bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of erythrocyte membrane mannoses to assess splenic function
Authors: Cao Huan , Mathur Abhinav , Robertson Charlotte , Antonopoulos Aristotelis , Henderson Sadie , Girard Louis‐Pierre , Wong Jin Hien , Davie Adam , Wright Sonja , Brewin John , Rees David C. , Dell Anne , Haslam Stuart M. , Vickers Mark A.
Published: April 2022

Red blood cells (RBCs) lose plasma membrane in the spleen as they age, but the cells and molecules involved are yet to be identified. Sickle cell disease and infection by Plasmodium falciparum cause oxidative stress that induces aggregates of cross‐linked proteins with N‐linked high‐mannose glycans (HMGs). These glycans can be recognised by mannose‐binding lectins, including the mannose receptor (CD206), expressed on macrophages and specialised phagocytic endothelial cells in the spleen to mediate the extravascular haemolysis characteristic of these diseases. We postulated this system might also mediate removal of molecules and membrane in healthy individuals. Surface expression of HMGs on RBCs from patients who had previously undergone splenectomy was therefore assessed: high levels were indeed observable as large membrane aggregates. Glycomic analysis by mass spectrometry identified a mixture of Man5‐9GlcNAc2 structures. HMG levels correlated well with manual pit counts (r = 0.75–0.85). To assess further whether HMGs might act as a splenic reticuloendothelial function test, we measured levels on RBCs from patients with potential functional hyposplenism, some of whom exhibited high levels that may indicate risk of complications.
Cyclic‐AMP signalling, MYC and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α intersect to regulate angiogenesis in B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Ethiraj Purushoth , Sasi Binu , Holder Kenneth N. , Lin An‐Ping , Qiu Zhijun , Jaafar Carine , Elkhalili Alia , Desai Parth , Saksena Annapurna , Ritter Jacob P. , Aguiar Ricardo C. T.
Published: April 2022

Angiogenesis and MYC expression associate with poor outcome in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). MYC promotes neo‐vasculature development but whether its deregulation in DLBCL contributes to angiogenesis is unclear. Examination of this relationship may uncover novel pathogenic regulatory circuitry as well as anti‐angiogenic strategies in DLBCL. Here, we show that MYC expression positively correlates with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and angiogenesis in primary DLBCL biopsies, independently of dual expressor status or cell‐of‐origin classification. We found that MYC promotes VEGFA expression, a correlation that was validated in large datasets of mature B‐cell tumours. Using DLBCL cell lines and patient‐derived xenograft models, we identified the second messenger cyclic‐AMP (cAMP) as a potent suppressor of MYC expression, VEGFA secretion and angiogenesis in DLBCL in normoxia. In hypoxia, cAMP switched targets and suppressed hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α, a master regulator of VEGFA/angiogenesis in low oxygen environments. Lastly, we used the phosphodiesterase 4b (Pde4b) knockout mouse to demonstrate that the cAMP/PDE4 axis exercises additional anti‐angiogenesis by directly targeting the lymphoma microenvironment. In conclusion, MYC could play a direct role in DLBCL angiogenesis, and modulation of cAMP levels, which can be achieved with clinical grade PDE4 inhibitors, has cell and non‐cell autonomous anti‐angiogenic activity in DLBCL.
Cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with normal weight obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rakhmat Iis Inayati , Putra Iwan Cahyo Santosa , Wibowo Arief , Henrina Joshua , Nugraha Gaga Irawan , Ghozali Mohammad , Syamsunarno Mas Rizky A. A. , Pranata Raymond , Akbar Mohammad Rizki , Achmad Tri Hanggono
Published: April 2022

Normal weight obesity (NWO) is a new emerging phenotype of obesity, defined as a normal body mass index with a high body fat percentage. While several studies have described the impact of NWO on cardiometabolic risk factors, the association between them remains uncertain. This meta‐analysis systematically evaluated cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with NWO compared to adults with normal weight lean (NWL). A systematic literature search was performed from the inception until September 21, 2021 in order to comprehensively search for all observational studies that had three important variables, including adults (age ≥18 years old), NWO and cardiometabolic risk factors including metabolic syndrome, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia or all laboratory findings related to cardiometabolic risk factors. Twenty‐four cross‐sectional studies with a total of 75 201 subjects are included in the qualitative and quantitative analysis. Overall, older age and female sex are more likely in NWO population. Compared to NWL, NWO is significantly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, including metabolic syndrome (OR = 2.24 [1.74, 2.89]; p < .001; I2 = 76%, Pheterogeneity < 0.001), hypertension (OR = 1.60[1.36, 1.89]; p < .001; I2 = 76%, Pheterogeneity < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.72[1.54, 1.92]; p < .001; I2 = 47%, Pheterogeneity < 0.001), dyslipidaemia (OR = 1.50 [1.03, 2.18]; p = .03; I2 = 94%, Pheterogeneity < 0.001) and other laboratory findings, except for C‐reactive protein in both sexes group; and adiponectin levels in female group. Our meta‐analysis showed that NWO was associated with cardiometabolic risk factors. Thus, the traditional definition of obesity using the BMI criteria should be challenged, as those with NWO might still be exposed to a heightened risk of cardiometabolic disorders. Nonetheless, further prospective cohort studies are needed better to understand this syndrome.
Intraclass correlation coefficients for weight loss cluster randomized trials in primary care: The PROPEL trial
Authors: Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Denstel Kara D. , Martin Corby K. , Newton Robert L. , Apolzan John W. , Mire Emily F. , Horswell Ronald , Johnson William D. , Brown Andrew W. , Zhang Dachuan ,   The PROPEL Research Group
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to compute intra‐class correlations (ICCs) for weight‐related and patient‐reported outcomes in a cluster randomized clinical trial (cRCT) for weight loss. Baseline and follow‐up data from the Promoting Successful Weight Loss in Primary Care in Louisiana (PROPEL) cRCT were used in this analysis. ICCs were computed for baseline and follow‐up measures, and changes in body weight, cardiometabolic risk factors and health‐related and weight‐related quality of life at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Baseline ICCs ranged from 0 for PROMIS measures of anxiety and fatigue to 0.055 for total cholesterol (median = 0.019). The ICCs were higher for changes and decreased over time during follow‐up. The ICCs for changes were highest in the pooled sample (intervention and usual care combined) followed by the intervention and usual care groups, respectively. The results demonstrated significant ICCs for several outcomes in a weight loss cRCT. The ICCs differed in magnitude depending on whether baseline versus longitudinal data were used, whether data were combined across treatment arms or were considered separately, and varied across the follow‐up period. All these factors must be considered when choosing an ICC to inform sample size estimates for future weight loss cRCTs conducted in primary care settings.
The impact of health status, diet and lifestyle on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: Narrative review
Authors: Alalwani Joud , Eljazzar Sereen , Basil Maya , Tayyem Reema
Published: April 2022

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the abnormal accumulation of triglycerides in the liver. NAFLD has a global prevalence of almost 30%, while incidence is rising with increasing levels of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and metabolic syndrome. Nutrition plays a significant role in both the prevention and treatment of NAFLD. Therefore, the aim of this literature review is to explore the associations between dietary, lifestyle and other risk factors and the risk for developing NAFLD. Dietary patterns, lifestyle behaviours, comorbidities, or a combination of any may contribute to either the progression or prevention of NAFLD. Having diabetes, hypertension, or having obesity might increase the progression of NAFLD if not well treated and controlled. Diet influences the progression of NAFLD; following a western diet or simply a high‐fat diet may contribute to the worsening of NAFLD and further progression to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis in later stages. On the other hand, the Mediterranean diet is the gold standard for both the treatment and prevention of NAFLD. Social behaviours, such as smoking, caffeine consumption and physical activity also play a role in the pathophysiology of NAFLD. Nutrition contributes significantly to the prevention or treatment of NAFLD, since this disease can be managed by diet and physical activity. However, further studies are still needed for a better understanding of the mechanisms of action. Randomized control trials are also needed to confirm findings in observational studies.
Interprofessional perspectives on care for patients with low anterior resection syndrome: A qualitative study
Authors: Pape Eva , Van Haver Dora , Lievrouw An , Van Nieuwenhove Yves , Van De Putte Dirk , Van Ongeval Johan , Rogge Sofie , Van Hecke Ann ,   the Belgian LARS collaborative group
Published: April 2022

Aim

Many patients are confronted with low anterior resection syndrome after rectal surgery. The perspectives of both healthcare professionals and patients on the impact of bowel problems may differ. This study aimed to explore experiences of healthcare professionals on how to provide, organise and optimise care for patients with low anterior resection syndrome from an interprofessional perspective.

Methods

An explorative qualitative design was used. Healthcare professionals were recruited in October 2018 in one general teaching hospital and one university hospital. Twenty one healthcare professionals from different professions caring for patients with low anterior resection syndrome were included in three focus group interviews.

Results

Healthcare professionals confirmed a lack of focus on patients who are confronted with low anterior resection syndrome and stated a need for a standardised approach of care. Additionally, three levels for care optimization emerged from the data: information before surgery with strong emphasis on the timing of informing, counselling of patients when confronted with low anterior resection syndrome and organisation of care.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals find it important to adopt the moment and amount of information to the coping mechanism and timing of the trajectory. Counselling and follow‐up of patients with LARS should be organised proactively and should not remain restricted to pharmacological and nutritional advice. A possible strategy is to develop and implement late effects nurse‐led clinics coordinated by the clinical nurse specialist.
Combination of resolvin E1 and lipoxin A4 promotes the resolution of pulpitis by inhibiting NF‐κB activation through upregulating sirtuin 7 in dental pulp fibroblasts
Authors: Liu Xiaochen , Wang Chunmeng , Pang Liping , Pan Liangliang , Zhang Qi
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To determine whether the combination of resolvin E1 (RvE1) and lipoxin A4 (LXA4) could promote resolution of pulpitis and to investigate the mechanism.

Materials and Methods

Preliminary screening was first conducted in four specialized pro‐resolving mediators (SPMs). Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and double‐immunofluorescence labelling were employed to assess the expression of RelA, SIRT1, SIRT6, SIRT7 and pro‐inflammatory factors. Dental pulp fibroblasts (DPFs) were transfected with siRNA to assess the biological role of SIRT7. A pulpitis model was utilized to evaluate the in vivo curative effect.

Results

Preliminary results showed that RvE1 and LXA4 reduced the expression of RelA more markedly than other two SPMs. Both RvE1 and LXA4 treatment downregulated nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation and increased the expression of SIRT1, SIRT6 and SIRT7, more so in combination than alone. Double‐immunofluorescence labelling showed that SIRT7 co‐localized with p‐p65 and Ac‐p65 in the nucleus. Inhibiting ChemR23 and ALX reversed the expression of RelA mRNA, p‐p65 and Ac‐p65 proteins, pro‐inflammatory factors, SIRT1, SIRT6 and SIRT7. Silencing SIRT7 significantly increased p‐p65 and Ac‐p65 protein levels and decreased SIRT1 and SIRT6 expression. In vivo experiments showed that combined administration of RvE1 and LXA4 promoted pulpitis markedly to resolution.

Conclusions

Combination of RvE1 and LXA4 effectively inhibited NF‐κB activation by upregulating SIRT7 expression in DPFs, leading to reduced production of pro‐inflammatory factors and promotion of pulpitis resolution.
The yawning gap: Waiting for cariology to germinate whilst periodontology is fruiting
Authors: Chong Gabriel Tse Feng
Published: April 2022

Introduction

The aim of this study is to investigate whether periodontology and cariology receive equal emphasis in dental education at two moments in time, thirteen years apart.

Materials and Methods

An online search was conducted in Nov 2021 of all the dental schools in ten English‐language speaking countries (U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia) to identify departments/divisions in the disciplines of periodontology, cariology, and conservative/restorative/operative dentistry. The results were then compared against the findings of a similar investigation that was conducted from July to October 2008.

Results

Of the 126 dental schools identified in 2021, information was available for 93 dental schools. Of these 93 schools, only 10 listed departments/divisions/disciplines of cariology, whereas 83 and 86 schools had listed periodontology and conservative/restorative/operative dentistry, respectively. Despite a doubling of the number of dental schools with a department/division/discipline of cariology from 2008 to 2021, the absolute gap in the number of departments/divisions/disciplines in the other two disciplines compared to cariology had widened during the thirteen years. In 2008, there were 70 more departments/divisions/disciplines in periodontology compared to cariology departments/divisions/disciplines. In 2021, there were 73 more departments/divisions/disciplines in periodontology. Additional information on research output was available for 90 dental schools in 2021, where 30 schools self‐identified as undertaking cariology research, whereas 68 and 47 schools undertook research in periodontology and conservative/restorative/operative dentistry, respectively.

Conclusions

Dental education does not give equal emphasis to periodontology and cariology, and the discipline of cariology is grossly neglected.
A comparative evaluation of student experience with artificial teeth used in pre‐clinical fixed prosthodontics post‐core undergraduate teaching programs
Authors: Dudley James
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Research is lacking in the use of artificial teeth for post‐core techniques in undergraduate fixed prosthodontics pre‐clinical education. The aim of this study was to compare the reasons for selection and explore the direct student experiences with artificial teeth used in two pre‐clinical fixed prosthodontics post‐core technique teaching programs conducted in consecutive years.

Materials and Methods

Fourth year undergraduate dental students who had completed the fixed prosthodontics pre‐clinical program were invited to complete an anonymous online surveys. Information was requested on the use and direct student experiences with artificial and natural teeth for post‐core techniques. Quantitative data was summarised and qualitative data was clustered into topics. The reasons for selection and use of artificial and natural teeth were compared within and between the two programs.

Results

36% of 70 respondents in 2020 chose to use one or more artificial teeth for the post‐core exercises in the pre‐clinical program compared with 94% of 77 respondents in 2021 (p < .05). The use was driven by difficulty in sourcing appropriate natural teeth. Respondents reported “ease of use” as the dominant positive user experience with the main negatives being “unrealistic simulation of natural teeth” and “different surface texture/feel when cutting.”

Conclusion

Artificial teeth were reported to provide an appropriate and realistic simulation experience compared with extracted natural teeth and were easier to source. Students focussed on the practicalities of sourcing artificial teeth, associated costs and ease of use ahead of conceivable educational benefits. Cost limited the more widespread use of artificial teeth.
Predictors of clinical performance in comprehensive care cases in undergraduate dentists
Authors: Agou Shoroog Hassan , Imam Ahmad Yahya
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Achieving a high grade in the final‐year comprehensive clinical care (CCC) course is not only important for the individual candidate but also to ensure competency of students as they transition from dental school into independent practice. Here, we aimed to identify predictors of success in the CCC that might prove useful to identify which, if any, students need focused intervention to improve their performance in the CCC.

Materials and methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of two consecutive cohorts (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) of final‐year (Year six) dental students (n = 180 females and n = 150 males) attending [King Abdulaziz University], Saudi Arabia. Age, gender, cumulative GPA to the start of Year six and assessment results were tabulated and analysed as independent variables in binary logistic regression to identify predictors of the final case grade (≤69% or >70%).

Results

Year five GPA (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02–1.12; p = .004) and female gender (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.12–4.36; p = .02) were significantly associated with an increased odds of achieving a final case grade >70%. In particular, female students were over twice as likely as male students to achieve a higher score in their final case assessment.

Discussion

This study suggests that gender may influence final performance in the CCC. The better performance of females in the final CCC course than their male counterparts suggests that there may be a narrowing or even reversal of the historical gender gap in dental school performance.

Conclusions

Both cognitive (GPA) and other (i.e. gender) factors influence clinical dental performance. Further work is required to establish what instructional modifications are required to accommodate these gender differences in CCC courses to pave the way for personalised teaching approaches to optimise educational outcomes.
Expanding PAM recognition and enhancing base editing activity of Cas9 variants with non‐PI domain mutations derived from xCas9
Authors: Xie Lifang , Hu Yun , Li Li , Jiang Lurong , Jiao Yaoge , Wang Yanhong , Zhou Lifang , Tao Rui , Qu Junyan , Chen Qiang , Yao Shaohua
Published: April 2022

The recognition of protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) is a key factor for the CRISPR (i.e. clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/CRISPR‐associated 9 (Cas9) system to distinguish foreign DNAs from the host genome, and also significantly restricts the targeting scope of the system during genome‐editing applications. Structurally, the PAM interacting (PI) domain, which usually is located in the C‐terminus of Cas9 proteins, directly binds to PAM and plays a key role in determining the recognition specificity. However, several lines of evidence showed that other regions of Cas9 protein beyond the PI domain might also play roles in PAM interaction. Here, we constructed a mosaic SpCas9 protein (xCas9‐NG) by fusing the PI domain of SpCas9 PAM variant, Cas9‐NG with the non‐PI fragment of xCas9 protein that contains multiple amino acid substitutions. We found that non‐PI fragment of xCas9 expanded PAM recognition of the Cas9‐NG PI domain. In addition, xCas9‐NG showed an improved editing efficiency in the majority of targets harboring xCas9 and Cas9‐NG PAMs. Importantly, this finding was also successfully extended to other Cas9 variants, including SpRY and the non‐G SpCas9 series. Together, our work expands the target scope of SpCas9 editing system and demonstrates the notion that the non‐PI domain fragment plays an important role in PAM restriction.
Multiaxial fatigue behavior of low‐temperature closed‐die forged ZK60 extrusion under proportional and non‐proportional loading
Authors: Karparvarfard Seyyed Mohamad Hasan , Roostaei Ali Asghar , Behravesh Seyed Behzad , Jahed Hamid
Published: April 2022

Uniaxial and multiaxial fatigue characteristics of as‐extruded and extruded‐then‐forged ZK60 magnesium alloys were examined to understand the influence of low‐temperature forging on its deformation mechanics. Upon forging, basal texture weakening and grain refinement occurred in ZK60 extrusion. Based on uniaxial results, forging process led to improvements in quasi‐static tensile strength and axial cyclic response in high‐cycle fatigue regime, whereas shear responses remained unaffected. Biaxial non‐proportional tests demonstrated that changing phase angle shift between axial and torsional waveforms had no effect on cyclic axial response, contrary to the shear response. Lastly, critical‐plane and energy‐based life prediction models were assessed.
Similar values, different expectations: How do patients and providers view ‘health’ and perceive the healthcare experience?
Authors: Natafgi Nabil , Ladeji Olayinka , Blackwell Shanikque , Hong Yoon Duk , Graham Gail , Cort Marcia , Mullins C. Daniel
Published: April 2022

Introduction

No one can argue on the importance of health in one's life. However, the value of health in the context of other priorities for individuals is not always as clear. Further, patients' experience with the healthcare system is rarely contrasted with the service providers' expectations. The aim of this paper is to examine and compare patients' and providers' own definitions of health and their perceptions of the healthcare delivery experience from the lens of residents and providers in West Baltimore, Maryland.

Methods

This was a qualitative study with semi‐structured focus groups (15 sessions) and individual in‐depth interviews (21 interviews) with 94 participants. Two independent coders thematically analysed the transcripts.

Results

Patients identified five areas where health systems can help them stay healthy or become healthier: affordability and costs of care; accessibility; clinician/patient communication; addressing social determinants; and stigma and trust. Providers acknowledged that the healthcare experience is not always perfect. While the medical team focuses on conversations that enhance medical care, patients are expecting providers to touch on subjects beyond medical care.

Conclusions

Patients and providers need to consider that although they have a common value towards health, there is still a gap in what users expect and what providers can offer. To further align those expectations, there is a need for increasing involvement of patient in care administration and improving dialogue between the parties about these differences.

Patient or Public Contribution

A Stakeholder Advisory Board (SAB)—comprised of a patient, two community leaders, a physician and two healthcare administrators—was instrumental in codeveloping the study material (e.g., interview guides), engaging patients in the research process, identifying participants and codeveloping dissemination material. Two SAB members—Gail Graham, a patient consultant/professor, and Marcia Cort, a physician—are coauthors.
Relationship among paleosol types, depositional settings, and paleoclimates in Tetori group (Lower Cretaceous, central Japan)
Authors: Kuroshima Kensuke , Fujita Masato , Kakizaki Yoshihiro , Shiraishi Fumito
Published: April 2022

One of the key areas and periods for dinosaur evolution is considered to be Early Cretaceous East Asia, of which paleoclimate, that affected dinosaur diversity, needs to be accurately estimated. This study reconstructed paleoenvironmental information from two paleosol sections of the Lower Cretaceous Tetori Group in Hokuriku province, Japan. Elemental and isotopic compositions indicate that the two sections (Sections K5 and T1) formed under similar mean annual temperature (MAT) and mean annual precipitation (MAP) but exhibit significantly different paleosol colors (red in the Section K5, and gray in the Section T1) and mineralogy of carbonate nodules (dolomite–siderite in the Section K5, and dolomite–calcite in the Section T1). In addition, the oxygen isotopic ratio of carbonate minerals in the Section K5 was significantly low. The differences in sedimentary features and isotopic composition were considered to reflect the differences of seasonal climatic factors (e.g., monsoon) and local settings (e.g., drainage condition) despite the two sections exhibiting similar MAT and MAP. The results of this study suggest that the northeastern margin of East Asia, where the Tetori Group was deposited, had temperate and humid climate with monsoonal contrast in humidity during Aptian to Albian.
What are the core competencies of a mental health nurse? A concept mapping study involving five stakeholder groups
Authors: Moyo Nompilo , Jones Martin , Gray Richard
Published: April 2022

Mental health nurses aim to provide high‐quality care that is safe and person‐centred. Service users require individualized care, responsive to their preferences, needs, and values. The views of service users, mental health nurses, nurse academics, psychiatrists, and nurse managers about the core competencies of mental health nurses have not been explored. Our study aimed to describe and contrast the views of multiple stakeholder groups on the core competencies of mental health nurses. Concept mapping is a six‐step mixed‐methods study design that combines qualitative data with principal component analysis to produce a two‐dimensional concept map. Forty‐eight people participated in the study from five stakeholder groups that included service users and clinicians. The final concept map had eight clusters: assessment and management of risk; understanding recovery principles; person‐ and family‐centred care; good communication skills; knowledge about mental disorders and treatment; evaluating research and promoting physical health; a sense of humour; and physical and psychological interventions. There were important differences in how service users and health professionals ranked the relative importance of the clusters. Service users reported the understanding recovery principles cluster as the most important, whilst health professionals ranked the assessment and management of risk group the most important. There may be a disconnect between what service users and other stakeholders perceive to be the core competencies of mental health nurses. There is a need for more research to examine the differing perspectives of service users and health professionals on the core competencies of mental health nurses.
In vitro study of the mesenchymal stem cells‐conditional media role in skin wound healing process: A systematic review
Authors: Heydari Mohammad Bagher , Ghanbari‐Movahed Zahra , Heydari Maryam , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein
Published: April 2022

Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)‐conditioned medium (CM) offers a potential opportunity in the skin wound healing treatment. In this systematic review, an overview of the knowledge on this topic has been provided. A multistep search of the PubMed, Scopus and Science Direct database has been performed to identify papers on MSCs‐conditional media used in skin wound healing. Eligibility checks were performed based upon predefined selection criteria. Of the 485 articles initially identified, consequently, only 96 articles apparently related to MSC‐conditional media were initially assessed for eligibility. Finally, the 32 articles, strictly regarding the in vitro use of MSCs‐conditional media in skin wounds, were analysed. The information analysed highlights the efficacy of MSCs‐conditional media on skin wound healing in vitro models. The outcome of this review may be used to guide pre‐clinical and clinical studies on the role of MSCs‐conditional media in skin wound healing.
The Morality of Party Switching
Authors: Bengtson Andreas
Published: April 2022

Party switching by members of Parliament is a common phenomenon in democracies. Despite several empirical investigations of this phenomenon, party switching has not yet been investigated from a moral point of view. This article aims to fill this gap. By analyzing party switching from the point of view of relational egalitarianism, the article argues that party switching may be wrong because (i) the politician thereby acts on selfish interests which should be excluded from their decision‐making as a representative; (ii) the politician thereby treats their constituents and/or party members paternalistically; and (iii) it expresses relational inequality between the member of Parliament and their voters or between the member of Parliament and their party members. There are instances, however, in which party switching is not wrong, and the last part of the article discusses what this means for whether party switching should be prohibited.
Use of SEM/EDX methods for the analysis of ambient particulate matter adhering to the skin surface
Authors: Mirakovski D. , Damevska K. , Simeonovski V. , Nikolovska S. , Boev B. , Petrov A. , Sijakova Ivanova T. , Zendelska A. , Hadzi‐Nikolova M. , Boev I. , Dimov G. , Darlenski R. , Kazandjieva J. , Damevska S. , Situm M.
Published: April 2022

Background

The skin is exposed to numerous particulate and gaseous air pollutants. The ones that need particular attention are the particles that adhere to the skin surface, which can later cause direct skin damage. This study aimed to characterize air pollution (AP) particles adhered to the human skin by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with X‐ray dispersive energy spectrometry (EDX).

Methods

Tape stripping was performed from six healthy volunteers exposed to urban AP to collect stratum corneum samples from the cheeks and forehead. The samples were analysed using SEM equipped with EDX system with a silicon drift detector at an accelerating voltage of 20 keV. After the preliminary examination, the particles were located and counted using 1000× magnification. Each particle was analysed, increasing magnification up to 5000× for precise dimension measurement and elemental composition analysis. At least 100 fields or a surface of approximately 1 mm2 were examined.

Results

Particles adhered to the skin were identified in all samples, with a particle load ranging from 729 to 4525. The average area and perimeter of all particles identified were 302 ± 260 μm2 and 51 ± 23 μm subsequently, while the equivalent circular diameter was, on average, 14 ± 6 μm. The particles were classified into ten groups based on morphology and elemental composition. Chlorides were the most numerous particle group (21.9%), followed by carbonaceous organic particles (20.3%), silicates (18%), carbonates (16.4%), metal‐rich particles (14%), and a minor number of bioaerosols, quartz‐like, and fly ash particles.

Conclusion

The SEM–EDX analysis provides evidence of the contamination of exposed skin to various airborne PM of natural or anthropogenic origin. This method may provide new insights into the link between exposure to AP and AP‐induced skin damage.
Mite damage provides refuges and affects preference and performance of a subsequent herbivorous moth
Authors: Paz‐Neto Antônio de Almeida , Calvet Érica Costa , Melo José Wagner da Silva , de Lima Debora Barbosa , Gondim Manoel Guedes Correa , Janssen Arne
Published: April 2022

Damage by herbivores often modifies plant structure and physiology, which may change the behaviour and performance of future herbivores. Here, we studied such interactions among the major coconut pest, the mite Aceria guerreronis (Acari: Eriophyidae), and two minor pests, the mite Steneotarsonemus concavuscutum (Acari: Tarsonemidae) and the moth Atheloca bondari (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). All these species develop in the meristematic zone of coconuts, which is difficult to access because of the small opening between the epicarp and perianth. Both mites cause necrosis on the epicarp of the nuts, which may facilitate access to the meristematic zone by caterpillars of the moth. However, the caterpillars co‐occur predominantly with A. guerreronis and not with S. concavuscutum. We show that caterpillars did not colonize nuts without mites and colonized nuts with A. guerreronis most frequently, in agreement with the openings caused by this mite and caterpillar size. When the opening between epicarp and perianth was artificially increased, caterpillars also colonized nuts without mites and nuts with S. concavuscutum. When offered a choice, caterpillars preferred nuts with easy access to the meristematic region, regardless of the presence of mites. Caterpillars performed better on the A. guerreronis‐infested nuts than on other nuts, but moth females did not preferentially oviposit in coconut bunches infested with mites. Hence, caterpillars, not adults, select suitable feeding sites within a bunch of coconuts, and A. guerreronis facilitates the infestation of coconuts by A. bondari. We discuss how damage by mites affects the relevance of A. bondari as a coconut pest.
Design and development of a circular disc type efficient automatic decorticator for Charoli (Buchanania lanzan)
Authors: Nishad Praween , Singh Jaspal , Naik Rajesh Kumar , Patel Shadanan , Mangaraj Shukadev , Mishra Niraj , Thakur Rajeev Ranjan
Published: April 2022

The manual decortication process of charoli seeds by beating the dried seeds on the ground with a hand hammer or stone and, by domestic grinder is a laborious, inefficient, time‐consuming as well as uneconomical process. Therefore, an attempt has been taken toward the automation of the charoli decortication process. The decorticator performance was evaluated at three levels of disc speeds, disc clearances, and different moisture levels of charoli seed viz. 197, 246, and 286 rpm; 6, 7, and 8 mm; and 7.83, 8.57; and 9.04% wb, respectively. The selected input parameters were optimized by using the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimum value of disc speed, disc clearance, and seed moisture content was found to be 197 rpm, 7 mm, and 9.04% (wb), respectively. The corresponding response values in terms of decorticating efficiency, whole kernel, and broken kernel percentage at optimum conditions were recorded as 92.5, 21.6, and 3%, respectively.

Novelty impact statement

The decorticating capacity of the developed decorticator was found to be 70 kg per hour which was higher than the existing decorticator. Since the developed machine was automatically operated and each unit operation was sequentially and continuously carried out with no manual intervention, the ideal time in each decortication step was absent and subsequently, higher capacity was achieved. The efficiency of the decorticator was found to be 92.5%. The higher capacity and kernel recovery with no human drudgery and lower cost of decortication imply the significance of the development of the machine.
Risk factors for anti‐drug antibody formation to infliximab: Secondary analyses of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Brun Marthe Kirkesæther , Goll Guro Løvik , Jørgensen Kristin Kaasen , Sexton Joseph , Gehin Johanna Elin , Sandanger Øystein , Olsen Inge Christoffer , Klaasen Rolf Anton , Warren David John , Mørk Cato , Kvien Tore K. , Jahnsen Jørgen , Bolstad Nils , Haavardsholm Espen A. , Syversen Silje Watterdal
Published: April 2022

Background

Anti‐drug antibodies (ADAb) frequently form early in the treatment course of infliximab and other tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, leading to treatment failure and adverse events.

Objective

To identify risk factors for ADAb in the early phase of infliximab treatment.

Methods

Patients (n= 410) with immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases who initiated infliximab treatment were included in the 38‐week Norwegian Drug Monitoring Trial (NOR‐DRUM) A and randomised 1:1 to therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) or standard therapy. Serum levels of infliximab and ADAb were measured at each infusion. Possible risk factors for ADAb formation were assessed using logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

ADAb were detected in 78 (19%) patients. A diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (odds ratio [OR], 1.9 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0–3.6]) and lifetime smoking (OR, 2.0 [CI 1.1–3.6]) were baseline risk factors, while baseline use of concomitant immunosuppressors (OR, 0.4 [CI 0.2–0.8]) and a diagnosis of spondyloarthritis (SpA) (OR, 0.4 [CI 0.2–0.8]) reduced the risk of ADAb. Higher disease activity during follow‐up (OR, 1.1 [CI 1.0–1.1]) and “drug holidays” of more than 11 weeks (OR, 4.1 [CI 1.2–13.8]) increased the risk of ADAb, whereas higher infliximab doses (OR, 0.1 [CI 0.0–0.3) and higher serum infliximab concentrations (OR, 0.7 [CI 0.6–0.8]) reduced the risk of immunogenicity.

Conclusion

Several risk factors for ADAb formation during early‐phase infliximab treatment were identified. This knowledge provides a basis for treatment strategies to mitigate the formation of ADAb and identify patients in whom these measures are of particular importance.
Wear and Fracture Resistance of 3D‐Printed Denture Teeth: An In Vitro Comparative Study
Authors: Gad Mohammed M. , Alghamdi Rahaf , Al‐Ghamdi Raghad , Al‐Jefri Alaa , Akhtar Sultan , Khan Soban Qadir , Alalawi Haidar , al‐Qarni Faisal D.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The longevity of removable prostheses is mostly influenced by the properties of the used materials. The ability of the material to withstand high occlusal loads without deformation can enhance patient satisfaction and quality of life. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the wear and fracture resistance of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed teeth compared with commercially available acrylic resin teeth.

Materials and methods

A total of 40 prefabricated acrylic teeth and 40 3D‐printed teeth were prepared in two forms: anatomical for fracture resistance or flat for wear resistance (n = 10). For wear evaluation, specimens were scanned at baseline and then subjected to thermal cycling (10,000 cycles). This was followed by a chewing simulator (60,000 cycles) against either metal or natural tooth. Then, the specimens were scanned again. Wear analysis was performed by superimposing the standard tessellation language (STL) files from baseline and the final scans with the aid of GOM Inspect 2020 software. Fracture resistance was assessed with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min before and after thermal cycling. Data were analyzed with two‐independent t‐test and two‐way ANOVA (α = 0.05).

Results

The 3D‐printed teeth showed significantly lower wear resistance than the prefabricated ones with both antagonists (metal, p = 0.049; natural tooth, p = 0.021). The fracture resistance of the 3D‐printed teeth was significantly higher than that of the prefabricated teeth before thermocycling (p = 0.042). After thermal cycling, the fracture resistance of both groups was decreased with no significant differences between them (p = 0.266).

Conclusions

The 3D‐printed teeth showed lower wear resistance and higher fracture resistance than the prefabricated ones. Thermal cycling negatively affected the fracture resistance of 3D‐printed teeth.
Self‐Reported Anxiety Ratings in Children With and Without Food Allergies and Teacher Knowledge of Food Allergies
Authors: Kanter Ashley B. , Yasik Anastasia E. , Zaccario Michele L. , Saviano Jenna C.
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Researchers have found a relationship between having food allergies and anxiety in children. Anxiety may relate to others' lack of food allergy knowledge. This study investigated the relationship between having a food allergy and self‐reported anxiety among children. Furthermore, knowledge of food allergies among children without food allergies and teachers was explored.

METHODS

Children with food allergies and their parents each completed a perceived food allergy severity questionnaire. Children without food allergies completed a food allergy knowledge measure. All children completed a self‐reported anxiety measure. Teachers completed a questionnaire investigating knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about food allergies. Correlational analyses and analyses of variance were conducted.

RESULTS

Overall anxiety was significantly higher in children with food allergies than in children without food allergies. When controlling for the effects of sex and age, children with food allergies had significantly higher social phobia and school phobia. Teachers correctly answered 69.7% of knowledge‐based questions about food allergies; children without food allergies correctly answered 62.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings highlight the need for an integrated approach in which families, school personnel, psychologists and other mental health professionals, and medical professionals work together to increase awareness about the multifaceted needs of children with food allergies.
Antiviral activities of Glycyrrhiza uralensis components against Singapore grouper iridovirus
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Liu Mingzhu , Wei Hongling , Huang Lin , Yu Qing , Huang Shuaishuai , Li Jingyuan , Li Pengfei
Published: April 2022

Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) is a serious pathogen that negatively impacts grouper aquaculture. Because of its 90% fatality rate, effective medications that control SGIV infection are urgently needed. Glycyrrhiza uralensis is a well‐known medicinal plant that contains active ingredients with antiviral, antibacterial, and other biological activities. In this study, we evaluated the application of G. uralensis components against SGIV infection. The safe working concentrations of G. uralensis components, which were identified by light microscope observation and CCK‐8 detection, were as follows: aqueous extract (GUF) ≤ 10 mg/ml, glycyrrhizin ≤ 100 μg/ml, glycyrrhetinic acid ≤ 50 μg/ml, liquiritin ≤ 25 μg/ml, isoliquiritigenin ≤ 10 μg/ml, and liquiritigenin ≤ 10 μg/ml. The ingredients did not have significant effects against SGIV infection, whereas GUF showed significant anti‐SGIV infection activity in a concentration‐dependent manner, and it also destroyed the structure of virus particles. Therefore, GUF might impact the binding of virus particles to cell receptors and the stage of virus replication in host cells. These results show that G. uralensis aqueous extracts have good anti‐SGIV effects and great potential for treating SGIV infection.
Interpersonal Relationships and Legislative Collaboration in Congress
Authors: Curry James M. , Roberts Jason M.
Published: April 2022

Do interpersonal relationships among and between representatives and senators affect legislative collaboration in the contemporary Congress? The extant literature on Congress suggests interpersonal dimensions of life on Capitol Hill should play a minimal role in the legislative process. However, research in other fields, including psychology, finds that relationships are crucially important within organizations. In addition, many contemporary accounts of congressional deal‐making highlight the role of personal relationships. Drawing on interviews with high‐level congressional staff, and data on CODEL trips taken by members of Congress, we show that interpersonal relationships help promote collaboration across the aisle. These findings have implications for how we understand the contours of conflict and cooperation on Capitol Hill.
SepF supports the recruitment of the DNA translocase SftA to the Z‐ring
Authors: Saaki Terrens N. V. , Teng Zihao , Wenzel Michaela , Ventroux Magali , Carballido‐Lόpez Rut , Noirot‐Gros Marie Francoise , Hamoen Leendert W.
Published: April 2022

In many bacteria, cell division begins before the sister chromosomes are fully segregated. Specific DNA translocases ensure that the chromosome is removed from the closing septum, such as the transmembrane protein FtsK in Escherichia coli. Bacillus subtilis contains two FtsK homologues, SpoIIIE and SftA. SftA is active during vegetative growth whereas SpoIIIE is primarily active during sporulation and pumps the chromosome into the spore compartment. FtsK and SpoIIIE contain several transmembrane helices, however, SftA is assumed to be a cytoplasmic protein. It is unknown how SftA is recruited to the cell division site. Here we show that SftA is a peripheral membrane protein, containing an N‐terminal amphipathic helix that reversibly anchors the protein to the cell membrane. Using a yeast two‐hybrid screen we found that SftA interacts with the conserved cell division protein SepF. Based on extensive genetic analyses and previous data we propose that the septal localization of SftA depends on either SepF or the cell division protein FtsA. Since SftA seems to interfere with the activity of SepF, and since inactivation of SepF mitigates the sensitivity of a ∆sftA mutant for ciprofloxacin, we speculate that SftA might delay septum synthesis when chromosomal DNA is in the vicinity.
The apple FERONIA receptor‐like kinase MdMRLK2 negatively regulates Valsa canker resistance by suppressing defence responses and hypersensitive reaction
Authors: Jing Yuanyuan , Zhan Minghui , Li Chunrong , Pei Tingting , Wang Qi , Li Pengmin , Ma Fengwang , Liu Changhai
Published: April 2022

Valsa canker, caused by the fungus Valsa mali, is one of the most destructive diseases of apple trees in China and other East Asian countries. The plant receptor‐like kinase FERONIA is involved in plant cell growth, development, and immunity. However, little is known about the function of FERONIA in apple defence against V. mali. In this study, we found that MdMRLK2 was highly induced by V. mali in twigs of V. mali‐susceptible Malus mellana but not in those of the resistant species Malus yunnaensis. 35S:MdMRLK2 apple plants showed compromised resistance relative to wild‐type (WT) plants. Further analyses indicated that 35S:MdMRLK2 apple plants had enhanced abscisic acid (ABA) levels and reduced salicylic acid (SA) levels relative to the WT on V. mali infection. MdMRLK2 overexpression also suppressed polyphenol accumulation and inhibited the activities of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), β‐1,3‐glucanase (GLU), and chitinase (CHT) during V. mali infection. Moreover, MdMRLK2 interacted with MdHIR1, a hypersensitive‐induced response protein, and suppressed the MdHIR1‐mediated hypersensitive reaction (HR), probably by impairing MdHIR1 self‐interaction. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that overexpression of MdMRLK2 compromises Valsa canker resistance, probably by (a) altering ABA and SA levels, (b) suppressing polyphenol accumulation, (c) inhibiting PAL, GLU, and CHT activities, and (d) blocking MdHIR1‐mediated HR by disrupting MdHIR1 self‐interaction.
The evolutionary and molecular features of the broad‐host‐range plant pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Derbyshire Mark C. , Newman Toby E. , Khentry Yuphin , Owolabi Taiwo Akeem
Published: April 2022

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a pathogenic fungus that infects hundreds of plant species, including many of the world's most important crops. Key features of S. sclerotiorum include its extraordinary host range, preference for dicotyledonous plants, relatively slow evolution, and production of protein effectors that are active in multiple host species. Plant resistance to this pathogen is highly complex, typically involving numerous polymorphisms with infinitesimally small effects, which makes resistance breeding a major challenge. Due to its economic significance, S. sclerotiorum has been subjected to a large amount of molecular and evolutionary research. In this updated pathogen profile, we review the evolutionary and molecular features of S. sclerotiorum and discuss avenues for future research into this important species.