bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phytotoxicological assessment of AMD affected river waters in “Sredna Gora”, Bulgaria to Lepidium sativum L.
Authors: Vladimirova Mariya , Kirova Lora , Traykov Ivan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe ongoing pollution of water bodies from decommissioned mines and mining waste facilities in Bulgaria is a serious problem, leading to a contamination of river waters with heavy metals. Although the chemical analyses of acid mine drainage (AMD) affected waters provide information about their toxicity, this information is not enough to evaluate the potential impacts on the biota. For this, different biological responses are used to assess the toxicity of the polluted waters.The goal of the research was to determine the phytotoxicity (usingLepidium sativum) of five affected river waters. The lower reaches of the rivers flow though agricultural areas and are often used for irrigation by local farmers, increasing the chance of produce contamination.The effect of the working solutions on seed germination and primary root growth ofL. sativumwas assessed by the following indices: Relative seed germination (RSG), relative root growth (RRG) and germination index (GI, the product of RSG and RRG).The obtained results have shown the connection between germination/root growth inhibition and concentrations of heavy metals in working solutions, but there is no connection between germination/root growth inhibition and pH levels.
Ameliorative effects of the flavonoid fustin in a rat model of trinitrobenzensulfonic acid-induced colitis
Authors: Eftimov M , Georgieva A , Pavlov D , Todorova M , Reyzov M , Nikolova M , Stefanova N , Tsaneva M , Novakovic M , Tesevic V , Valcheva-Kuzmanova S 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTrinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis is a widely used animal model that mimics the signs and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease. Fustin is a flavonoid found inCotinus coggygria.The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of fustin isolated fromCotinus coggygriaheartwood in a rat model of TNBS-induced colitis.In this experiment, 30 male Wistar rats were used, allocated to three groups: Control, TNBS and TNBS+F10. Colitis was induced by rectal application of TNBS. After the induction of colitis, fustin at a dose of 10 mg/kg was administered orally to TNBS+F10 group in the course of 8 days. Severity of colitis, oxidative stress and inflammation were assessed by macroscopic, histopathological, immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses.Rats from TNBS group demonstrated severe colonic damage. Fustin treatment ameliorated most of the macroscopic and some of the histopathological indices of colonic damage, and restored the activity of the endogenous antioxidant superoxide dismutase in tissue homogenate but did not affect the signs of inflammation measured by the activity of alkaline phosphatase in serum and tissue homogenate, as well as the expression of NF-kB in the colon. In conclusion, the ameliorative effects of fustin in the experimental TNBS-induced colitis might be the result of its antioxidant properties.
Cluster of Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae Infective Endocarditis and Rising Background C. diphtheriae Cases—Seattle, Washington, 2020–2023
Authors: Karmarkar Ellora N , Fitzpatrick Thomas , Himmelfarb Sarah T , Chow Eric J , Smith Hayden Z , Lan Kristine F , Matsumoto Jason , Graff Nicholas R , DeBolt Chas , Truong Thao , Bourassa Lori , Farquhar Carey , Fang Ferric C , Kim H Nina , Pottinger Paul S 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
Nontoxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae, often associated with wounds, can rarely cause infective endocarditis (IE). Five patients with C. diphtheriae IE were identified within 12 months at a Seattle-based hospital system. We reviewed prior C. diphtheriae–positive cultures to determine if detections had increased over time and evaluated epidemiologic trends.

Methods
We conducted a formal electronic health record search to identify all patients aged ≥18 years with C. diphtheriae detected in a clinical specimen (ie, wound, blood, sputum) between 1 September 2020 and 1 April 2023. We collected patient demographics, housing status, comorbidities, substance-use history, and level of medical care required at detection. We extracted laboratory data on susceptibilities of C. diphtheriae isolates and on other pathogens detected at the time of C. diphtheriae identification.

Results
Between 1 September 2020 and 1 April 2023, 44 patients (median age, 44 years) had a C. diphtheriae–positive clinical culture, with most detections occurring after March 2022. Patients were predominantly male (75%), White (66%), unstably housed (77%), and had a lifetime history of injecting drugs (75%). Most C. diphtheriae–positive cultures were polymicrobial, including wound cultures from 36 (82%) patients and blood cultures from 6 (14%) patients, not mutually exclusive. Thirty-four patients (77%), including all 5 patients with C. diphtheriae IE, required hospital admission for C. diphtheriae or a related condition. Of the 5 patients with IE, 3 died of IE and 1 from COVID-19.

Conclusions
Findings suggest a high-morbidity outbreak disproportionately affecting patients who use substances and are unstably housed.
Marginal zone B cells produce ‘natural’ atheroprotective IgM antibodies in a T cell–dependent manner
Authors: Harrison James , Newland Stephen A , Jiang Wei , Giakomidi Despoina , Zhao Xiaohui , Clement Marc , Masters Leanne , Corovic Andrej , Zhang Xian , Drago Fabrizio , Ma Marcella , Ozsvar Kozma Maria , Yasin Froher , Saady Yuta , Kothari Hema , Zhao Tian X , Shi Guo-Ping , McNamara Coleen A , Binder Christoph J , Sage Andrew P , Tarkin Jason M , Mallat Ziad , Nus Meritxell 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Aims
The adaptive immune response plays an important role in atherosclerosis. In response to a high-fat/high-cholesterol (HF/HC) diet, marginal zone B (MZB) cells activate an atheroprotective programme by regulating the differentiation and accumulation of ‘poorly differentiated’ T follicular helper (Tfh) cells. On the other hand, Tfh cells activate the germinal centre response, which promotes atherosclerosis through the production of class-switched high-affinity antibodies. We therefore investigated the direct role of Tfh cells and the role of IL18 in Tfh differentiation in atherosclerosis.

Methods and results
We generated atherosclerotic mouse models with selective genetic deletion of Tfh cells, MZB cells, or IL18 signalling in Tfh cells. Surprisingly, mice lacking Tfh cells had increased atherosclerosis. Lack of Tfh not only reduced class-switched IgG antibodies against oxidation-specific epitopes (OSEs) but also reduced atheroprotective natural IgM-type anti-phosphorylcholine (PC) antibodies, despite no alteration of natural B1 cells. Moreover, the absence of Tfh cells was associated with an accumulation of MZB cells with substantially reduced ability to secrete antibodies. In the same manner, MZB cell deficiency in Ldlr−/− mice was associated with a significant decrease in atheroprotective IgM antibodies, including natural anti-PC IgM antibodies. In humans, we found a positive correlation between circulating MZB-like cells and anti-OSE IgM antibodies. Finally, we identified an important role for IL18 signalling in HF/HC diet–induced Tfh.

Conclusion
Our findings reveal a previously unsuspected role of MZB cells in regulating atheroprotective ‘natural’ IgM antibody production in a Tfh-dependent manner, which could have important pathophysiological and therapeutic implications.
Qualitative analysis of UK women’s attitudes to calorie-based alcohol marketing and alcohol calorie labelling
Authors: Atkinson Amanda M , Meadows Beth R , Hobin Erin , Vanderlee Lana Mae , Sumnall Harry 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Mandatory standardized nutritional information on alcoholic drinks such as energy, or calorie labelling, is a population-level public health measure aimed at addressing obesity and alcohol consumption. In the UK, such measures are not a statutory requirement, but some alcohol brands do include references to calories on their products and in their marketing materials, as a marketing strategy to encourage sales and consumption. This article presents findings of semi-structured individual (N = 43) and group (N = 9) interviews with 78 women living in the UK that aimed to gain insight into their attitudes towards calorie-based alcohol brand marketing, and alcohol calorie labelling (ACL) as a health policy. Three themes are presented that outline how women rejected calorie marketing and labelling; the potential positive and unintended impact on alcohol consumption and dietary/eating practices; and how views on calorie labelling were intertwined with women’s attitudes towards marketing that draws on calorie messaging. A feminist anti-diet discourse, as well as a discourse of pleasure through alcohol consumption, was at play in women’s accounts, which may limit the intended aims of ACLs. It is concluded that ACLs should be considered within the wider commercial context of alcohol marketing that draws on calories to promote sales and consumption, consideration of the gendered factors that may lead some to reject ACLs as a health policy, and the potential for unintended consequences.
The contribution of Dutch municipalities to stimulate smoke-free outdoor sports clubs: a qualitative study
Authors: Smit Rixt A , Rozema Andrea D , van de Goor Ien A M , Kunst Anton E 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Local governments may play a key role in making outdoor sports clubs smoke free. This study aims to assess the activities, motives, challenges and strategies of Dutch municipalities regarding stimulating outdoor sports clubs to become smoke free. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 policy officers of different municipalities in the Netherlands. The included municipalities varied in terms of region, population size and degree of urbanization. Data were analyzed using content analysis. Municipalities stimulated sports clubs to become smoke free by providing information and support and, to a lesser extent, by using financial incentives. Motives of municipalities varied from facilitating a healthy living environment for youth, responding to denormalization of smoking and aligning with goals formulated in national prevention policy. Policy officers faced several challenges, including limited capacity and funds, a reluctance to interfere with sports clubs and little support within the municipal organization. These challenges were addressed by employing various strategies such as embedding smoke-free sports in a broader preventive policy, setting a good example by creating outdoor smoke-free areas around municipal buildings, and collaborating with stakeholders in the municipality to join forces in realizing smoke-free sports clubs. Municipalities demonstrated evident motivation to contribute to a smoke-free sports environment. Currently, most municipalities fulfil an informative and supportive role, while some municipalities still explore their role and position in relation to supporting sports clubs to become smoke free. Other municipalities have established, according to them, effective strategies.
The (Self-Similar, Variational) Rolling Stones
Authors: Langharst Dylan , Ulivelli Jacopo 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The interplay between variational functionals and the Brunn–Minkowski Theory is a well-established phenomenon widely investigated in the last thirty years. In this work, we prove the existence of solutions to the even logarithmic Minkowski problems arising from variational functionals, such as the first eigenvalue of the Laplacian and the torsional rigidity. In particular, we lay down a blueprint showing that the same result holds for more generic functionals by adapting the volume case from Böröczky, Lutwak, Yang, and Zhang. We show how these results imply the existence of self-similar solutions to variational flow problems à la Firey’s worn stone problem.
Influence of RNA circularity on Target RNA-Directed MicroRNA Degradation
Authors: Fuchs Wightman Federico , Lukin Jerónimo , Giusti Sebastián A , Soutschek Michael , Bragado Laureano , Pozzi Berta , Pierelli María L , González Paula , Fededa Juan P , Schratt Gerhard , Fujiwara Rina , Wilusz Jeremy E , Refojo Damián , de la Mata Manuel 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A subset of circular RNAs (circRNAs) and linear RNAs have been proposed to ‘sponge’ or block microRNA activity. Additionally, certain RNAs induce microRNA destruction through the process of Target RNA-Directed MicroRNA Degradation (TDMD), but whether both linear and circular transcripts are equivalent in driving TDMD is unknown. Here, we studied whether circular/linear topology of endogenous and artificial RNA targets affects TDMD. Consistent with previous knowledge that Cdr1as (ciRS-7) circular RNA protects miR-7 from Cyrano-mediated TDMD, we demonstrate that depletion of Cdr1as reduces miR-7 abundance. In contrast, overexpression of an artificial linear version of Cdr1as drives miR-7 degradation. Using plasmids that express a circRNA with minimal co-expressed cognate linear RNA, we show differential effects on TDMD that cannot be attributed to the nucleotide sequence, as the TDMD properties of a sequence often differ when in a circular versus linear form. By analysing RNA sequencing data of a neuron differentiation system, we further detect potential effects of circRNAs on microRNA stability. Our results support the view that RNA circularity influences TDMD, either enhancing or inhibiting it on specific microRNAs.
RNA-binding properties orchestrate TDP-43 homeostasis through condensate formation in vivo
Authors: Scherer Natalie M , Maurel Cindy , Graus Matthew S , McAlary Luke , Richter Grant , Radford Rowan A W , Hogan Alison , Don Emily K , Lee Albert , Yerbury Justin , Francois Mathias , Chung Roger S , Morsch Marco 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Insoluble cytoplasmic aggregate formation of the RNA-binding protein TDP-43 is a major hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. TDP-43 localizes predominantly in the nucleus, arranging itself into dynamic condensates through liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS). Mutations and post-translational modifications can alter the condensation properties of TDP-43, contributing to the transition of liquid-like biomolecular condensates into solid-like aggregates. However, to date it has been a challenge to study the dynamics of this process in vivo. We demonstrate through live imaging that human TDP-43 undergoes nuclear condensation in spinal motor neurons in a living animal. RNA-binding deficiencies as well as post-translational modifications can lead to aberrant condensation and altered TDP-43 compartmentalization. Single-molecule tracking revealed an altered mobility profile for RNA-binding deficient TDP-43. Overall, these results provide a critically needed in vivo characterization of TDP-43 condensation, demonstrate phase separation as an important regulatory mechanism of TDP-43 accessibility, and identify a molecular mechanism of how functional TDP-43 can be regulated.
Structure of native four-repeat satellite III sequence with non-canonical base interactions
Authors: Chen Erin , Trajkovski Marko , Lee Hyun Kyung , Nyovanie Samantha , Martin Kailey N , Dean William L , Tahiliani Mamta , Plavec Janez , Yatsunyk Liliya A 
Published: February 2024

AbstractTandem-repetitive DNA (where two or more DNA bases are repeated numerous times) can adopt non-canonical secondary structures. Many of these structures are implicated in important biological processes. Human Satellite III (HSat3) is enriched for tandem repeats of the sequence ATGGA and is located in pericentromeric heterochromatin in many human chromosomes. Here, we investigate the secondary structure of the four-repeat HSat3 sequence 5′-ATGGA ATGGA ATGGA ATGGA-3′ using X-ray crystallography, NMR, and biophysical methods. Circular dichroism spectroscopy, thermal stability, native PAGE, and analytical ultracentrifugation indicate that this sequence folds into a monomolecular hairpin with non-canonical base pairing and B-DNA characteristics at concentrations below 0.9 mM. NMR studies at 0.05–0.5 mM indicate that the hairpin is likely folded-over into a compact structure with high dynamics. Crystallographic studies at 2.5 mM reveal an antiparallel self-complementary duplex with the same base pairing as in the hairpin, extended into an infinite polymer. The non-canonical base pairing includes a G–G intercalation sandwiched by sheared A–G base pairs, leading to a cross-strand four guanine stack, so called guanine zipper. The guanine zippers are spaced throughout the structure by A–T/T–A base pairs. Our findings lend further insight into recurring structural motifs associated with the HSat3 and their potential biological functions.
Proprietary interests and knowing receipt: Byers v Saudi National Bank [2023] UKSC 51
Authors: Purewal Anita 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The long-awaited Supreme Court ruling in Byers v Saudi National Bank has provided a welcomed judgment on an established claim in equity and trusts law, knowing receipt. The judgment not only provides guidance on an issue which has never been directly addressed at the Supreme Court level before, namely whether a continuing proprietary interest is needed for a successful claim in knowing receipt, but also provides much-needed clarification on the underlying basis and application of knowing receipt claims moving forwards, guidance that will be renowned for years to come.
Candidate Kidney Protective Strategies for Patients Undergoing Major Abdominal Surgery: A Secondary Analysis of the RELIEF Trial Cohort
Authors: McIlroy David R. , Feng Xiaoke , Shotwell Matthew , Wallace Sophia , Bellomo Rinaldo , Garg Amit X. , Leslie Kate , Peyton Philip , Story David , Myles Paul S. 
Published: February 2024

Background
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is common after major abdominal surgery. Selection of candidate kidney protective strategies for testing in large trials should be based on robust preliminary evidence.

Methods
A secondary analysis of the Restrictive versus Liberal Fluid Therapy in Major Abdominal Surgery (RELIEF) trial was conducted in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery and randomly assigned to a restrictive or liberal perioperative fluid regimen. The primary outcome was maximum AKI stage before hospital discharge. Two multivariable ordinal regression models were developed to test the primary hypothesis that modifiable risk factors associated with increased maximum stage of postoperative AKI could be identified. Each model used a separate approach to variable selection to assess the sensitivity of the findings to modeling approach. For model 1, variable selection was informed by investigator opinion; for model 2, the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) technique was used to develop a data-driven model from available variables.

Results
Of 2,444 patients analyzed, stage 1, 2, and 3 AKI occurred in 223 (9.1%), 59 (2.4%), and 36 (1.5%) patients, respectively. In multivariable modeling by model 1, administration of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, intraoperatively only (odds ratio, 1.77 [99% CI, 1.11 to 2.82]), and preoperative day-of-surgery administration of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker compared to no regular use (odds ratio, 1.84 [99% CI, 1.15 to 2.94]) were associated with increased odds for greater maximum stage AKI. These results were unchanged in model 2, with the additional finding of an inverse association between nadir hemoglobin concentration on postoperative day 1 and greater maximum stage AKI.

Conclusions
Avoiding intraoperative nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors is a potential strategy to mitigate the risk for postoperative AKI. The findings strengthen the rationale for a clinical trial comprehensively testing the risk–benefit ratio of these drugs in the perioperative period.

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Treatment of large femoral and tibial bone defects with Plate-assisted Bone Segment Transport (PABST)
Authors: Freischmidt Holger , Guehring Thorsten , Thomé Patrick , Armbruster Jonas , Reiter Gregor , Grützner Paul Alfred , Nolte Philip-Christian 
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES:
The purposes of this study were to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes following Plate-assisted Bone Segment Transport (PABST) in large bone defects of the lower extremities.

METHODS:

Design:
Retrospective study of prospectively collected data.

Setting:
Level-1 trauma center located in Germany.

Patient Selection Criteria:
Patients who underwent PABST and were at least one year postoperatively were included.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons:
Demographic data were collected. Radiographic apparent bone gap (RABG), time to consolidation, as well as time to full weight bearing and consolidation index were calculated. Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and complications were assessed.

RESULTS:
Fifteen patients (13 male; mean age 51 years [range, 20-75]) underwent PABST and had follow-up at a mean of 29.1 months. The tibia was affected in 8 and the femur in 7 patients. Preoperative RABG was 60 mm (IQR: 40-125) and bone defects were caused by septic non-unions in 73%. Fourteen patients (93%) demonstrated consolidated transport callus at 7.3 months (95%CI: 6-8.5) and nine patients (60%) demonstrated complete consolidation of both docking site and transport callus at 11.5 months (95%CI: 7.3-15.3). Postoperative RABG was 0.1mm (IQR: 0-0.8), consolidation index was 1.9 months/cm (95%CI: 1.3-2.5). All patients achieved full weight-bearing at 8.7 months (IQR:6.5-10.3). LEFS was 42 (95%CI: 34-50) and NRS was 3 (95%CI: 2-4). Patients treated for tibial defects had a significantly higher consolidation rate compared to patients treated for femoral defects (p=.040).

CONCLUSIONS:
PABST demonstrated high consolidation of transport callus with few complications. Although full weight-bearing was achieved in all patients, complete consolidation of the docking site was only present in 60% of cases.

Level of Evidence:
Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.