bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Global Longitudinal Strain in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Yujiao , Qing Wang , Liu Chunqiu , Shuang Xiong , Yang Chenguang , Qiao Wenbo , Dong Guoju , Liu Jiangang
Published: March 2023

Objective

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), an increasing public health concern, is increasing in prevalence and is associated with an elevated risk of hospitalization and mortality. Currently, data on the clinical application value of left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) in HFpEF are contradictory. Therefore, we performed the following meta-analysis to appraise the diagnostic and prognostic value of LV GLS in HFpEF.

Methods

PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science were retrieved exhaustively from their inception until December 20, 2022, to obtain literature assessing the diagnostic and prognostic value of LV GLS in HFpEF.

Results

Forty-one studies (including 14,543 patients) published from 2008 to 2022 were included. The results of the meta-analysis were as follows: First, the LV GLS values in HFpEF patients were significantly lower than in healthy individuals (SMD:1.21; 95% CI (0.94, 1.47), p<0.00001, I2=85%; P<0.00001), but substantially higher than in HErEF patients (SMD: -2.03; 95% CI (−2.23, -1.72), p<0.00001, I2=92%; P<0.00001). Second, the pooled diagnostic parameters of LV GLS for HFpEF were as follows: sensitivity, 0.77 (95% CI: 0.71–0.82); specificity, 0.66 (95% CI: 0.58–0.74); DOR, 7.53 (95% CI: 3.19–17.74); AUC for the SROC, 0.81 (95% CI: 0.79–0.87). Finally, the low LV GLS values were correlated with a higher risk of all-cause death (HR: 1.12; 95% CI: 1.01-1.25; p=0.000, I2=84%; P = 0.031) in HFpEF patients.

Conclusions

LV GLS is impaired in HFpEF patients despite a normal left ventricular ejection fraction, indicating the existence of mild LV contractile dysfunction. Moreover, LV GLS might be an auxiliary indicator for diagnosing HFpEF and predicting all-cause death in HFpEF patients.
WITHDRAWN: Signal Transduction and Kinase Control in Nanodisc-ReconstitutedE. coliAerotaxis Receptor
Authors: Maschmann Zachary A. , Chandrasekaran Siddarth , Anderson Elizabeth T. , Fu Qin , Freed Jack H. , Crane Brian R.
Published: March 2023

WITHDRAWAL STATEMENT

The authors have withdrawn this manuscript because it’s being revised. The authors wish to withdraw this manuscript for two reasons. Firstly, the relevance and validity of some of the mass spectrometry data in the manuscript are being questioned by the authors. Secondly, some of the authors had not adequately reviewed the manuscript before it was uploaded to bioRxiv. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as reference for the project. If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author.
Increased intracellular persulfide levels attenuate HlyU-mediated hemolysin transcriptional activation inVibrio cholerae
Authors: Diez Cristian M. Pis , Antelo Giuliano T. , Dalia Triana N. , Dalia Ankur B. , Giedroc David P. , Capdevila Daiana A.
Published: March 2023

The vertebrate host’s immune system and resident commensal bacteria deploy a range of highly reactive small molecules that provide a barrier against infections by microbial pathogens. Gut pathogens, such asVibrio cholerae, sense and respond to these stressors by modulating the expression of exotoxins that are crucial for colonization. Here, we employ mass-spectrometry-based profiling, metabolomics, expression assays and biophysical approaches to show that transcriptional activation of the hemolysin genehlyAinV. choleraeis regulated by intracellular reactive sulfur species (RSS), specifically sulfane sulfur. We first present a comprehensive sequence similarity network analysis of the arsenic repressor (ArsR) superfamily of transcriptional regulators where RSS and reactive oxygen species (ROS) sensors segregate into distinct clusters. We show that HlyU, transcriptional activator ofhlyAinV. cholerae, belongs to the RSS-sensing cluster and readily reacts with organic persulfides, showing no reactivity and remaining DNA-bound following treatment with various ROS in vitro, including H2O2. Surprisingly, inV. choleraecell cultures, both sulfide and peroxide treatment downregulate HlyU-dependent transcriptional activation ofhlyA. However, RSS metabolite profiling shows that both sulfide and peroxide treatment raise the endogenous inorganic sulfide and disulfide levels to a similar extent, accounting for this crosstalk, and confirming thatV. choleraeattenuates HlyU-mediated activation ofhlyAin a specific response to intracellular RSS. These findings provide new evidence that gut pathogens may harness RSS-sensing as an evolutionary adaptation that allows them to overcome the gut inflammatory response by modulating the expression of exotoxins.
Organization and Plasticity of Inhibition in Hippocampal Recurrent Circuits
Authors: Vancura Bert , Geiller Tristan , Losonczy Attila
Published: March 2023

Excitatory-inhibitory interactions structure recurrent network dynamics for efficient cortical computations. In the CA3 area of the hippocampus, recurrent circuit dynamics, including experience-induced plasticity at excitatory synapses, are thought to play a key role in episodic memory encoding and consolidation via rapid generation and flexible selection of neural ensembles. However,in vivoactivity of identified inhibitory motifs supporting this recurrent circuitry has remained largely inaccessible, and it is unknown whether CA3 inhibition is also modifiable upon experience. Here we use large-scale, 3-dimensional calcium imaging and retrospective molecular identification in the mouse hippocampus to obtain the first comprehensive description of molecularly-identified CA3 interneuron dynamics during both spatial navigation and sharp-wave ripple (SWR)-associated memory consolidation. Our results uncover subtype-specific dynamics during behaviorally distinct brain-states. Our data also demonstrate predictive, reflective, and experience-driven plastic recruitment of specific inhibitory motifs during SWR-related memory reactivation. Together these results assign active roles for inhibitory circuits in coordinating operations and plasticity in hippocampal recurrent circuits.
The carboxyl-terminal processing proteases Prc and CtpA modulate cell-surface signalling activity andPseudomonas aeruginosavirulence
Authors: Otero-Asman Joaquín R. , Sánchez-Jiménez Ana , Bastiaansen Karlijn C. , Wettstadt Sarah , Civantos Cristina , García-Puente Alicia , Bitter Wilbert , Llamas María A.
Published: March 2023

Cell-surface signalling (CSS) is a signal transfer system of Gram-negative bacteria used to detect extracellular signals and modulate gene transcription in response. These three-protein systems are formed by an outer membrane receptor, a cytoplasmic membrane-embedded anti-σ factor and a cytosolic extracytoplasmic function σ factor (σECF). In absence of an inducing signal, the anti-σ factor binds to and keeps the σECFfactor sequestered, thus preventing its interaction with the RNA polymerase and the transcription of signal response genes. Presence of the signal triggers a signalling cascade that extends from the outer membrane to the cytosol and results in σECFfactor activation. Recently, we and others have reported that CSS σECFfactor activation requires the regulated and sequential proteolysis of the cognate anti-σ factor, and the function of the Prc and RseP proteases. However, many features of this proteolytic cascade are still unclear. In this work, we have identified another protease that modulates CSS activity, namely the periplasmic carboxyl-terminal processing protease CtpA. We show that both CtpA and the previously identified protease Prc control CSS activation by modulating the levels of the anti-σ factor. CtpA functions upstream of Prc in the proteolytic cascade and seems to prevent the Prc-mediated proteolysis of the CSS anti-σ factor. Importantly, using zebrafish embryos and the A549 cell line as hosts, we show that mutants in thersePandctpAproteases of the human pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosaare considerably attenuated in virulence while theprcmutation increases virulence likely by enhancing the production of outer membrane vesicles. Because proteases are druggable proteins, the identification of regulatory proteases involved inP. aeruginosavirulence holds promise for the development of novel strategies to fight this clinically relevant pathogen.
The T1150A cancer mutant of the protein lysine dimethyltransferase NSD2 can introduce H3K36 trimethylation
Authors: Khella Mina S. , Schnee Philipp , Weirich Sara , Bui Tan , Bröhm Alexander , Bashtrykov Pavel , Pleiss Jürgen , Jeltsch Albert
Published: March 2023

Somatic mutations in protein lysine methyltransferases are frequently observed in cancer cells. We show here that the NSD1 mutations Y1971C, R2017Q and R2017L observed mostly in solid cancers are catalytically inactive suggesting that NSD1 acts as tumor suppressor gene in these tumors. In contrast, the frequent T1150A in NSD2 and its T2029A counterpart in NSD1, both observed in leukemia, are hyperactive and introduce up to H3K36me3 in biochemical and cellular assays, while wildtype NSD2 and NSD1 only generate up to H3K36me2. MD simulations with NSD2 revealed that H3K36me3 formation is possible due to an enlarged active site pocket of T1150A and loss of direct contacts of T1150 to critical residues which regulate the product specificity of NSD2. Bioinformatic analyses of published data suggest that the NSD2 T1150A mutation in lymphocytic leukemia could alter gene regulation by antagonizing H3K27me3 finally leading to the upregulation of oncogenes.
2D Effects Enhance Precision of Gradient-Based Tissue Patterning
Authors: Long Yuchong , Vetter Roman , Iber Dagmar
Published: March 2023

Robust embryonic development requires pattern formation with high spatial accuracy. In epithelial tissues that are patterned by morphogen gradients, the emerging patterns achieve levels of precision that have recently been explained by a simple one-dimensional reaction-diffusion model with kinetic noise. Here, we show that patterning precision is even greater if transverse diffusion effects are at play in such tissues. The positional error, a measure for spatial patterning accuracy, decreases in wider tissues but then saturates beyond a width of about ten cells. This demonstrates that the precision of gradient-based patterning in two- or higher-dimensional systems can be even greater than predicted by 1D models, and further attests to the potential of noisy morphogen gradients for high-precision tissue patterning.
Specific targeting and clustering of Phosphatidylserine lipids by RSV M protein is critical for virus particle production
Authors: Swain Jitendriya , Bierre Maxime , Veyrié Laura , Richard Charles-Adrien , Eleouet Jean-Francois , Muriaux Delphine , Bajorek Monika
Published: March 2023

Human Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of infantile bronchiolitis in the developed world and of childhood deaths in resource-poor settings. The elderly and the immunosuppressed are also affected. It is a major unmet target for vaccines and anti-viral drugs. RSV assembles and buds from the host cell plasma membrane by forming infections viral particles which are mostly filamentous. A key interaction during RSV assembly is the interaction of plasma membrane lipids with the Matrix (M) protein layer forming at assembly sites. Although the structure of RSV M protein dimer is known, it is unclear how the viral M proteins interact with certain plasma membrane lipids to promote viral assembly. Here, we demonstrate that M proteins cluster at the plasma membrane by selectively binding with phosphatidylserine (PS). Ourin vitrostudies suggest that M binds PS lipid as dimers and M mutant with a phosphomimetic substitution inhibits interaction with PS lipids. The presence of other negatively charged lipids like PI(4, 5)P2 does not affect RSV M ability to bind, while cholesterol negatively affects M interaction with lipids. Moreover, we show that the initial binding of the RSV M protein with lipids is independent of the cytoplasmic tail of fusion (F) glycoprotein (FCT). It is the firstin vitrostudy of M interaction with plasma membrane lipids. M binding to plasma membrane may represent a viable therapeutic strategy for small molecules that will block viral spread.
Triplet-encoded prebiotic RNA aminoacylation
Authors: Su Meng , Schmitt Christian , Liu Ziwei , Roberts Samuel J. , Liu Kim C. , Röder Konstantin , Jäschke Andres , Wales David J. , Sutherland John D.
Published: March 2023

The encoding step of translation involves attachment of amino acids to cognate tRNAs by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, themselves the product of coded peptide synthesis. So, the question arises — before these enzymes evolved, how were primordial tRNAs selectively aminoacylated? Here we demonstrate enzyme-free, sequence-dependent, chemoselective aminoacylation of RNA. We investigated two potentially prebiotic routes to aminoacyl-tRNA acceptor stem-overhang mimics and analyzed those oligonucleotides undergoing the most efficient aminoacylation. Overhang sequences do not influence the chemoselectivity of aminoacylation by either route. For aminoacyl-transfer from a mixed anhydride donor strand, the chemoselectivity and stereoselectivity of aminoacylation depends on the terminal three base pairs of the stem. The results support early suggestions of a second genetic code in the acceptor stem.

One-Sentence Summary

Selectivity of RNA stem-overhang aminoacylation is controlled by the terminal trinucleotide sequence of the stem.
Analysis of RNA processing directly from spatial transcriptomics data reveals previously unknown regulation
Authors: Olivieri Julia , Salzman Julia
Published: March 2023

Technical advances have led to an explosion in the amount of biological data available in recent years, especially in the field of RNA sequencing. Specifically, spatial transcriptomics (ST) datasets, which allow each RNA molecule to be mapped to the 2D location it originated from within a tissue, have become readily available. Due to computational challenges, ST data has rarely been used to study RNA processing such as splicing or differential UTR usage. We apply the ReadZS and the SpliZ, methods developed to analyze RNA process in scRNA-seq data, to analyze spatial localization of RNA processing directly from ST data for the first time. Using Moran’s I metric for spatial autocorrelation, we identify genes with spatially regulated RNA processing in the mouse brain and kidney, re-discovering known spatial regulation inMyl6and identifying previously-unknown spatial regulation in genes such asRps24, Gng13, Slc8a1, Gpm6a, Gpx3, ActB, Rps8, andS100A9. The rich set of discoveries made here from commonly used reference datasets provides a small taste of what can be learned by applying this technique more broadly to the large quantity of Visium data currently being created.
More than a prickly morphology: plastome variation in the prickly pear cacti (Opuntieae)
Authors: Köhler Matias , Reginato Marcelo , Jin Jian-Jun , Majure Lucas C.
Published: March 2023

Plastid genomes (plastomes) have long been recognized as highly conserved in their overall structure, size, gene arrangement and content among land plants. However, recent studies have shown that some lineages present unusual variations in some of these features. Members of the cactus family are one of these lineages, with distinct plastome structures reported across disparate lineages including gene losses, inversions, boundary movements, or loss of the canonical inverted repeat (IR) region. Here, we further investigated plastome features of the tribe Opuntieae, the remarkable prickly pear cacti, which represent a diverse and important lineage of Cactaceae. We assembled the plastome of 43 species, representing a comprehensive sampling of the tribe including all seven genera. Plastomes varied considerably in length from 121 kbp to 162 kbp, with striking differences in the content and size of the IR region (contraction and expansion events), including the lack of the canonical IR in some lineages, and the pseudogenization or loss of some genes. Overall, nine different types of plastomes were reported deviating in the presence of the IR region or the genes contained in the IR. Plastomes sequences resolved phylogenetic relationships within major clades of Opuntieae but presented some contentious nodes depending on the data set analyzed (e.g., whole plastome vs. genes only). Incongruence analyses revealed that few plastome regions are supporting the most likely topology, while disputing topologies are driven by a handful of plastome markers, which may be the result of hard recalcitrant nodes in the phylogeny or by the lack of phylogenetic signal in certain markers. Our study reveals a dynamic nature of plastome evolution across closely related lineages, shedding light on peculiar features of cactus plastomes. Variation of plastome types across Opuntieae is remarkable in size, structure, and content, and can be important for the recognition of species in some major clades. Unraveling connections between the causes of plastome variation and the consequences on species biology, ecology, diversification, and adaptation, is a promising endeavor.
Phosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase marks the inhibition ofin vivoneuronal activity
Authors: Yang Dong , Wang Yu , Qi Tianbo , Zhang Xi , Shen Leyao , Ma Jingrui , Pang Zhengyuan , Lal Neeraj K. , McClatchy Daniel B. , Wang Kristina , Xie Yi , Polli Filip , Maximov Anton , Augustine Vineet , Cline Hollis T. , Yates John R. , Ye Li
Published: March 2023

For decades, the expression of immediate early genes (IEGs) such as c-foshas been the most widely used molecular marker representing neuronal activation. However, to date, there is no equivalent surrogate available for the decrease of neuronal activity (i.e., inhibition). Here, we developed an optogenetic-based biochemical screen in which population neural activities can be controlled by light with single action potential precision, followed by unbiased phosphoproteomic profiling. We identified that the phosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (pPDH) inversely correlated with the intensity of action potential firing in primary neurons. Inin vivomouse models, monoclonal antibody-based pPDH immunostaining detected neuronal inhibition across the brain induced by a wide range of factors including general anesthesia, sensory experiences, and natural behaviors. Thus, as anin vivomarker for neuronal inhibition, pPDH can be used together with IEGs or other cell-type markers to profile and identify bi-directional neural dynamics induced by experiences or behaviors.
TheArabidopsis thalianacarboxylesterase AtCXE12 converts volatile (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate to (Z)-3-hexenol
Authors: Cofer Tristan M. , Erb Matthias , Tumlinson James H.
Published: March 2023

The green leaf volatiles (Z)-3-hexenal, (Z)-3-hexenol, and (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate are produced by nearly all plants in response to wounding and insect attack, can be transferred between plants, metabolized, and act as defense cues. If and how plant leaves convert exogenous (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate to (Z)-3-hexenol is unknown. We show that Arabidopsis leaves rapidly convert exogenous (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate to (Z)-3-hexenol. Inhibitor and fractionation experiments identified the carboxylesterases AtCXE5 and AtCXE12 as likely contributors to (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate esterase activity in Arabidopsis leaves. Heterologous expression of AtCXE5 and AtCXE12 revealed that both enzymes hydrolyze (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate to (Z)-3-hexenolin vitro, and assays using T-DNA insertion mutant plants showed that AtCXE12 significantly contributes to the conversion of (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate to (Z)-3-hexenolin planta. Lastly, we found that leaves from several other plant species possess (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate esterase activity, as well as homologs of AtCXE5 and AtCXE12 from Arabidopsis. Collectively, our study provides a better understanding of green leaf volatile biosynthesis and conversion dynamics, necessary for unraveling the potential functions of these compounds.
Information and communication technology in agriculture: awareness, readiness and adoption in the Kingdom of Bahrain
Authors: Al-Ammary Jaflah Hassan , Ghanem Mohammed Essam
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Information and communication technologies (ICT)-presented technological developments, such as soil sensors, remote sensing, artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, have shown the potential to increase crop output and quality while consuming fewer resources and having a smaller environmental impact. The first step in ushering in a new era of technological advancement in the agricultural sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain is evaluating how prepared farmers and farm owners are to adopt these technologies. Therefore, the current study examines how ICT are prepared, accepted and adopted in agriculture in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Design/methodology/approach

The study's goals were attained by using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. A survey was created to learn more about the present state of ICT usage in agriculture, including its awareness, readiness, acceptance and adoption. To strengthen the conclusions and investigate the current situation related agricultural behavior, production and the use of information technology (IT) to support agriculture in the chosen farms, four exploratory field visits were made. Additionally, a strength-weakness-opportunities-threat (SWOT)-threat, opportunities, weakness, strength (TOWS) analysis was performed to evaluate the Kingdom of Bahrain's readiness and long-term plans for implementing ICT in agriculture. On the basis of secondary data, survey data and interview findings, SWOT-TOWS were created.

Findings

The findings revealed insufficient knowledge and awareness about ICT in agriculture. Despite the high level of digital infrastructure readiness in Bahrain, farmers are not ready to adopt sophisticated devices and complex applications such as crop sensing tools, the internet of things (IoT) and AI; however, there is a strong acceptance among farmers to implement new ideas and agriculture approaches.

Originality/value

The Arabian Gulf Countries, which are characterized by an arid environment, sporadic vegetation, weak soil and a lack of water supplies and arable land, have few studies that explore the crucial role of ICT in growing the agricultural sector. Considering the influence of ICT on the provision of more productive agriculture in a challenging and complicated environment, the study contributes to the body of knowledge by conducting an empirical investigation that addresses an urgent issue. The study is considered one of the few in the countries of the Arabian Gulf to address this subject.
Cone–hole docking mechanism for a modular reconfigurable mobile robot and its characteristic analysis
Authors: Tang Shufeng , Huang Renjie , Zhao Guoqing , Wang Guoqing
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is that the modular mobile robots reformed the multimachine joint mode to achieve obstacle-crossing, climbing and other multifunctional inspection in unstructured environment under the connection of the cone–hole docking mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach

An arc-shaped docking cone head with a posture-maintaining spring and two arc-shaped connecting rods that formed a ring round hole were designed to achieve large tolerance docking. Before active locking, the coordination between structures was used to achieve passive locking, which mitigated the docking impact of modular robots in unstructured environment. Using the locking ring composed of the two arc-shaped connecting rods, open-loop and closed-loop motion characteristics were obtained through the mutual motion of the connecting rod and the sliding block to achieve active locking, which not only ensured high precision docking, but also achieved super docking stability.

Findings

The cone–hole docking mechanism had the docking tolerance performance of position deviation of 6mm and pitch deviation of 8° to achieve docking of six degrees of freedom (6-DOF), which had a load capacity of 230 N to achieve super docking stability. Under the connection of the cone–hole docking mechanism, the modular mobile robots reformed the multimachine joint mode to achieve obstacle-crossing, climbing and other multifunctional inspection in unstructured environment.

Originality/value

Based on mechanical analysis of universal models, a cone–hole docking mechanism combining active and passive functions, six-dimensional constraints could be implemented, was proposed in this paper. The characteristics of the posture-maintaining spring in the cone docking head and the compression spring at the two ends of two arc-shaped connecting rods were used to achieve docking with large tolerance. Passive locking and active locking modules were designed, mitigating impact load and the locking did not require power to maintain, which not only ensured high precision docking, but also achieved super docking stability.
Generation Z as a critical question mark for sustainable tourism – An exploratory study in Portugal
Authors: Pinho Micaela , Gomes Sofia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Much has been speculated about the role that Generation Z will play in achieving more sustainable development. The tourism sector gains a special role in this discussion. On the one hand, tourism, due to its growing importance, has had a significant impact on environmental sustainability. On the other hand, Generation Z will be the largest group of travellers ever in the future. In this context, the objective of the present study is to explore the interest of young Portuguese generation Z in sustainable development goals (SDGs), tourism sustainability (TS) and their pro-environmental habits and how these categories influence the choice of sustainable tourism destination.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 305 young Portuguese. The quantitative analysis was performed with the application of the partial least square (PLS) model.

Findings

Overall, the authors found that despite our respondents showing an interest in the SDGs the same interest is not true for tourism. Although most respondents are concerned about choosing a sustainable destination, they do not care about keeping destinations sustainable, nor do they have pro-environmental habits.

Originality/value

This study presents the first evidence of the attitudes, beliefs and pro-environmental habits of Portuguese Gen Zers and their potential contribution to TS.
Standpoint theory and middle‐range theorizing in International Sociology
Authors: Krause Monika
Published: March 2023

This paper responds to Julian Go's Lecture “Thinking against Empire. Anti‐colonial Thought and Social Theory.” It proceeds in two parts: I first follow Go's invitation to read and reread Mabel Dove Danquah and Frantz Fanon and explore what their work contributes to our understanding of state‐forms. I then examine the terms of Go's invitation more closely. I contrast Go's juxtaposition of imperial sociology on the one hand and anti‐colonial sociology on the other hand, with the broader range of theoretical traditions and methods, which a practice‐oriented sociology of sociology and an international history of sociology would highlight. I raise the question what “standpoint” adds to the authors Go discusses and the broader range of scholars who have engaged with post‐colonial contexts in their research at this point in time. Calling for consideration of the anti‐colonial standpoint is a particular choice, which has a distinctive heritage in Hegelian‐Marxian projections of the social whole and is in tension with either deep exploration of particular thinkers or the middle‐range theorizing that Go also seems to endorse. Defined at a level of abstraction that is “above” (or underneath) actual conversations in a range of fields and subfields, it can appear as a “test” for scholars who have long engaged with post‐colonial contexts, which can have unintended consequences when coupled with the institutional power and asymmetric insularity of Anglo‐American academia.
Packaged hospital food appears safe and feasible to reuse
Authors: Lewandowski Paul A. , Barker Lisa A. , Howard Antony , Collins Jorja
Published: March 2023

Aim

To determine the safety, operational feasibility and environmental impact of collecting unopened non‐perishable packaged hospital food items for reuse.

Methods

This pilot study tested packaged foods from an Australian hospital for bacterial species, and compared this to acceptable safe limits. A waste management strategy was trialled (n = 10 days) where non‐perishable packaged foods returning to the hospital kitchen were collected off trays, and the time taken to do this and the number and weight of packaged foods collected was measured. Data were extrapolated to estimate the greenhouse gasses produced if they were disposed of in a landfill.

Results

Microbiological testing (n = 66 samples) found bacteria (total colony forming units and five common species) on packaging appeared to be within acceptable limits. It took an average of 5.1 ± 10.1 sec/tray to remove packaged food items from trays returning to the kitchen, and an average of 1768 ± 19 packaged food items were per collected per day, equating to 6613 ± 78 kg/year of waste which would produce 19 tonnes/year of greenhouse gasses in landfill.

Conclusions

A substantial volume of food items can be collected from trays without significantly disrupting current processes. Collecting and reusing or donating non‐perishable packaged food items that are served but not used within hospitals is a potential strategy to divert food waste from landfill. This pilot study provides initial data addressing infection control and feasibility concerns. While food packages in this hospital appear safe, further research with larger samples and testing additional microbial species is recommended.
Navigating nutrition as a childhood cancer survivor: Understanding patient and family needs for nutrition interventions or education
Authors: Clarke Emma , Pugh Gemma , van den Heuvel Eveline , Kavanagh Erin , Cheung Pamela , Wood Andrew , Winstanley Mark , Braakhuis Andrea , Lovell Amy L.
Published: March 2023

Aim

Nutrition challenges are common during childhood cancer treatment and can persist into survivorship, increasing the risk of non‐communicable diseases. Evidence‐based practice and implementation of nutrition interventions/education for childhood cancer survivors has been poorly investigated and may influence their future health. This study aimed to explore the nutrition interventions/education needs of childhood cancer survivors and the barriers and facilitators to delivering follow‐up services in New Zealand.

Methods

Semi structured interviews were conducted with childhood cancer survivors and/or their families (n=22) and health professionals (n=9) from a specialist paediatric oncology centre in New Zealand. Interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. A multi‐level consensus coding methodology was used where each theme and associated subthemes were discussed with the study team for confirmation to ensure accurate coding and analysis.

Results

Three themes emerged from the analysis: (1) the current survivorship care pathway does not provide adequate interventions/education, (2) weight and dietary changes are common challenges and (3) requirements for interventions/education in survivorship are varied. Common nutrition‐related concerns included fussy eating/limited dietary intake, poor diet quality, difficulties with tube weaning, and challenges with weight gain. Participants expressed a desire for education on healthy eating alongside information about cancer‐related nutrition issues, such as learned food aversions. A preference for clear referral pathways and multifaceted interventions tailored to individual patient needs was identified.

Conclusion

The trifecta of treatment side effects, negative feeding practices and poor messaging from health professionals creates a challenging environment to optimise nutrition. A stepped care model matching the intervention intensity with the childhood cancer survivors is required. Education for healthcare professionals will improve the delivery of timely interventions/education and monitoring practices.
Shifting the narrative and practice of assessing professionalism in dietetics education: An Australasian qualitative study
Authors: Dart Janeane , Rees Charlotte , Ash Susan , McCall Louise , Palermo Claire
Published: March 2023

Aim

We aimed to explore current approaches to assessing professionalism in dietetics education in Australia and New Zealand, and asked the questions what is working well and what needs to improve?

Method

We employed a qualitative interpretive approach and conducted interviews with academic and practitioner (workplace‐based) educators (total sample n = 78) with a key stake in dietetics education across Australia and New Zealand. Data were analysed using team‐based, framework analysis.

Results

Our findings suggest significant shifts in dietetics education in the area of professionalism assessment. Professionalism assessment is embedded in formal curricula of dietetics programs and is occurring in university and placement settings. In particular, advances have been demonstrated in those programs assessing professionalism as part of the programmatic assessment. Progress has been enabled by philosophical and curricula shifts; clearer articulation and shared understandings of professionalism standards; enhanced learner agency and reduced power distance; early identification and intervention of professionalism lapses; and increased confidence and capabilities of educators.

Conclusions

These findings suggest there have been considerable advances in professionalism assessment in recent years with shifts in practice in approaching professionalism through a more interpretivist lens, holistically and more student‐centred. Professionalism assessment in dietetics education is a shared responsibility and requires further development and transformation to more fully embed and strengthen curricula approaches across programs. Further work should investigate strategies to build safer learning cultures and capacity for professionalism conversations and in strengthening approaches to remediation.
Antifatigue effect of sea buckthorn seed oil on swimming fatigue in mice
Authors: An Zhonghua , Wang Yifan , Li Xiangbo , Jin Hong , Gong Yanling
Published: March 2023

The effect of sea buckthorn seed oil (SSO) on exercise‐induced fatigue in mice was explored. The animals were randomly divided into a normal control group, exercise‐induced fatigue group (EFG), SSO low‐dose group, SSO medium‐dose group, and SSO high‐dose group. The mice in all the groups underwent swimming training for 10 days. Those in the treatment groups received different amounts of SSO (0.85, 1.68, and 3.35 g/kg BW [body weight]) before the exercise. All the animals were sacrificed on the last day after an exhaustive swimming test, and serum, liver, and brain specimens were collected. In the exhaustive swimming test, the swimming durations in the SSO‐treated animals were longer than those in the EFG. Furthermore, SSO reduced serum lactic acid, blood urea nitrogen, and hepatic malondialdehyde levels and increased liver glycogen level, hepatic superoxide dismutase level, hypothalamic dopamine content, and glutathione peroxidase level. The SSO treatment decreased hypothalamic 5‐hydroxytryptamine content, lipid hydroperoxide level, NLRP3 inflammasome, and interleukin‐1β protein expression in the prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, it promoted the protein expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 in the liver. SSO exhibited an excellent antifatigue effect, which may be related to its inhibition of oxidative and inflammatory injury and regulation of hypothalamic neurotransmitters.

Practical Application

In the present study, the effect of sea buckthorn seed oil on fatigue in mice and its potential mechanism were explored. Taken together, the findings provide insight into the potential role of sea buckthorn seed oil in the development of antifatigue drugs.
Abiotic Methane Reservoirs in the Western Tianshan HP–UHP Metamorphic Belt, China
Authors: ZHANG Lijuan , ZHANG Lifei , LI Xiaowei , WANG Xiao
Published: March 2023

Natural gas, consisting primarily of methane (CH4), has become a major source of clean energy in modern society in many parts of the globe. Recent experimental observations and discoveries of deep‐sourced abiotic CH4 in cold subduction zones indicate the important ability of cold subducted slabs to generate natural gas reservoirs. However, most CH4 flux and reservoirs remain unknown and their potential is overlooked in global carbon flux estimations. Massive abiotic CH4‐rich fluid inclusions (FIs) in garnet and omphacite from ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) eclogites have been found in the Western Tianshan (WT) UHP metamorphic belt, which provides one ideal case for quantification of abiotic CH4 stored in the cold subducted crust. By two methods, we assess the abiotic CH4 content stored in the Chinese WT HP–UHP metamorphic belt. Our calculations show that at least 113 Mt CH4 is stored in the WT eclogites. We also discuss the implications for CH4 reservoirs in subduction zones worldwide and speculate that the cold subduction zones may represent one of the largest, yet overlooked, sources of abiotic CH4 on Earth, which should not be ignored in the global natural resource and carbon flux estimations.
PaCO2 trajectories in mechanically ventilated patients with COVID‐19: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Berg Ronan M. G. , Ronit Andreas , Haase Nicolai , Møller Morten Hylander , Kristiansen Klaus T. , Jonassen Trine , Wamberg Christian , Andreasen Anne Sofie , Mohr Thomas , Bestle Morten H. , Jørgensen Vibeke L. , Hammer Niels R. , Mitchell Anja U. , Smitt Margit , Greve Anders Møller , Nyeland Martin Erik , Jensen Britt Wang , Andreasen Anne Helms , Petersen Janne , Solem Espen Jimenez , Winther‐Jensen Matilde , Plovsing Ronni R.
Published: March 2023

Objective

To identify PaCO2 trajectories and assess their associations with mortality in critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) during the first and second waves of the pandemic in Denmark.

Design

A population‐based cohort study with retrospective data collection.

Patients

All COVID‐19 patients were treated in eight intensive care units (ICUs) in the Capital Region of Copenhagen, Denmark, between March 1, 2020 and March 31, 2021.

Measurements

Data from the electronic health records were extracted, and latent class analyses were computed based on up to the first 3 weeks of mechanical ventilation to depict trajectories of PaCO2 levels. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for Simplified Acute Physiology Score 3, sex and age with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for death according to PaCO2 trajectories.

Main results

In latent class trajectory models, including 25,318 PaCO2 measurements from 244 patients, three PaCO2 latent class trajectories were identified: a low isocapnic (Class I; n = 130), a high isocapnic (Class II; n = 80), as well as a progressively hypercapnic (Class III; n = 34) trajectory. Mortality was higher in Class II [aHR: 2.16 {1.26–3.68}] and Class III [aHR: 2.97 {1.63–5.40}]) compared to Class I (reference).

Conclusion

Latent class analysis of arterial blood gases in mechanically ventilated COVID‐19 patients identified distinct PaCO2 trajectories, which were independently associated with mortality.
Earnings manipulation and similarity of annual report disclosure: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Yonghai , Ye Qingyun , Wang Jenny Jing , Wang Yunqian
Published: March 2023

The Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) section is an important component of a company's annual report, where the management team provides a textual analysis of the company's performance for investors. Due to the existence of agency problems, management is likely to mask any earnings manipulation in order to maximise their salary, build a corporate empire or obtain more financing, which will reduce the reliability of the company's financial information. Utilising 13,679 Chinese A‐share listed companies from 2008 to 2020, this study examines the correlation between management earnings manipulation and annual report MD&A similarity. We find that earnings manipulation leads to increased MD&A similarity in order to reduce the transmission of useful information and thus stymie investors. As such, we recommend that regulatory authorities should monitor the level of similarity and validity of MD&A disclosures in addition to the authenticity of numerical financial information.
Are quality biological indices universally useful? Limits of benthic based indices in a brackish and arid sub‐basin from Argentina
Authors: Alvarez Dalinger Florencia Soledad , Lozano Verónica Laura , Moraña Liliana , Borja Claudia Nidia , Salusso Mónica
Published: March 2023

The water quality of rivers belonging to an arid sub‐basin in northern Argentina was evaluated in a longitudinal gradient, during the period of maximum dryness in 2017. The composition and structure of the phytobenthos were studied using biotic indices. A total of 126 spp. were determined, with a predominance of diatoms and Cyanobacteria. Most of the diatom species found were meso to polyhalobus and tolerant to organic contamination. Despite the rivers of the basin cross areas with very different land uses, no differences were recorded in phytobenthos abundances between sites. The Pantle & Buck Saprobity index classified the sub‐basin in the α‐mesosaprobability range, and the diatomaceous eutrophication/pollution index assigns poor quality to most of the sites. Salinity should induce phycoflora homogenization that limits the sensibility of biotic indices to anthropogenic impacts.
Three siblings with variable degrees of neuromuscular involvement and congenital sideroblastic anemia: A peculiar phenotype and a surprise genotypic explanation
Authors: Salam Mai Abd El , Salama Khaled , Selim Yasmeen M. M. , Saad Mariam , Rady Rasha , Alawbathani Salem , Schroeder Sabine , Elmonem Mohamed A. , Elkhateeb Nour
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Congenital sideroblastic anemias (CSAs) are a group of inherited bone‐marrow disorders manifesting with erythroid hyperplasia and ineffective erythropoiesis. Methods: We describe a detailed clinical and genetic characterization of three siblings with CSA. Results: Two of them had limb‐girdle myopathy and global developmental delay. The two elder siblings performed allogenic hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation 5 and 3 years prior with stabilization of the hematological features. Exome sequencing in the non‐transplanted sibling revealed a novel homozygous nonsense variant in SLC25A38 gene NM_017875.2:c.559C > T; p.(Arg187*) causing autosomal‐recessive sideroblastic anemia type‐2, and a second homozygous pathogenic previously reported variant in GMPPB gene NM_013334.3:c.458C > T; p.(Thr153Ile) causing autosomal‐recessive muscular dystrophy‐dystroglycanopathy type B14. With the established diagnosis, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is now being scheduled for the youngest sibling, and a trial therapy with acetylcholine esterase inhibitors was started for the two neurologically affected patients with partial clinical improvement. Conclusion: This family emphasizes the importance of whole‐exome sequencing for familial cases with complex phenotypes and vague neurological manifestations.
Application of three‐dimensional printing individualized titanium mesh in alveolar bone defects with different Terheyden classifications: A retrospective case series study
Authors: Nan Xiang , Wang Chao , Li Linzhi , Ma Xiaofei , Chen Tao , Huang Yuanding
Published: March 2023

Objective

To present the results of guided bone regeneration (GBR) with three‐dimensional printing individualized titanium mesh (3D‐PITM) applied to alveolar bone defects with different Terheyden classifications and the factors affecting the osteogenic outcome.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐nine patients, presenting with 61 defect sites, were enrolled between 2018 and 2021. GBR+3D‐PITM was obtained with simultaneous or second stage implant placement. The complication rate, the success rate of the bone grafting procedure and the survival rate of the implant were documented. Bone gain, thickness of pseudo‐periosteum and peri‐implant marginal bone loss (MBL) were measured through digital methods by imaging data (CBCT and X‐ray).

Results

Out of 61 sites, 20 were exposed (exposure rate: 32.8%). The width, height, and volume bone gain at P3 (mesh removal) were 5.22 ± 3.19 mm, 5.01 ± 2.83 mm, and 588.91 ± 361.23 mm3, respectively. From P2 (3D‐PITM+GBR) to P3, changes in bone gain were not statistically different in the different Terheyden classifications, the occurrence of exposure (p < .001 for all dimensions) and the different type of pseudo‐periosteum (p = .030 for width and p = .002 for height) were significantly correlated with the reduction of bone gain. Terheyden classification of the defect sites was significantly associated with the occurrence of exposure (p = .014) and types of the pseudo‐periosteum (p = .015).

Conclusion

The 3D‐PITM can be used in alveolar bone defects with different Terheyden classification, but cases with severe vertical bone defects have a greater chance of the 3D‐PITM exposure and the exposure can affect the outcome of bone augmentation.
Anti‐DFS70 antibodies are associated with atopic dermatitis and can cause misdiagnosis of connective tissue disease
Authors: Santler Bettina , Wimmer Louisa , Schlueter Bernhard , Ehrchen Jan
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) detected by HEp2 cell immunofluorescence staining are a characteristic finding in patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). However, even detection of highly elevated ANA is not conclusive for CTD and can result in misdiagnosis. Anti‐DFS70 antibodies are ANA, which may also be highly elevated in people without CTD. Thus, we wanted to evaluate whether they could cause misdiagnosis of CTD. Since anti‐DSF70 antibodies have been associated with atopic dermatitis (AD) in Japan, we wanted to investigate this association and its potential diagnostic relevance in Germany.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data of 40 patients referred for first consultation on CTD and prospectively analyzed the prevalence of anti‐DFS70 antibodies in 110 AD patients and 89 controls.

Results

We could not confirm CTD in 75% of our referred patients, 26% of whom had already received systemic treatments. DFS70‐typical fluorescence staining was detected in 35% and definitive anti‐DFS70 antibodies in 12.5% of these patients. DFS70‐typical fluorescence staining was detected in 22% of AD patients and anti‐DFS70 antibodies in 10% (versus 5.6% and 0% in control patients, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Anti‐DFS70 antibodies are significantly associated with AD and could be responsible for misdiagnosis of CTD.