bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different surgical interventions for unstable intertrochanteric fracture of the femur: Network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Yuqiao , Zhang Xiufang , Wei Yun , Xu Yuhao , Feng Min , Wang Chunlin
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Although a large body of evidence has reported on surgical approaches for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures, studies that comprehensively evaluate treatment outcomes are limited. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of extramedullary fixation (i.e., dynamic hip screw [DHS]), intramedullary fixation (i.e., the proximal femoral nailing [PFN]), and hemiarthroplasty (HA) for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric femoral fractures using network meta-analysis.

Methods:

This study meets the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses criteria. The Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome search protocol framework was used to search the Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception until June 2023.

Results:

A total of 15 randomized controlled trials, including 1282 patients were analyzed. The Harris hip score (HHS) after DHS fixation was the lowest compared with that of PFN fixation and HA. DHS fixation had a significantly longer operation time than that of PFN fixation. Compared with HA, a lower incidence of superficial wound infection was observed with PFN and DHS fixations. PFN was significantly more likely to be implant cut out compared with HA. Compared with DHS, PFN and HA showed a lower incidence of fracture healing malunion.

Conclusion:

HA and PFN have good efficacy in improving the HHS and preventing joint deformities. However, HA showed a higher incidence of superficial infection than that observed with PFN, whereas a higher risk of screw cutout is observed with PFN than with HA.
Mendelian randomization analysis of the causal relationship between serum metabolites and thoracic aortic aneurysm
Authors: Tong Xiaoshan , Cui Yu
Published: September 2024

Thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) is associated with changes in the levels of metabolites; however, the exact causal relationships remain unclear. Identifying this complex relationship may provide new insights into the pathogenesis of TAA. We used genome-wide association studies to investigate the relationship between metabolites and TAA in this study. A total of 1400 serum metabolites were investigated for their potential causal effects on the risk of TAA. We performed bidirectional and 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using 5 MR tests: MR-Egger, weighted mode, weighted median, inverse variance weighted (IVW), and simple mode. We also performed sensitivity analysis to verify our findings, including heterogeneity analysis using IVW and MR-Egger tests and pleiotropy analysis using the MR-Egger test. Multiple metabolites were identified as having a causal effect on the risk of TAA, particularly those related to lipid metabolites; the top 2 risk factors identified using the IVW test were 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-pentyl-2-furanpropionate (P = .019) and 5alpha-androstan-3alpha,17alpha-diol (P = .021), whereas the 2 top protective factors were 1-stearoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-gpc (P = .023) and 1-oleoyl-2-docosahexaenoyl-GPC (P = .005). Sensitivity analysis verified the lack of heterogeneity (P = .499, .584, .232, and .624, respectively; IVW test) or pleiotropy (P = .621, .483, .598, and .916, respectively; Egger test). Our study provides new evidence of a causal relationship between metabolites and the risk of TAA, thus providing new insights into the pathogenesis of this disease. These findings suggest a promising approach for metabolite-based therapeutic interventions.
Causal relationship between neuroticism and bone mineral density: A univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Shangtong , Zhong Jing , Chen Yueping , Zhang Xiaoyun , Huang Chuanhong , Chen Feng
Published: September 2024

Recent observational studies have indicated that psychiatric disorders were associated with risk of bone mineral density (BMD) reduction. But the causal relationship between neuroticism and BMD remained unclear. By using public genome-wide association study data, a 2-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed to investigate the causal relationship between neuroticism and BMD (heel BMD, forearm BMD, femoral neck BMD, lumbar spine BMD, and total body BMD). Inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, and MR-Egger were used to assess the causal effects. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the potential bias of the causal estimates. Multivariable MR analysis was used to assess the direct causal effects of neuroticism on BMD with adjustment of common risk factors of BMD reduction. Univariable MR analysis indicated that genetically predicted higher neuroticism was significantly associated with an increased risk of heel BMD reduction (inverse-variance weighted β = −0.039; se = 0.01; P = .0001; Bonferroni-corrected P = .0005) but not with other BMD (forearm BMD, femoral neck BMD, lumbar spine BMD, and total body BMD) potentially due to limited statistical power. The causal effects remained significant after accounting for the effects of body mass index, smoking, and drinking. Genetic proxy for higher neuroticism was significantly associated with an increased risk of heel BMD reduction. Further studies were warranted to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms and explore the potential application in disease early screening and management.
Exploring the mechanism of action of Bidens pilosa L. in combating hepatic fibrosis through network pharmacology and molecular docking: An observational study
Authors: Zhao Jie , Wang Mei , Yu Qing , Zhan Sanhua , Mao Mingyang
Published: September 2024

Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking methods, to explore the possible targets and mechanisms of Bidens pilosa L. in treatment of liver fibrosis. The TCMSP, GeneCard, OMIM, TTD and DrugBank databases were used to obtain the targets of Bidens pilosa L and liver fibrosis, than the intersection targets were screened out by Venny 2.1.0, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and the core targets were obtained by the STRING database. Use Cytoscape3.7.2 software to draw the “traditional Chinese medicine-component-target-disease” network. The DAVID database platform was explored to analyze the biological process and pathway, and predict the anti-liver fibrosis mechanism of Bidens pilosa L. AutoDock and PyMol were used to verify the molecular docking between the active ingredients of Bidens pilosa L. and the core targets. Six active components of Bidens pilosa L. and 106 intersection targets were screened. PIK3R1, HSP90AA1, SRC, TP53, AKT1, RELA and other core targets were screened by PPI network analysis. The results of GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the anti-liver fibrosis of Bidens pilosa L mainly involved in the regulation and negative regulation of apoptosis process, positive regulation of protein kinase B signal transduction, positive regulation of cell migration and other biological processes. Pathways acting on cancer, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, lipids and atherosclerosis, PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway and other signaling pathways. Molecular docking showed that the active components of Bidens pilosa L. displayed good binding activity with core target proteins, and the average binding energy was −7.47 kcal/mol. The possible mechanism of the active components against liver fibrosis is to regulate the PI3K-AKT, MAPK, and other signaling pathways by acting on core targets such as PIK3R1, HSP90AA1, SRC, TP53, AKT1, RELA, and induce the apoptosis of activated HSC cells to reverse and improve liver fibrosis.
Generative Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Hawk Heather , Coriasco Michael , Jones Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Understanding the functionality, benefits, and limitations of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is important for nurses and nursing students.

Purpose:

This study explored nursing students’ perspectives on GAI after a guided learning activity in which students used a chatbot to answer a clinical question.

Methods:

A qualitative approach using reflective thematic analysis of written reflections was conducted with 19 nursing students in a nursing baccalaureate completion program.

Results:

Student reflections demonstrated 4 themes: surprisingly familiar; the importance of critical thinking and external validation; a good summary lacking depth and nuance; and cautious optimism. Two subthemes were also identified: validation is time-consuming and a new perspective.

Conclusions:

Learning activities using GAI influence students’ knowledge and attitudes and instill critical awareness of the advantages and limitations of this technology. Additional emphasis on bias in GAI is needed when teaching about AI.
360° Video Simulation Scenario for the WHO Global Patient Safety Challenge “Medication Without Harm”
Authors: Sousa Vitória Talya Dos Santos , Fernandes Ellen da Silva , Costa Edmara Chaves , Moura Jose Ricardo Sousa Ayres de , Melo Emanuella Silva Joventino , Carvalho Rhanna Emanuela Fontenele Lima de , Ríos Manuel Pardo , Vasconcelos Patrícia Freire de
Published: September 2024

Background:

High-quality video productions integrating 360° simulations of real-life nursing scenarios, though still emerging and relatively rare, have shown promise in enriching learning experiences and refining students’ competencies, attitudes, and knowledge.

Purpose:

To develop a 360° video simulation scenario for teaching medication safety in nursing.

Methods:

The methodological framework comprised 3 key stages: (1) crafting the script; (2) scrutinizing the script’s validity through evaluation by expert judges in medication administration; and (3) developing the set, filming scenes, and refining the video using a 360° camera.

Results:

All evaluated elements garnered substantial concurrence among the expert panel. After script validation, the video script underwent refinement and validation by expert judges. The 360° video was tailored for utilization with virtual reality glasses, rendering it accessible for integration into nursing education curricula.

Conclusions:

The final version consisted of a continuous scene that ended with a question that prompted the identification of errors.
A pilot study of South African oncology pharmacy facilities: Comparison with best practice guidelines
Authors: Botha Ruan , Nelson Gill , Brouwer Derk
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Exposure to antineoplastic drugs can lead to adverse health effects such as fetal loss and DNA damage. Oncology pharmacy facilities should implement best pharmacy practice guidelines to protect pharmacy personnel. The objective of this study was to assess South African oncology pharmacy facility workplace and personnel work practices, guided by internationally accepted best practice guidelines.

Methods:

A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted in 6 oncology pharmacy facilities (one personnel member per facility) of 2 South African oncology pharmacy service providers. Using a simple checklist, comprising 7 assessment categories and 43 questions derived from best practice guidelines, work and workplace practices were scored as compliant, partially compliant, or noncompliant. Each facility and service provider were also given an overall score.

Results:

Overall scores for the 6 facilities ranged from 33.1% to 79.3%. Service provider 2 pharmacy facilities (which were assessed as being compliant overall) scored higher at 78.0% ± 1.5 (76.4%–79.3%) than service provider 1 pharmacy facilities, which were noncompliant overall at 40.2% ± 21.5 (33.1%–49.9%). Categories in which performance was poor included the presence of engineering controls, use of personal protective equipment, and medical monitoring.

Conclusion:

The complexities of South African oncology pharmacy facilities highlight the need for stricter regulation. Despite operating under the auspices of managed care organizations, some facilities' work practices were poor. It is recommended that service providers implement international best practice guidelines.
D2-40 and CK17 Immunohistochemistry as a Diagnostic Adjunct for HPV-Independent Squamous Lesions in the Vulva and Their Role in Defining Atypical Lichen Sclerosus
Authors: Hartsough Emily M. , Watkins Jaclyn , Nazarian Rosalynn M.
Published: September 2024

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) is a common, chronic inflammatory disorder with a subset of cases progressing to differentiated vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (dVIN) and/or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Histopathologic diagnosis of LS and dVIN can be challenging, and it is difficult to predict the subset of LS cases that progress. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) may be a useful diagnostic aid in this setting. CK17 has been shown to be overexpressed in invasive SCC and dVIN, and less commonly in LS. Similar to CK17, D2-40 has been correlated with cutaneous SCC prognosis but has not been evaluated in vulvar lesions. We identified a total of 13 patients with HPV-independent vulvar SCC that had precursor LS or dVIN. CK17 and D2-40 IHC stain intensity and pattern was scored in foci of LS, dVIN, and SCC. An increase in basal layer D2-40 expression was observed with progression from LS to dVIN with strong and diffuse staining in SCC. CK17 maintained similar stain intensity among squamous lesions, but displayed different patterns of staining, with superficial staining in LS, suprabasal staining in dVIN, and diffuse staining in SCC. A subset of LS cases displayed an intermediate (suprabasal) CK17 IHC profile, wild-type p53 expression, and cytomorphologic and architectural features intermediate between LS and dVIN; we defined such cases as “atypical LS.” We found that a panel of D2-40/CK17 can serve as a diagnostic adjunct to differentiate LS, dVIN, and invasive SCC. Additional studies with larger patient cohorts are needed to validate these findings and determine their prognostic significance.
Qualitative Research on the Causes of Kinesiophobia in Postoperative Cerebellar Tumor Patients
Authors: Xu Xin , Wang Wei , Feng Xiuqin
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To understand the causes of kinesiophobia in postoperative patients with cerebellar tumors, and to provide the basis for early rehabilitation regimen.

Methods:

Using the objective sampling method, 16 postoperative cerebellar tumor patients were extracted for semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed using the Colaizzi 7-step method, and the theme was refined.

Results:

The causes of kinesiophobia in postoperative cerebellar tumor patients were summarized into 4 themes: Excessive vigilance to self-state. Increased pain sensitivity and fear of dizziness were regarded as threat signals, which brought excessive burden on the current therapeutic regimen. Uncertainty of early rehabilitation. Lack of cognition, uncertainty effect of early rehabilitation, and insufficient exercise of self-efficacy. Psychological stress and avoidant emotion. Economic pressure and avoidant emotion ran out of control. Vulnerable support system. Deficient in professional technique, family, and social support.

Conclusion:

The kinesiophobia in postoperative cerebellar tumor patients is composed of multiple factors. Medical staff are supposed to help patients establish a correct perception of disease status. The information on early rehabilitation needs to be transmitted continually. To promote patients to participate in early rehabilitation activities energetically, it is vital to keep a high level of rehabilitation effect expectation, increased self-exercise efficiency, psychological intervention, and strong multi-party cooperation in an improved social support system.
The Incidence and Morphology of Deformational Plagiocephaly in Unicoronal Synostosis
Authors: Kwon Hyok Jun , Deek Roland , Farmer Lachlan D.M. , Moore Mark H.
Published: September 2024

It has been our observation that unicoronal synostosis and deformational plagiocephaly (DP) are not mutually exclusive. The incidence and phenotypical manifestations of a patient presenting with both conditions have not been studied previously. The authors performed a retrospective review of patients presenting with unicoronal synostosis, examining their 3DCT scans for the presence of DP and assessing their endocranial and orbital morphology. The authors found that 38.4% of patients with unicoronal synostosis also have DP. Ipsilateral DP is less common than contralateral DP, but these patients tend to have a delayed presentation due to a reduction in forehead asymmetry corresponding to the parallelogram deformity. Regardless, DP has no impact on the endocranial nor orbital morphology in unicoronal synostosis.
Auricular Reconstruction With Ultra-Short Dental Implant-retained Prosthesis: A Case Report on Virtual Planning Software and 3D Surgical Guides
Authors: Song Gun , Park Ji-su , Jung Seunggon
Published: September 2024

Auricular reconstruction in traumatic patients needs a more diverse and in-depth approach as the graft site may not be available for autologous graft. The implant-retained auricular prosthesis has shown satisfying outcomes for those patients who have lost their auricle due to congenital or acquired reasons. When osseointegrated auricular implants are not available, dental implant and implant-planning software can provide safe, reliable, and predictable outcomes. In this case, a 30-year-old patient who lost the right auricle due to trauma underwent auricular reconstruction with implant retained prosthesis by using an ultra-short dental implant and surgical guide which was prefabricated virtually with dental implant software.
Impact Assessment of the “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode” on Enhancing the Efficacy of Alveolar Surgery Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Yin Tingting , Sun Huan , Tang Rong , Li Qiaowen , Zheng Jin , Feng Yi , Wang Li
Published: September 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of the “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode” on improving the efficacy of alveolar surgery and the effectiveness of nursing.

Methods:

A total of 200 patients were recruited from the oral and maxillofacial surgery outpatient department at the School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, between November and December 2023. These patients were allocated into 2 groups: a control group and an experimental group. The treatment for these groups involved different combinations of physicians and nurses, including doctors A and B, and nurses A, B, and C. In November 2023, doctor A treated 50 patients with the assistance of nurses A and C under the “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode,” while another 50 patients were treated by doctor A with the assistance of nurse A following the “Four-Handed Operation Mode.” In December 2023, doctor B treated 50 patients with the assistance of nurse B under the “Four-Handed Operation Mode,” and another 50 patients were treated by doctor B with the assistance of nurses B and C using the “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode.” Patient visit durations were documented, and patient satisfaction with diagnostic and treatment services was evaluated via a questionnaire survey.

Results:

In comparison to the “Four-Handed Operation Mode,” the “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode” resulted in a 27% reduction in patient visit times and an improvement in patient satisfaction with nursing services.

Conclusions:

The “4+1 Nursing Operation Mode” surpasses the “Four-Handed Operation Mode” in terms of efficiency. It not only reduces patient visit times and enhances doctor work efficiency but also improves patient satisfaction with nursing services.
Assessment of the Correlation Between Types of Orbital Fractures and Ocular Symptoms, and the Effect of Manual Preformed and Patient-Specific Mesh Implants: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhao Zhihao , Guo Zeyou , Hu Wenzhong , Long Jie
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Although certain orbital fractures are associated with specific clinical symptoms, these relationships should be reviewed comprehensively. The optimal choice between manual preformed mesh implants (MPIs) and patient-specific mesh implants (PSIs) for orbital reconstruction remains undetermined due to inconclusive evidence regarding their effectiveness.

Methods:

This retrospective study investigated 280 patients with unilateral orbital fractures to explore the correlation between clinical ocular symptoms, including diplopia, enophthalmos, limitation of ocular movement, blindness, and the specific type of orbital fracture. The effects on orbital volume (OV) and orbital volume ratio (OVR) of MPI and PSI with and without the use of navigation were also evaluated in this study. Patients were categorized into 4 groups: MPI, PSI, navigation-assisted MPI, and navigation-assisted PSI. After this categorization, alterations in OV and OVR were analyzed before and after surgical intervention.

Results:

Significant correlations were observed between the orbital fracture type and diplopia, enophthalmos, and limitation of ocular movement (P < 0.05). Patients in the MPI group exhibited a notable difference in the postoperative OV between the injured and normal sides (P < 0.05), but no statistically significant difference was found in the postoperative OV between the injured and normal sides among the patients in the other 3 groups (P > 0.05). Moreover, the MPI group demonstrated significantly higher postoperative OVR than the other groups (P < 0.05). Notably, PSI remained effective with or without navigation, MPI combined with navigation technology achieved a reconstruction quality similar to that of PSI by rectifying positioning errors during surgery.

Conclusion:

The authors found significant correlations (P < 0.05) between orbital fracture type and diplopia, enophthalmos, and limitations of ocular movement. Patient-specific mesh implant plays an important role in orbital reconstruction. It is also a good method for reconstructing orbital fractures using MPI assisted by navigation technology.
Poor Prognostic Factors in Long-Term Survivors of Resected Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Javed Ammar A. , Rompen Ingmar F. , van Goor Iris W.J.M. , Stoop Thomas F. , Andel Paul , Mahmud Omar , Fatimi Asad Saulat , Habib Joseph R. , Mughal Nabiha A. , Schouten Thijs , Lafaro Kelly , Burkhart Richard A. , Burns William R. , Santvoort Hjalmar C. van , Dulk Marcel den , Daams Freek , Mieog J. Sven D , Stommel Martijn W. J. , Patijn Gijs A. , Hingh Ignace de , Festen Sebastiaan , Nijkamp Maarten W. , Klaase Joost M. , Lips Daan J. , Wijsman Jan H. , Harst Erwin van der , Manusama Eric , Eijck Casper H J van , Koerkamp Bas Groot , Kazemier Geert , Busch Olivier R. , Molenaar I. Quintus , Daamen Lois A. , He Jin , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Besselink Marc G. ,   for the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group and the PANC-PALS Consortium
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To measure the rate of LTS in resected PDAC and determine the association between predictors of OS and LTS.

Summary Background Data:

Long-term survival (>5 y, LTS) remains rare in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Multiple predictors of overall survival (OS) are known but their association with LTS remains unclear.

Methods:

An international, multicenter retrospective study was conducted. Included were patients from 2012-2019 with resected PDAC. Excluded were those with metastases at diagnosis or resection, R2 resections, and 90-day mortality. Predictors of OS were identified using multivariable Cox regression and their prevalence in patients with LTS assessed. LTS was calculated by excluding patients with shorter follow-up and predictors of LTS were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

3,003 patients were included (27.4% received neoadjuvant chemotherapy). Elevated baseline CA19-9, high tumor grade, nodal disease, and perineural and lymphovascular invasion were negative independent predictors of OS, while receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy predicted improved OS (all P<0.05). LTS was observed in 220/2,436 patients (9.0%), of whom 198 (90%) harbored poor prognostic factors: elevated baseline CA19-9 (58.1%), poor tumor differentiation (51.0%), nodal disease (46.8%), and perineural invasion (76.0%). Of those without any of these four features, 50.0% achieved LTS as compared to 21.3%, 13.3%, 5.2%, and 3.5% in those with 1, 2, 3, or 4 features.

Conclusions:

This bi-national cohort demonstrates a true LTS rate of 9.0% in resected PDAC. Clinicians should remain aware that presence of poor prognostic factors does not preclude LTS.
Gastrostomy management by the nursing team in a hospital in São Paulo, Brazil: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Vicente Michele Coelho , Sanches Mariana Bucci , Fabri Jeferson Castelani , Cunha Gilmar Faustino da , Carvalho Leonardo de Souza , Püschel Vilanice Alves de Araujo
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The efficient and effective management of gastrostomy patients should be based on best practices.

Objective:

This project aimed to improve gastrostomy management in a semi-intensive care unit of a private hospital in São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods:

This study followed the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework. The JBI approach to evidence implementation is grounded in an audit, feedback, and re-audit strategy. A baseline audit was conducted to measure current practices against recommended best practices. Feedback from the audit was used to identify barriers and design implement strategies to improve practice. A follow-up audit was then conducted to measure changes in compliance with best practices.

Results:

The baseline audit involved an evaluation of 33 nurses and 90 nursing technicians, as well as 10 gastrostomy patients. The follow-up audit evaluated 37 nurses and 80 nursing technicians, as well as 10 gastrostomy patients. The follow-up audit revealed that compliance increased to 90% for three of the eight criteria. For the remainder, it varied between 20% and 50%.

Conclusion:

The baseline audit and feedback strategy led to improved compliance in five of the eight criteria. Future audits will be necessary to maintain these results.

Spanish abstract:

http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A259
Supersize me: hypotheses on torpor-assisted prehibernation fattening in a boreal bat
Authors: Fjelldal Mari A. , Fritzén Niclas R. , Suominen Kati M. , Lilley Thomas M.
Published: September 2024

Hibernators face an energetic dilemma in the autumn at northern latitudes; while temperatures and food availability decrease, hibernating species need to build fat deposits to survive the winter. During this critical fattening phase, insectivorous boreal bats use torpor to build and conserve their reserves. However, we still know little about temporal variability in torpor use employed by bats during the prehibernation fattening period and how decreasing temperatures and food availability in combination with increasing individual body mass impact this. Here, we present two general hypotheses for explaining temporal torpor patterns observed in a boreal bat (
Eptesicus nilssonii
), in which torpor use (i) facilitates rapid mass gain or (ii) conserves stored body mass. Although temporally separated in our dataset, data on temperature, insect abundance and body mass throughout the prehibernation period indicate that
E. nilssonii
reaches the majority of its overwintering mass before the onset of increasing daytime and night-time torpor use. In combination with low food availability by this point in time, these observations suggest torpor expression may be intended to conserve gained reserves rather than facilitate mass gain. Our study is intended as a first proof of concept for disentangling temporal drivers of torpor in bats during the prehibernation fattening phase.
Addictive manipulation: a perspective on the role of reproductive parasitism in the evolution of bacteria–eukaryote symbioses
Authors: Castelli Michele , Nardi Tiago , Giovannini Michele , Sassera Davide
Published: September 2024

Wolbachia
bacteria encompass noteworthy reproductive manipulators of their arthropod hosts. which influence host reproduction to favour their own transmission, also exploiting toxin–antitoxin systems. Recently, multiple other bacterial symbionts of arthropods have been shown to display comparable manipulative capabilities. Here, we wonder whether such phenomena are truly restricted to arthropod hosts. We focused on protists, primary models for evolutionary investigations on eukaryotes due to their diversity and antiquity, but still overall under-investigated. After a thorough re-examination of the literature on bacterial–protist interactions with this question in mind, we conclude that such bacterial ‘addictive manipulators’ of protists do exist, are probably widespread, and have been overlooked until now as a consequence of the fact that investigations are commonly host-centred, thus ineffective to detect such behaviour. Additionally, we posit that toxin–antitoxin systems are crucial in these phenomena of addictive manipulation of protists, as a result of recurrent evolutionary repurposing. This indicates intriguing functional analogy and molecular homology with plasmid–bacterial interplays. Finally, we remark that multiple addictive manipulators are affiliated with specific bacterial lineages with ancient associations with diverse eukaryotes. This suggests a possible role of addictive manipulation of protists in paving the way to the evolution of bacteria associated with multicellular organisms.
Novel rebreathing adaptation extends dive time in a semi-aquatic lizard
Authors: Swierk Lindsey
Published: September 2024

Bubble use evolved in many small invertebrates to enable underwater respiration, but, until recently, there has been no evidence that vertebrate animals use bubbles in a similar manner. Only one group of vertebrates, semi-aquatic
Anolis
lizards, may be an exception: these lizards dive underwater when threatened and, while underwater, rebreathe a bubble of air over their nostrils. Although it seems that rebreathing should be adaptive, possibly functioning to extend the time that lizards remain in underwater refugia, this has not been empirically tested. Here, I demonstrate that rebreathing serves to extend dive time in a semi-aquatic anole,
Anolis aquaticus
. I prevented the formation of normal rebreathing bubbles by applying a commercial emollient on the skin surface where bubbles form to assess the impact of bubbles on rebreathing cycles, gular pumps, and dive times. Lizards that were allowed to rebreathe normally remained underwater an average of 32% longer than those with impaired rebreathing, suggesting a functional role of rebreathing in underwater respiration. Unlike rebreathing, gular pumping was unaffected by treatment and may warrant further research regarding its role in supplementing underwater respiration. This study provides evidence that vertebrates can use bubbles to respire underwater and raises questions about adaptive mechanisms and potential bio-inspired applications.
Can calmodulin bind to lipids of the cytosolic leaflet of plasma membranes?
Authors: Scollo Federica , Tempra Carmelo , Evci Hüseyin , Riopedre-Fernandez Miguel , Olżyńska Agnieszka , Javanainen Matti , Uday Arunima , Cebecauer Marek , Cwiklik Lukasz , Martinez-Seara Hector , Jungwirth Pavel , Jurkiewicz Piotr , Hof Martin
Published: September 2024

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous calcium-sensitive messenger in eukaryotic cells. It was previously shown that CaM possesses an affinity for diverse lipid moieties, including those found on CaM-binding proteins. These facts, together with our observation that CaM accumulates in membrane-rich protrusions of HeLa cells upon increased cytosolic calcium, motivated us to perform a systematic search for unmediated CaM interactions with model lipid membranes mimicking the cytosolic leaflet of plasma membranes. A range of experimental techniques and molecular dynamics simulations prove unambiguously that CaM interacts with lipid bilayers in the presence of calcium ions. The lipids phosphatidylserine (PS) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) hold the key to CaM–membrane interactions. Calcium induces an essential conformational rearrangement of CaM, but calcium binding to the headgroup of PS also neutralizes the membrane negative surface charge. More intriguingly, PE plays a dual role—it not only forms hydrogen bonds with CaM, but also destabilizes the lipid bilayer increasing the exposure of hydrophobic acyl chains to the interacting proteins. Our findings suggest that upon increased intracellular calcium concentration, CaM and the cytosolic leaflet of cellular membranes can be functionally connected.
Biological pest regulation can benefit from diverse predation modes
Authors: Ghosh Deyatima , Borzée Amaël
Published: September 2024

Increases in agricultural intensity due to anthropogenic demands alongside the need to reduce the reliance on pesticides have resulted in an urgent need for sustainable options for pest control. Biological pest regulation is an alternative strategy that relies on natural predators and is essentially a by-product of successful foraging. Therefore, knowledge of the predator’s specific foraging behaviour can significantly improve bioregulation. In this article, we discuss the implications of predators’ diverse foraging modes on their efficiency as bioregulators of crop pests using amphibians and reptiles as models. Amphibians and reptiles are promising bioregulators as they are insectivorous, and the diversity in their foraging styles—ambush and active foraging, differing in energy expenditure, movement, cognitive abilities, reliance on cues, response to predatory risk, competition and prey salience—can have specific impacts on pest regulation. We propose the uptake of this concept into strategizing pest management actions. We are now moving towards an era of biological pest regulation, which is the most targeted, economically profitable method with zero negative impact on the ecosystem. Utilizing diverse traits associated with the different foraging modes in vertebrate predators can be a crucial tool in allowing pest management to adapt to the extreme challenges it is facing.
Deciphering the influence of NaCl on social behaviour of
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Murugan Prem Anand , Sahu Muktesh Kumar , Gupta Manish Kumar , Sankar T. Sabari , Chandran Sivasurender , Matheshwaran Saravanan
Published: September 2024

Various environmental signals, such as temperature, pH, nutrient levels, salt content and the presence of other microorganisms, can influence biofilm’s development and dynamics. However, the innate mechanisms that govern at the molecular and cellular levels remain elusive. Here, we report the impact of physiologically relevant concentrations of NaCl on biofilm formation and the associated differences in an undomesticated natural isolate of
Bacillus subtilis
. NaCl exposure and its uptake by bacterial cells induced substantial changes in the architecture of pellicle biofilm and an upsurge in the expansion of biofilm colonies on agar surfaces. We have observed the upregulation of genes involved in motility and the downregulation of genes involved in the biosynthesis of extracellular matrix components through the transcription factor
sigD,
suggesting the possible underlying mechanisms. To further support these observations, we have used Δ
sigD and
Δ
srfAC
null mutants, which showed compromised NaCl-induced effects. Our results indicate that NaCl induces a lifestyle shift in
B. subtilis
from a sessile biofilm state to an independent unicellular motile state. Overall, we present evidence that NaCl can reprogramme gene expression and alter cellular morphology and the state of cells to adapt to motility, which facilitates the expansion of bacterial colonies.
Are the chemical families still there? Formal structure of similarity of elements and its thermochemical domain
Authors: Llanos Eugenio , Leal Wilmer , Bernal Andrés , Jost Jürgen , Stadler Peter F.
Published: September 2024

The periodic table organizes chemical elements into families based on their similarity, now understood through Quantum Mechanics. However, these families were inferred from limited compounds in the nineteenth century. Since then, the number of compounds has exponentially grown, leading to the discovery of new types unknown to pioneers. This situation prompts the question of whether these families can still be discerned from the amassed data, or if their recognition is confined to specific thermochemical domains. To address this inquiry, we conducted a comprehensive exploration by comparing formulae (1771–2015) as a proxy for chemical similarity. Our findings reveal that stoichiometry not only captures a significant portion of the trends observed within families but also unveils other intriguing features of the formal structure of chemical similarity. These patterns approach equivalence classes independent of thermochemical context and demonstrate high resilience. Temporal analysis demonstrates that, since approximately 1980, similarity is diminishing due to an increasing production of unique formulae for nearly all elements. Nevertheless, chemical families endure over time and they stand out as the most robust similarity patterns. Our analysis offers compelling evidence that any study will reach the same conclusions, provided there is a sufficient diversity in input compound data.
The impact of acute low salinity stress on Antarctic echinoderms
Authors: Barrett Nicholas J. , Harper Elizabeth M. , Peck Lloyd S.
Published: September 2024

Climate change is causing increased coastal freshening in Antarctica, leading to reduced salinity. For Antarctica’s endemic echinoderms, adapted to the stable polar environment, the impact of rapid reductions in coastal salinity on physiology and behaviour is currently unknown. Six common Antarctic echinoderms (the sea urchin
Sterechinus neumayeri
; the sea star
Odontaster validus
; the brittle star
Ophionotus victoriae
; and three sea cucumbers
Cucumaria georgiana
,
Echinopsolus charcoti
and
Heterocucumis steineni
), were directly transferred from ambient salinity (34.5‰) to a range of salinity dilutions (29–9‰) for 24 h. All species showed reduced activity and the establishment of a temporary osmotic gradient between coelomic fluid and external seawater. Most species exhibited a depression in oxygen consumption across tolerated salinities; however, at very low salinities that later resulted in mortality, oxygen consumption increased to levels comparable to those at ambient. Low salinity tolerance varied substantially between species, with
O. victoriae
being the least tolerant (24 h LC
50
(lethal for 50% of animals) = 19.9‰) while
E. charcoti
and
C. georgiana
demonstrated the greatest tolerance (24 h LC
50
= 11.5‰). These findings demonstrate the species-specific response of Antarctica’s endemic echinoderms to short-term hypoosmotic salinity events, providing valuable insight into this phylum’s ability to respond to an underreported impact of climate change.
Alarm calls of sagebrush converge when herbivory is high
Authors: Karban Richard , Rasheed Muhammad Usman , Huntzinger Mikaela , Grof-Tisza Patrick , Blande James
Published: September 2024

Herbivory is a major threat to virtually all plants, so adaptations to avoid herbivory will generally be selected. One potential adaptation is the ability to ‘listen in’ on the volatile cues emitted by plants that are experiencing herbivory and to then respond by ramping up defences. The nature of these volatile cues is poorly understood. Sagebrush (
Artemisia tridentata
) plants that were exposed to cues of experimentally damaged neighbours experienced less herbivory; this induction was most effective if emitter and receiver plants had similar volatile emission profiles, termed chemotypes. Previously, we observed that sagebrush populations that were in locations with high herbivory exhibited little diversity of volatiles compared to populations with low herbivory. Several hypotheses could produce this correlation. High risk of herbivory could have selected for individuals that converged on a common ‘alarm cue’ that all individuals would respond to. In this case, individuals of locally rare chemotypes that were less able to eavesdrop would experience more damage than common chemotypes when herbivores were abundant. Alternatively, low chemotypic diversity could allow higher levels of damage to plants. In this case, rare chemotypes would experience less damage than common chemotypes. We examined the chemotypes of sagebrush individuals from multiple sites and found that rare chemotypes experienced more damage than common chemotypes when herbivores were abundant. This pattern was seen among sites and among years with different densities of herbivores. This result is consistent with the hypothesis that herbivory selects for individuals that are effective communicators and shapes the communication system.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between neglected tropical diseases and malnutrition: more research needed on diseases other than intestinal parasites, leishmaniasis and leprosy
Authors: Loglo Aloysius , Aniagyei Wilfred , Vivekanandan Monika Mira , Agbanyo Abigail , Asamoah Evans Adu , Phillips Richard Odame , Annan Reginald , Engel Barbara , Simmonds Rachel E
Published: September 2024

Background: According to the WHO, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over 2 billion people worldwide. While the links between nutrition and many diseases have become clear over recent decade, NTDs have lagged behind and the linkage with nutrition is largely unknown. We conducted this systematic review with meta-analysis to determine current knowledge on the association between NTDs and malnutrition.
Methodology: PubMed, Embase, Scopus and African Journal online databases were searched using predefined search terms. We included all original articles with a case-control design and at least one NTD. The studies had to compare nutritional parameters between infected cases and control participants.  Articles that did not report original data were excluded. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Pooled estimates were conducted using the random-effects model. The publication bias of studies was determined by funnel plots.  Q and I2 statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies.
Results: After screening 1294 articles, only 16 qualified for the systematic review and 12 for meta-analysis. These predominately had a focus on soil-transmitted helminthiasis (ascariasis, hookworm diseases, trichuriasis) and schistosomiasis, with a minority concerning leishmaniasis and leprosy. Pooled estimates showed an association between intestinal parasites and stunting in children (OR= 1.38, 95%CI: 1.14-1.66, I2 = 0%, tau^2 = 0). We also identified a moderate association established between serum iron deficiency (OR=4.67, 95%CI: 1.91-11.44, tau^2 =0) and intestinal parasites.
Conclusions/Significance: Of the 20 NTDs, the links between diet and disease have been explored for only four. There is a paucity of data from low and middle-income countries and least developed countries where the NTD burden is high. Therefore, more research into the role of malnutrition in NTDs other than intestinal parasites, leishmaniasis and leprosy is needed.
Targeting cancer-associated glycosylation for adoptive T cell therapy of gastro-intestinal and gynecological cancers
Authors: Zingg Andreas , Ritschard Reto , Thut Helen , Buchi Mélanie , Holbro Andreas , Oseledchyk Anton , Heinzelmann Viola , Buser Andreas , Binder Mascha , Zippelius Alfred , Mantuano Natalia Rodrigues , Matter Matthias , Läubli Heinz
Published: September 2024

CAR-T cell therapy has provided a significant improvement for patients with chemotherapy-resistant B cell malignancies. However, CAR-T cell treatment of patients with solid cancers has been more difficult, in part because of the heterogeneous expression of tumor-specific cell surface antigens. Here, we describe the generation of a fully human CAR targeting altered glycosylation in secretory epithelial cancers. The expression of the target antigen – the truncated, sialylated O-glycan sialyl-Thomsen-Nouveau antigen (STn) – was studied with a highly STn-specific antibody across various different tumor tissues. Strong expression was found in a high proportion of gastro-intestinal cancers including pancreatic cancers and in gynecological cancers, in particular ovarian and endometrial tumors. T cells expressing anti-STn CAR were testedin vitroandin vivo.Anti-STn CAR-T cells showed activity in mouse models as well as in assays with primary ovarian cancer samples. No significant toxicity was observed in mouse models, although some intraluminal expression of STn was found in gastro-intestinal mouse tissue. Taken together, this fully human anti-STn CAR construct shows promising activity in preclinical tumor models supporting its further evaluation in early clinical trials.
Providing an e-cigarette starter kit for smoking cessation and reduction as adjunct to usual care to smokers with a mental health condition: Findings from the ESCAPE feasibility study
Authors: Kale Dimitra , Beard Emma , Marshall Anna-Marie , Pervin Jodi , Wu Qi , Ratschen Elena , Shahab Lion
Published: September 2024

Background: Smoking rates in the UK have declined steadily over the past decades, masking considerable inequalities, as little change has been observed among people with a mental health condition. This trial sought to assess the feasibility and acceptability of supplying an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) starter kit for smoking cessation as an adjunct to usual care for smoking cessation, to smokers with a mental health condition treated in the community, to inform a future effectiveness trial. Methods: This randomised controlled feasibility trial, conducted March-December 2022, compared the intervention (e-cigarette starter kit with a corresponding information leaflet and demonstration with Very Brief Advice) with a usual care control at 1-month follow-up. Participants were 18+ years, receiving treatment for any mental health condition in primary or secondary care in three Mental Health Trusts in Yorkshire and one in London, UK. They were also willing to address their smoking through either cessation or reduction of cigarette consumption. The agreed primary outcome measure was feasibility (consent~15% of eligible participants; attrition rate<30%). Acceptability, validated sustained abstinence and at least 50% cigarette consumption reduction at 1-month, were also evaluated and qualitative interviews conducted to further explore acceptability in this population. Results: Feasibility targets were partially met; of 201 eligible participants, 43 (mean age = 45.2, SD = 12.7; 39.5% female) were recruited (21.4%) and randomised (intervention:48.8%, n=21; control:51.2%, n=22). Attrition rate was 37.2% at 1-month follow-up and was higher (45.5%) in the control group. At follow-up (n=27), 93.3% (n=14) in the intervention group and 25.0% (n=3) in the control group reported e-cigarette use. The intervention was well received with minimal negative effects. In intention-to-treat analysis, validated sustained abstinence at 1-month was 2/21 (9.5%) and 0/22 (0%) and at least 50% reduction in cigarette consumption 13/21 (61.9%) and 3/22 (13.6%), for the intervention and control group, respectively. Qualitative analysis of participant interviews (N=5) showed the intervention was broadly acceptable, but they also highlighted areas of improvements for the intervention and trial delivery. Conclusions: Offering an e-cigarette starter kit to smokers with a mental health condition treated in the community was acceptable and largely feasible, with harm reduction outcomes (i.e. switching from cigarette smoking to e-cigarette use and substantial reduction in cigarette consumption) favouring the intervention. The findings of the study will be used to help inform the design of a main trial.