about these tools and unclear work policies, GPs report using generative AI to assist with their job. The medical community will need to find ways to both educate physicians and trainees and guide patients about the safe adoption of these tools.