bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of sRNAs enriched in outer membrane vesicles of pathogenic Flavobacterium psychrophilum causing Bacterial Cold Water Disease in rainbow trout
Authors: Chapagain Pratima , Ali Ali , Kidane Destaalem T. , Farone Mary , Salem Mohamed 
Published: June 2024

AbstractFlavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp) causes Bacterial Cold Water Disease in salmonids. During host‐pathogen interactions, gram‐negative bacteria, such as Fp, release external membrane vesicles (OMVs) harbouring cargos, such as DNA, RNA and virulence factors. This study aimed to characterise the potential role of the OMVs’ small RNAs (sRNAs) in the Fp‐rainbow trout host‐pathogen interactions. sRNAs carried within OMVs were isolated from Fp. RNA‐Seq datasets from whole‐cell Fp and their isolated OMVs indicated substantial enrichment of specific sRNAs in the OMVs compared to the parent cell. Many of the OMV‐packaged sRNAs were located in the pathogenicity islands of Fp. Conservation of sRNAs in 65 strains with variable degrees of virulence was reported. Dual RNA‐Seq of host and pathogen transcriptomes on day 5 post‐infection of Fp ‐resistant and ‐susceptible rainbow trout genetic lines revealed correlated expression of OMV‐packaged sRNAs and their predicted host's immune gene targets. In vitro, treatment of the rainbow trout epithelial cell line RTgill‐W1 with OMVs showed signs of cytotoxicity accompanied by dynamic changes in the expression of host genes when profiled 24 h following treatment. The OMV‐treated cells, similar to the Fp ‐resistant fish, showed downregulated expression of the suppressor of cytokine signalling 1 (SOCS1) gene, suggesting induction of phagosomal maturation. Other signs of modulating the host gene expression following OMV‐treatment include favouring elements from the phagocytic, endocytic and antigen presentation pathways in addition to HSP70, HSP90 and cochaperone proteins, which provide evidence for a potential role of OMVs in boosting the host immune response. In conclusion, the study identified novel microbial targets and inherent characteristics of OMVs that could open up new avenues of treatment and prevention of fish infections.
Enhancing Agricultural Sustainability Through Rhizomicrobiome: A Review
Authors: Behera Prateek Ranjan , Behera Kishan Kumar , Sethi Gangadhar , Prabina B. Jeberlin , Bai A. Thoyajakshi , Sipra B. S. , Adarsh Varanasi , Das Sasmita , Behera Kanhu Charan , Singh Lakshmi , Mishra Mihir Kumar , Behera Maheswari 
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACTSustainable agriculture represents the responsible utilization of natural resources while safeguarding the well‐being of the natural environment. It encompasses the objectives of preserving the environment, fostering economic growth, and promoting socioeconomic equality. To achieve sustainable development for humanity, it is imperative to prioritize sustainable agriculture. One significant approach to achieving this transition is the extensive utilization of microbes, which play a crucial role due to the genetic reliance of plants on the beneficial functions provided by symbiotic microbes. This review focuses on the significance of rhizospheric microbial communities, also known as the rhizomicrobiome (RM). It is a complex community of microorganisms that live in the rhizosphere and influence the plant's growth and health. It provides its host plant with various benefits related to plant growth, including biocontrol, biofertilization, phytostimulation, rhizoremediation, stress resistance, and other advantageous properties. Yet, the mechanisms by which the RM contributes to sustainable agriculture remain largely unknown. Investigating this microbial population presents a significant opportunity to advance toward sustainable agriculture. Hence, this study aims to provide an overview of the diversity and applications of RM in sustainable agriculture practices. Lately, there has been growing momentum in various areas related to rhizobiome research and its application in agriculture. This includes rhizosphere engineering, synthetic microbiome application, agent‐based modeling of the rhizobiome, and metagenomic studies. So, developing bioformulations of these beneficial microorganisms that support plant growth could serve as a promising solution for future strategies aimed at achieving a new green revolution.
Characterization of scalp, eyelash and eyebrow hair regrowth in patients with severe alopecia areata randomized to placebo in brave AA1 and brave AA2 trials
Authors: Zlotogorski Abraham , Vañó‐Galván Sergio , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Durand Frederick , Yu Guanglei , Chiasserini Chiara , Lu Na , Mostaghimi Arash 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundAlopecia areata (AA) is an auto‐immune disorder characterized by non‐scarring hair loss. With the emergence of effective therapies for severe AA, there is a need to better understand the prognosis of untreated AA, specifically the potential for spontaneous hair regrowth.ObjectivesTo describe hair regrowth occurring on placebo during the first 36 weeks of the BRAVE‐AA trials.MethodsThis analysis pools the data of 345 placebo‐treated patients from BRAVE‐AA1 and BRAVE‐AA2, two Phase 3 clinical trials of baricitinib, an oral selective Janus kinase inhibitor, approved for the treatment of adults with severe AA. Scalp hair regrowth was assessed by the mean change from baseline in Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT), the proportion of patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 (less than 20% hair loss); and SALT50 (50% improvement from baseline in SALT score), between Weeks 0 and 36. Patients achieving Clinician Reported Outcome (ClinRO) measures for eyebrow and eyelash hair loss™ scores of 0 or 1 (full coverage or minimal gaps) with a ≥2‐point improvement from baseline were also assessed.ResultsAt Week 36, the mean [SD] change from baseline in SALT score was −5.5 [20.9], with 14 (4.1%) and 32 (9.3%) of the 345 placebo‐treated patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 and SALT50, respectively. A total of 9 (3.8%) and 8 (4.3%) patients achieved a ClinRO score of 0 or 1 with a ≥2‐point improvement from baseline for eyebrow (n = 236) and eyelash (n = 186), respectively. Patients achieving a SALT score ≤20 tended to have a lower mean SALT score at baseline and a shorter duration since the onset of AA.ConclusionsThe low likelihood of spontaneous hair regrowth observed in the BRAVE‐AA trials is consistent with other published literature. These results can aid in understanding the prognosis of severe AA when left untreated and, in turn, inform treatment‐related decisions.
Nitrogen release and microbial community characteristics during the decomposition of field‐incorporated corn straw in Northeast China
Authors: Yan Chao , Zhao Sutong , Wu Haimeng , Yang Daocheng , Hou Zhaofang , Shan Fuxin , Yan Shuangshuang , Lyu Xiaochen , Ma Chunmei , Gong Zhenping 
Published: June 2024

AbstractStraw incorporation increases the amount of nutrients in soil and greatly impacts soil nitrogen and microbial communities. In this study, 15N‐labeled corn straw was used as the material, the experiment consisted of five treament (AS: placing the straw 15 cm above the soil surface, SM: using the straw to mulch the soil surface, B15: burying the straw 15 cm below the ground surface, B30: burying the straw 30 cm below the ground surface, B45: burying the straw 45 cm below the ground surface). The changes in 15N abundance in straw were analyzed. An estimation method for nitrogen release and uptake by field‐incorporated straw was proposed, and the relationships between nitrogen release and uptake and related microbes were established. The results showed that the exchange of nitrogen between maize straw buried in soil at different depths and the environment was not significant. The corn straw exposed to the air absorbed more nitrogen from the environment in the second year of decomposition, and the larger the area exposed to the air was, the more nitrogen was absorbed from the environment. The relative abundances of Burkholderiales, Flavobacteriales, Pseudomonadales, and Sphingobacteriales were significantly positively correlated with the straw decomposition rate and nitrogen release rate. The relative abundance of Rhizobiales was significantly negatively correlated with the straw decomposition rate and nitrogen release rate. The relative abundances of Sphingobacteriales, Flavobacteriales, and Pseudomonadales were significantly negatively correlated with the straw nitrogen uptake rate.
Pelagic ecosystem research incubators (PERIcosms): optimized incubation tanks to investigate natural communities under long term, low nutrient, and low metal conditions
Authors: Seelen Emily A. , Townsend Emily , Gleich Samantha J. , Caron David A. , Dugenne Mathilde , White Angelicque E. , Karl David M. , John Seth G. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn vitro incubations using natural marine communities can provide insight into community structure and function in ways that are challenging through field observations alone. We have designed a minimal metal incubation system for controlled and repeatable experimentation of microbial communities. The systems, dubbed Pelagic Ecosystem Research Incubators (PERIcosms), are 115 L, conical tanks designed to sample suspended, settled, and wall associated material for month long periods. PERIcosms combine some of the ecological advantages of large volume mesocosm incubations with the experimental ease and replication of bottle incubations, and their design is accessible for use by researchers without specialized training or travel to a designated incubation facility. Here, we provide a detailed description for the construction and implementation of PERIcosms and demonstrate their potential to promote replicable, diverse communities for several weeks under clean conditions using time‐series results from two field experiments. One field experiment utilized coastal waters collected from Santa Catalina Island, CA and the other oligotrophic waters collected offshore of Honolulu, HI. Biomass metrics (chlorophyll a and particulate carbon) along with 16S/18S DNA based community composition assessments were conducted to show that communities contained within PERIcosms remained alive and diverse for several weeks using a semi‐continuous culturing approach. We detail trace metal clean techniques that can be used to minimize external contamination, particularly for low dissolved iron environments. PERIcosms have the potential to facilitate natural community incubations which are needed to continue advancing our understanding of microbial ecology and geochemistry.
Validation of the German version of the 25‐item hikikomori questionnaire 25
Authors: Hajek André , Teo Alan R. , Zwar Larissa , König Hans‐Helmut 
Published: June 2024

AbstractObjectivesThe 25‐item Hikikomori Questionnaire (HQ‐25) is an instrument developed to measure a condition characterized by extreme social withdrawal that was first described in Japan. This study aimed to translate the HQ‐25 into German and validate the German version (HQ‐25‐G).MethodsTranslation was conducted according to established guidelines. Validation was based on data from a quota sample of individuals living in Germany, ranging from 18 to 74 years old (representing the distribution of age, sex and federal state, n = 5000). Data collection occurred during August and September 2023. We tested reliability, construct validity and concurrent validity. Moreover, HQ‐25 scores for key sociodemographic group were reported.ResultsInternal reliability for the HQ‐25‐G was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.93). We confirmed the original three‐factor model. Moreover, higher hikikomori levels were significantly associated with more depressive symptoms (r = 0.50), more anxiety symptoms (r = 0.45), higher loneliness levels (r = 0.56), higher levels of objective social isolation (r = −0.47), higher levels of perceived social isolation (r = 0.59) and a higher preference for solitude (r = 0.45).ConclusionsIn a large population‐based sample (including younger adults, middle‐aged adults and older adults), the HQ‐25‐G version proves to be a psychometrically robust instrument, which is useful for further exploring the phenomenon of hikikomori within the German‐speaking population.
Multiphoton parallel transmission (MP‐pTx): Pulse design methods and numerical validation
Authors: Drago John M. , Guerin Bastien , Stockmann Jason P. , Wald Lawrence L. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractPurposeWe propose and evaluate multiphoton parallel transmission (MP‐pTx) to mitigate flip angle inhomogeneities in high‐field MRI. MP‐pTx is an excitation method that utilizes a single, conventional birdcage coil supplemented with low‐frequency (kHz) irradiation from a multichannel shim array and/or gradient channels. SAR analysis is simplified to that of a conventional birdcage coil, because only the radiofrequency (RF) field from the birdcage coil produces significant SAR.MethodsMP‐pTx employs an off‐resonance RF pulse from a conventional birdcage coil supplemented with oscillating ‐directed fields from a multichannel shim array and/or the gradient coils. We simulate the ability of MP‐pTx to create uniform nonselective brain excitations at 7 T using realistic and field maps. The RF, shim array, and gradient waveform's amplitudes and phases are optimized using a genetic algorithm followed by sequential quadratic programming.ResultsA 1 ms MP‐pTx excitation using a 32‐channel shim array with current constrained to less than 50 Amp‐turns reduced the transverse magnetization's normalized root‐mean‐squared error from 29% for a conventional birdcage excitation to 6.6% and was nearly 40% better than a 1 ms birdcage coil 5 kT‐point excitation with optimized kT‐point locations and comparable pulse power.ConclusionThe MP‐pTx method resembles conventional pTx in its goals and approach but replaces the parallel RF channels with cheaper, low‐frequency shim channels. The method mitigates high‐field flip angle inhomogeneities to a level better than 3 T CP‐mode and comparable to 7 T pTx while retaining the straightforward SAR characteristics of conventional birdcage excitations, as low‐frequency shim array fields produce negligible SAR.
Iterative learning observer‐based fault‐tolerant control for on‐orbit serving spacecraft with coupled orbit and attitude dynamics
Authors: Li Shiyi , Liu Kerun , Liu Ming 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis article investigates the problems of coupled orbit and attitude dynamics modeling and control for an on‐orbit serving spacecraft that is going to dock with a target spacecraft. First, a coupled relative orbit and attitude dynamics model of the servicing spacecraft with respect to the target spacecraft is constructed, considering external disturbances and actuators faults. To deal with such effects, two iterative learning observers are then designed respectively for orbit dynamics and attitude dynamics, which are capable of estimating interferences and faults. Combining the estimation information, the final control law is proposed based on the back stepping method. Through the Lyapunov approach, the stability of the closed‐loop control system is analyzed. Finally, a numerical simulation is carried out to bear out the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Experimental study on the continuous preparation of high‐performance thermal conductivity CNTs/EG/SSBR composite based on the shear and elongation flow fields with the assistance of the silanization reaction
Authors: Cheng Yaohua , Wang Qianting , Fang Hui 
Published: June 2024

AbstractA self‐developed Serial Rubber Continuous Mixing Device (SRCMD) based on the shear and elongation flow fields was adopted to continuously prepare the carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/expanded graphite (EG)/Solution‐polymerized styrene butadiene rubber (SSBR) composite. Meanwhile, the silanization reaction between the Silica and Si69 was introduced to improve the performance of the CNTs/EG/SSBR composite. When comparing the sample prepared using the two‐stage mixing process based on the shear flow field in the internal mixer, the continuously prepared CNTs/EG/SSBR composite with 3 wt% CNTs and 15 wt% EG demonstrates a higher thermal conductivity of 1.32 W/m·K. At the same time, it exhibits significant advantages in terms of mechanical properties, processability and dispersion rating. In addition, the mechanism for the continuous preparation of CNTs/EG/SSBR composite was revealed through visual experiments. This study aims to achieve the real continuous production of high‐performance thermally conductive polymer composites to meet the urgent demand for thermal conductivity materials in 5G technology.Highlights
Real continuous preparation of CNTs/EG/SSBR composite was realized.
The silanization index of 92.26% between Silica and Si69 was achieved.
Good silanization promotes the construction of thermal conductivity networks.
High‐performance CNTs/EG/SSBR composite with low Payne effect was obtained.
Exacerbation of restless legs syndrome following amygdalohippocampectomy: A case report
Authors: Eguchi Sachiko , Yokotsuka‐Ishida Saeko , Arai Yusuke , Sasayama Daimei , Maeda Takugo , Kanaya Kohei , Fukuyama Tetsuhiro , Nomura Kensuke , Washizuka Shinsuke 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundRestless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological sensorimotor disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. In the perioperative period, patients with RLS may experience an acute exacerbation of symptoms. Although studies on the exacerbation of RLS after brain surgery are limited, we present a case wherein symptoms worsened following left amygdalohippocampectomy.Case PresentationA 58‐year‐old woman diagnosed with mesiotemporal lobe epilepsy accompanied by left hippocampal sclerosis underwent a left amygdalohippocampectomy. The patient reported uncomfortable sensations in the lower limbs preoperatively. However, the urge to move her legs was manageable and not distinctly diagnosed with RLS. The symptoms began to deteriorate on the fifth postoperative day primarily affecting the legs and back, with a notable emphasis on the right side. Pramipexole treatment effectively ameliorated these symptoms.ConclusionNo reports are available highlighting the exacerbation of RLS after amygdalohippocampectomy. Perioperative factors, such as anesthesia and iron deficiency due to hemorrhage, have been proposed as aggravating factors for RLS; however, the asymmetry of RLS, particularly the atypical right‐sided exacerbation in this case, makes it unlikely that this was the primary cause. A negative correlation between opioid receptor availability in the amygdala and RLS severity has been reported, suggesting that amygdalohippocampectomy contributes to the exacerbation of RLS symptoms. This case provides valuable insights into the possible involvement of the amygdala in the pathophysiology of RLS and practical considerations for the clinical management of the condition.
Inconsistencies between prenatal diagnostic and genetic testing laboratories on variant validation of rare monogenic diseases
Authors: Lin Liling , Zhang Ying , Pan Hong , Wang Jingmin , Qi Yu , Ma Yinan 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has enhanced the diagnostic efficacy for monogenic diseases, while presenting challenges in achieving consistent diagnoses.MethodWe retrospectively analyzed the concordance rate and reasons for the inconsistency between the original diagnostic result from the genetic testing laboratory and the variant validation result from the prenatal diagnostic center. The validation procedure comprised three stages: validation of variant detection, reevaluation of variant classification, and assessment of recurrence risk, which involved verifying the mode of inheritance and parental carriage.ResultIn total, 17 (6%) of the 286 families affected by rare monogenic diseases showed different results during the variant validation procedure. These cases comprised four (23.5%) with variant detection errors, 12 (70.5%) with inconsistent interpretation, and one (6%) with non‐Mendelian inheritance patterns. False‐positive NGS results confirmed by Sanger sequencing were related to pseudogenes and GC‐rich regions. The classification of the 17 variants was altered in the 12 cases owing to various factors. The case with an atypical inheritance pattern was originally considered autosomal recessive inheritance, but was diagnosed as maternal uniparental disomy after additional genetic analysis.ConclusionWe underscored the significance of variant validation by prenatal diagnostic centers. Families affected by monogenic diseases with reproductive plans should be referred to prenatal genetic centers as early as possible to avoid different results that may postpone subsequent prenatal diagnosis.
Effects of hard and soft confinement on crystal polymorphism and crystal development in electrospun core‐sheath fibers
Authors: Huang Hsiu‐Feng , Tsai Yi‐Hsin , Lo Chieh‐Tsung 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study employs coaxial electrospinning to fabricate core‐sheath fibers composed of crystalline poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) in the core and amorphous polystyrene (PS) in the sheath. The fibers undergo cold crystallization at temperatures either below (hard confinement) or above (soft confinement) the glass transition temperature of PS. These conditions are employed to investigate the crystallization behavior of PLLA under multiple confinement types. The electrospinning of PLLA fibers results in the development of coexisting α‐ and α′‐form crystals. The coaxial electrospinning process enhances the extent of chain stretching of PLLA through the PS solution in the outer layer, thereby promoting the close packing of PLLA chains and facilitating the formation of α crystals. Crystallization within soft confinement enables PLLA chains to relax, leading to an increased population of α crystals; this phenomenon is not observed in electrospun single PLLA fibers. A comparison of the crystal parameters in core‐sheath and single PLLA fibers reveals that the crystallite size and the degree of crystallinity are considerably higher in unconfined single PLLA fibers than in confined core‐sheath fibers. The encapsulation of PLLA into the fiber core strongly inhibits the chain movement of PLLA, resulting in a decrease in PLLA crystallizability.
Influence of microbiome in intraprostatic inflammation and prostate cancer
Authors: Prakash Pranav , Verma Shiv , Gupta Sanjay 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundChronic infection and inflammation have been linked to the development of prostate cancer. Dysbiosis of the oral and gut microbiomes and subsequent microbial translocation can lead to pathogenic prostate infections. Microbial‐produced metabolites have also been associated with signaling pathways that promote prostate cancer development. A comprehensive discussion on the mechanisms of microbiome infection and the prostate microenvironment is essential to understand prostate carcinogenesis.MethodsPublished studies were used from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database to conduct a narrative review. No restrictions were applied in the selection of articles.ResultsMicrobiome‐derived short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) have been found to upregulate multiple signaling pathways, including MAPK and PI3K, through IGF‐1 signaling and M2 macrophage polarization. SCFAs can also upregulate Toll‐like receptors, leading to chronic inflammation and the creation of a pro‐prostate cancer environment. Dysbiosis of oral microbiota has been correlated with prostate infection and inflammation. Additionally, pathogenic microbiomes associated with urinary tract infections have shown a link to prostate cancer, with vesicoureteral reflux potentially contributing to prostate infection.ConclusionsThis review offers a comprehensive understanding of the impact of microbial infections linked to intraprostatic inflammation as a causative factor for prostate cancer. Further studies involving the manipulation of the microbiome and its produced metabolites may provide a more complete understanding of the microenvironmental mechanisms that promote prostate carcinogenesis.