bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hereditary myotonia in cats associated with a new homozygous missense variant p.Ala331Pro in the muscle chloride channel ClC‐1
Authors: Corrêa Sílvia , Basso Roberta Martins , Cerri Fabricio Moreira , de Oliveira‐Filho José Paes , Araújo João Pessoa , Torelli Sandra Regina , Salán Livia Pinheiro Chagas da Cunha , Salán Maurício Oliveira , Macedo Isabella Zeque , Borges Alexandre Secorun
Published: September 2023

Three‐related cats were evaluated for a history of short‐strided gait and temporary recumbency after startle. Neurological examination, electromyography (EMG), muscle biopsies, and a chloride voltage‐gated channel 1 (CLCN1) molecular study were performed. Clinically, all 3 cats presented myotonia with warm‐up phenomenon and myotonic discharges during EMG examination. Muscle biopsies showed normal muscle architecture and variation in the diameter of myofiber size with the presence of numerous hypertrophic fibers. The molecular study revealed a missense variant (c.991G>C, p.Ala331Pro) in exon 9 of the CLCN1 gene, responsible for the first chloride channel extracellular loop. This mutation was screened in 104 control phenotypically normal unrelated cats, and all were wildtype. The alanine at this position is conserved in ClC‐1 (chloride channel protein 1) in different species, and 2 mutations at this amino acid position are associated with human myotonia. This is the third CLCN1 mutation described in the literature associated with hereditary myotonia in cats and the first in domestic animals located in an extracellular muscle ClC‐1 loop.
Seismic robustness computational methodology of community building portfolio coupled with water supply network based on probability‐cloud model
Authors: Zhang Juan , Zhang Mingyuan
Published: September 2023

A novel seismic robustness computational methodology is proposed for community building portfolio (CBP) coupled with lifeline networks based on probability‐cloud model. This method consists of three interrelated submodels, respectively, the building fragility analysis model of the main subsystem CPB, the water supply network (WSN) hydraulic simulation analysis model of the secondary subsystem WSN, and the probability‐cloud model. The proposed method can be used to predict the seismic robustness of hierarchical systems. The computational methodology uses a joint probabilistic model combined with building fragility analysis and WSN hydraulic simulation analysis to evaluate the robustness of CPB coupled with WSN. Due to the uncertainty in robustness analysis, a probabilistic‐cloud model procedure considering the uncertainty in seismic robustness is proposed. The procedure enables a qualitative and quantitative integrated analysis of the robustness of CBP coupled with WSN. Finally, a community with 1406 buildings in China is simulated to illustrate the method. The research outcomes can provide a useful reference for the seismic robustness analysis of CBP coupled with WSN.
Freedom and Necessity of the Creative Act: The Cosmological Aspect of Kandinsky's Principle of Inner Necessity
Authors: Moulin Isabelle
Published: September 2023

This article argues that freedom in the divine creative act is better understood as a freedom of consent rather than freedom of will. However, even if some conundrums are thus avoided, one has to face the apparent antinomy between both God's creative act from His very nature and God's absolute freedom. Freedom of consent, as defined in David Burrell's works, finds a resonance with the French spiritualist philosopher, Henri Bergson, who resolves the apparent antinomy by showing that the necessity of the action springs from the nature of the self in a way that does not contradict the free perpetual auto‐creation of the consciousness. Notwithstanding its defects, the artisan model found in Genesis allows one to draw a parallelism between the divine creative act and artistic creation. Kandinsky faced precisely such an antinomy, for his principle of inner necessity combines both the absolute free creative power of the artist and the necessity emerging from the different levels of the cosmic order. To exemplify Kandinsky's solution, this article offers an original reading of Painting with White Border, based on Kandinsky's analysis in Reminiscences.
The genetic and physiological basis of Arabidopsis thaliana tolerance to Pseudomonas viridiflava
Authors: Duque‐Jaramillo Alejandra , Ulmer Nina , Alseekh Saleh , Bezrukov Ilja , Fernie Alisdair R. , Skirycz Aleksandra , Karasov Talia L. , Weigel Detlef
Published: September 2023

The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas viridiflava colonizes > 50 agricultural crop species and is the most common Pseudomonas in the phyllosphere of European Arabidopsis thaliana populations. Belonging to the P. syringae complex, it is genetically and phenotypically distinct from well‐characterized P. syringae sensu stricto. Despite its prevalence, we lack knowledge of how A. thaliana responds to its native isolates at the molecular level. Here, we characterize the host response in an A. thaliana – P. viridiflava pathosystem.

We measured host and pathogen growth in axenic infections and used immune mutants, transcriptomics, and metabolomics to determine defense pathways influencing susceptibility to P. viridiflava infection.

Infection with P. viridiflava increased jasmonic acid (JA) levels and the expression of ethylene defense pathway marker genes. The immune response in a susceptible host accession was delayed compared with a tolerant one. Mechanical injury rescued susceptibility, consistent with an involvement of JA.

The JA/ethylene pathway is important for suppression of P. viridiflava, yet suppression capacity varies between accessions. Our results shed light on how A. thaliana can suppress the ever‐present P. viridiflava, but further studies are needed to understand how P. viridiflava evades this suppression to spread broadly across A. thaliana populations.
Depletion of TIAR impairs embryogenesis via inhibiting zygote genome transcribe
Authors: Liu Ke , Dai Weilong , Ju Jiaqian , Li Weijian , Chen Qianqian , Li Juan , Liu Honglin
Published: September 2023

T cell intracellular antigen 1 related protein (TIAR), an RNA‐binding protein (RBP), regulates pre‐messenger RNA (pre‐mRNA) alternative splicing, has been suggested to affect the maturation of primordial germ cells and early mouse embryo development. However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. In this study, we revealed that TIAR was primarily located in the nucleus at the 2‐cell stage embryo, accompanied by highly active transcription. Using immunofluorescence staining and western blotting, we first described the localization and expression level of TIAR during the whole period of oocyte matured and embryogenesis. Knocked down of TIAR could significantly inhibit transcribed and blocked the early mouse embryo development. Combined with RNAP II inhibitor and pre‐RNA splicing inhibitor treatment, we further supposed that TIAR might affect transcription at 2‐cell via regulating pre‐mRNA splicing, and then regulate early mouse embryo development. Collectively, our results provided a novel and potential understanding of TIAR in embryogenesis, suggesting TIAR is required for transcription and embryonic development.
Association of MTNR1A and GDF9 gene allelles with the reproductive performance, response to oestrus induction treatments and prolificacy, in improved and non‐improved local indigenous sheep breeds
Authors: Antonopoulou Danai , Giantsis Ioannis A. , Symeon George K. , Avdi Melpomeni
Published: September 2023

Sheep farming plays a crucial role for Mediterranean countries, wherefrom a plethora of dairy products is produced. Yet, numerous indigenous sheep breeds in temperate latitudes such as the Mediterranean present a serious drawback that milk production is impaired by the seasonality of reproduction. Towards the efforts for reduction of this phenomenon, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare different oestrus synchronization treatments, as well as to associate two genes alleles', namely the MTNR1A and the GDF9, with the response to those treatments. Three indigenous breeds were investigated (Florina, Chios and Karagouniko sheep) and inside each breed three different oestrus synchronization treatments were applied (A: intravaginal sponges, B: GNRH use and C: male effect). In group A, Florina ewes expressed oestrus at 90% in July and fecundity was 85%. Karagouniko and Chios ewes exhibited an oestrus expression of 100% with fecundity rates at 95% and 99%, respectively. In group B, Florina ewes expressed oestrus at 60% with fecundity at 57%, Karagouniko ewes expressed oestrus at 65% with fecundity at 54%, whereas Chios breed animals expressed oestrus at 87% with fecundity rate at 85%. In group C, 68% of the Florina breed expressed oestrus 20–25 days post ram induction, whereas this proportion was 84% and 94%, for Karagouniko and Chios breed, respectively. For the molecular analysis, partial segments of the two genes were sequenced and analysed, whereas alleles were scored based on the detected SNPs. All frequencies of the four detected SNPs in MTNR1A gene were statistically and significantly different in ewes that expressed oestrus in comparison with ewes that did not express oestrus in Florina and Karagouniko breeds concerning all treatments. Two SNP's were detected in GDF9 gene, G1 and FecG, from which, only the FecG mutation exhibited statistically significant difference in twins and triplets than in singles in Florina and Karagouniko breeds.
Big five personality and COVID‐19 beliefs, behaviors, and vaccine intentions: The mediating role of political ideology
Authors: Panish Adam R. , Ludeke Steven G. , Vitriol Joseph A.
Published: September 2023

Because personal health decisions can impact the health of the broader community, researchers have increasingly sought to understand the psychological bases for different responses to public health communications and prescriptions. We contribute to this literature in two ways. First, we analyze the relationship between Big Five personality traits and three critical beliefs and behaviors in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. These are vaccine hesitancy, engagement in risky (vs. self‐protective) pandemic social behaviors, and conspiratorial beliefs surrounding the origins, consequences, and public health response to COVID‐19. Second, we draw on theory from political psychology to model the joint effects of personality and ideology. Our analysis of two American samples (MTurk = 510; Representative = 441) indicated that political liberalism mediated the relationship between Openness and COVID‐related attitudes and behaviors.
Treatment of a nasal angiofibroma in a cat using stereotactic body radiation therapy
Authors: Upton Laurel , Lee Nathan , Rechy Jaime , Lucas Pamela W.
Published: September 2023

A 14‐year‐old cat presented with right‐sided epistaxis, right facial swelling, hyporexia, and sneezing. A right nasal mass was diagnosed based on dental radiography and computed tomography (CT), and nasal angiofibroma was diagnosed based on histopathology. Treatment consisted of stereotactic body radiation therapy in three consecutive daily doses. Self‐limiting grade 3 oral mucositis developed which resolved within 6 weeks. Recheck CT 169 days after treatment confirmed a partial response by RECIST(1) based on digital CT measurements . Disease progression was confirmed on CT 642 days after treatment, per RECIST criteria, with the longest tumor diameter measuring 3.4 cm.
Computed tomographic imaging of a maxillary sinus mucocele in an 8‐year‐old French Bulldog
Authors: Baeza Mercedes , Young Benjamin D. , LaQuaglia Kathryn A. , Rollins Amanda , Aboellail Tawfik A.
Published: September 2023

An 8‐year‐old male neutered French Bulldog was referred for continued nasal dyspnea following a staphylectomy revision performed one month prior to presentation. The patient had a prior history of skin allergies and underwent brachycephalic airway surgery performed at one year of age. Computed tomography (CT) revealed an osseous‐encased, cystic mass arising from the right maxillary sinus. Surgical biopsies were performed and a mucocele with sinusitis and glandular hyperplasia was diagnosed. Based on our systematic review of the literature, maxillary sinus mucocele has not been reported in the dog and should be among the differentials for sinus cystic masses.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis of a lymphomatous lymph node presumptively infiltrating the ureter causing hydronephrosis in a 3‐year‐old dog
Authors: Dempsey Kayla , Moon Rachel , Holland Merrilee , Cole Robert , Fiske Kaitlin , Schettler Michael
Published: September 2023

A 3‐year‐old male neutered mixed breed dog was presented for chronic vomiting and diarrhea. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a large amorphous, heterogeneous mass within the left mid to caudal abdomen most consistent with medial iliac lymph node. It appeared to invade the left ureter and extend distally causing ureteral obstruction and hydronephrosis. Concurrent additional ultrasound findings were consistent with metastatic or multicentric neoplasia. Fine needle aspirates of the lymph node and spleen both confirmed large cell lymphoma. These findings present evidence of lymphoma invading directly from an organ into the ureter which has not previously been reported in dogs.
White Counselor Education Faculty on the Topics of Racism and Privileges in the Classroom: A Personal Journey
Authors: Brooks Michael , Whittaker Tyra , Wang Yudan
Published: September 2023

Engaging in critical conversations about race and racism requires counselor educators to be courageous and fearless. The current study explored how White counselor educators engage in honest discussions regarding race and racism. Using semi-structured interviews, three White counselor educators from CACREP Accredited programs were interviewed to explore their experiences of fearlessly leading courageous conversations on race and racism. A thematic analysis yielded three consistent themes, including a pattern centered around creating a safe space for discussions, being okay with being imperfect, and encounters that transform. The last theme also had two sub-themes: constructing intentional relationships with truth-tellers and world-changing experiences. These findings offer insight for White counselor educators to traverse challenges associated with having provocative conversations about race and racism, both inside and outside of the classroom.
Enhanced mitochondrial buffering prevents Ca2+ overload in naked mole‐rat brain
Authors: Cheng Hang , Perkins Guy A. , Ju Saeyeon , Kim Keunyoung , Ellisman Mark H. , Pamenter Matthew E.
Published: September 2023

Deleterious Ca2+ accumulation is central to hypoxic cell death in the brain of most mammals. Conversely, hypoxia‐mediated increases in cytosolic Ca2+ are retarded in hypoxia‐tolerant naked mole‐rat brain. We hypothesized that naked mole‐rat brain mitochondria have an enhanced capacity to buffer exogenous Ca2+ and examined Ca2+ handling in naked mole‐rat cortical tissue. We report that naked mole‐rat brain mitochondria buffer >2‐fold more exogenous Ca2+ than mouse brain mitochondria, and that the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) at which Ca2+ inhibits aerobic oxidative phosphorylation is >2‐fold higher in naked mole‐rat brain. The primary driving force of Ca2+ uptake is the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), and the IC50 at which Ca2+ decreases Δψm is ∼4‐fold higher in naked mole‐rat than mouse brain. The ability of naked mole‐rat brain mitochondria to safely retain large volumes of Ca2+ may be due to ultrastructural differences that support the uptake and physical storage of Ca2+ in mitochondria. Specifically, and relative to mouse brain, naked mole‐rat brain mitochondria are larger and have higher crista density and increased physical interactions between adjacent mitochondrial membranes, all of which are associated with improved energetic homeostasis and Ca2+ management. We propose that excessive Ca2+ influx into naked mole‐rat brain is buffered by physical storage in large mitochondria, which would reduce deleterious Ca2+ overload and may thus contribute to the hypoxia and ischaemia‐tolerance of naked mole‐rat brain.

image

Key points

Unregulated Ca2+ influx is a hallmark of hypoxic brain death; however, hypoxia‐mediated Ca2+ influx into naked mole‐rat brain is markedly reduced relative to mice.

This is important because naked mole‐rat brain is robustly tolerant against in vitro hypoxia, and because Ca2+ is a key driver of hypoxic cell death in brain.

We show that in hypoxic naked mole‐rat brain, oxidative capacity and mitochondrial membrane integrity are better preserved following exogenous Ca2+ stress.

This is due to mitochondrial buffering of exogenous Ca2+ and is driven by a mitochondrial membrane potential‐dependant mechanism.

The unique ultrastructure of naked mole‐rat brain mitochondria, as a large physical storage space, may support increased Ca2+ buffering and thus hypoxia‐tolerance.
Correlation of interfacial and dielectric characteristics in atomic layer deposited Al2O3/TiO2 nanolaminates grown with different precursor purge times
Authors: Padhi Partha Sarathi , Ajimsha R. S. , Rai S. K. , Bhartiya Sushmita , Bose Aniruddha , Das Bidyadhar , Tiwari Manoj Kumar , Misra Pankaj
Published: September 2023

Considering the potential applications of Al2O3/TiO2 nanolaminates (ATA NLs) in storage capacitors, device-grade ATA NLs are fabricated using an ALD system, wherein the effect of precursor purging time on interfacial, and dielectric properties is thoroughly investigated. With an increase in half-cycle purging time from 2 to 4 s, the observed improvement in interface quality and sublayer density of these NLs is ascribed to the efficient removal of reaction by-products and impurities. Moreover, with an increase in purge time from 2 to 4 s, the increase in dielectric constant and concurrent decrease in dielectric loss from ∼132 to 154 and from ∼0.29 to 0.2, respectively, are primarily assigned to the improvement in sublayer conductivity contrast assisted Maxwell–Wagner interfacial polarization across Al2O3/TiO2 interfaces. The NL based devices fabricated at 4 s purging time, exhibited a capacitance density of ∼18.94 fF/μm2, low equivalent oxide thickness of ∼1.82 nm, and reduced leakage current density of ∼3.04 × 10−5 A/cm2 at 2 V applied bias, which demonstrates its suitability as high-k materials for energy storage applications. Furthermore, this study not only gives an insight of the purging time induced growth chemistry of ATA NLs but also explores the possibility of improving its dielectric performance essential for multifaceted applications.
Preparation and hot corrosion properties of the AlCrFeCoNi0.5Si high-entropy alloy coating deposited by the air plasma spraying
Authors: Ghadami Farzin , Davoudabadi Mohammad Amin , Ghadami Soheil
Published: September 2023

Normal AlCrFeCoNi and Si-modified AlCrFeCoNi0.5Si high-entropy alloy (HEA) coatings were deposited on a Ni-based superalloy by air plasma spraying technique. Hot corrosion properties of the normal and Si-modified AlCrFeCoNi0.5Si HEA-coated samples were evaluated at 900 °C under the corrosive salt environment containing 45% Na2SO4 and 55% V2O5. The hot corrosion kinetics of both normal and Si-modified coatings were accordingly investigated using mass gain measurements. X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive x-ray analysis were used for the microstructural characterizations. The results indicated that the Si-modified AlCrFeCoNi0.5Si HEA coating has a greater resistance to hot corrosion compared with the normal AlCrFeCoNi HEA coating. The results obtained are primarily related to the formation of Si-rich precipitates, which inhibit the outward diffusion and, therefore, reduce the formation of the corrosion products on the AlCrFeCoNi0.5Si HEA coating surface.
The acoustical characterization of clay pots in Ottoman architecture through experimental and numerical analysis
Authors: Atay Gülnihan , Sü Gül Zühre , Önen Onursal
Published: September 2023

In medieval age, clay pots are utilized as multi-functional building elements serving not only for structural and ventilative purposes but also for the improvement of the acoustic qualities of the space. Although the medieval usage of acoustic pots is vaguely connected with the acoustic vessels of Vitruvius, their employment is also interpreted as cavity resonators as in the case of Süleymaniye Mosque. The 16th century edifice designed by Sinan the Architect Laureate is a significant example among its European counterparts with 224 clay pots embedded into its central dome. The present work aims to discuss the contribution of clay pots in acoustics of historical edifices focusing on Süleymaniye Mosque. In this study, a clay pot sample employed in the mosque is reproduced and impedance tube measurements are held. The results are then compared with finite element model simulations carried out to examine the effective frequency range of the clay pots. Finally, the data acquired from numerical simulations and the experimental measurements are applied in ray tracing simulations. The final results reinforce the contribution of clay pots on the improvement of sound energy decay rate measured after the final restorations within the mosque with repaired pots.
Observations and simulations of caustic formation due to oceanographic fine structure
Authors: DeFilippis Jacob P. , Cornuelle Bruce D. , Lucas Andrew J. , Hodgkiss William S. , Lenain Luc , Kuperman W. A. , Alford Matthew H.
Published: September 2023

An at-sea experiment in deep water was conducted to explore the impact of small-scale sound-speed variability on mid-frequency (1–10 kHz) acoustic propagation. Short-range (1–5 km) acoustic transmissions were sent through the upper ocean (0–200 m) while oceanographic instruments simultaneously measured the ocean environment within 2 km of the single upper turning points of the acoustic transmissions. During these transmissions, acoustic receptions over a 7.875 m vertical line array show closely spaced, sometimes interfering arrivals. Ray and full-wave simulations of the transmissions using nearby sound-speed profiles are compared deterministically to the received acoustic signals. The sensitivity of the acoustic arrivals to the vertical scales of ocean sound speed is tested by comparing the observed and simulated arrival intensity where the sound-speed profile used by the simulation is smoothed to varying scales. Observations and modeling both suggest that vertical fine-scale structures (1–10 m) embedded in the sound-speed profile have strong second derivatives which allow for the formation of acoustic caustics as well as potentially interfering acoustic propagation multipaths.
Glutamine synthetase and GlnR regulate nitrogen metabolism in
Paenibacillus polymyxa
WLY78
Authors: Zhao Xiyun , Song Yi , Wang Tianshu , Hua Chongchong , Hu Rui , Shang Yimin , Shi Haowen , Chen Sanfeng
Published: September 2023

Paenibacillus polymyxa
WLY78, a N
2
-fixing bacterium, has great potential use as a biofertilizer in agriculture. Recently, we have revealed that GlnR positively and negatively regulates the transcription of the
nif
(
ni
trogen
f
ixation) operon (
nifBHDKENXhesAnifV
) in
P. polymyxa
WLY78 by binding to two loci of the
nif
promoter according to nitrogen availability. However, the regulatory mechanisms of nitrogen metabolism mediated by GlnR in the
Paenibacillus
genus remain unclear. In this study, we have revealed that glutamine synthetase (GS) and GlnR in
P. polymyxa
WLY78 play a key role in the regulation of nitrogen metabolism.
P. polymyxa
GS (encoded by
glnA
within
glnRA
) and GS1 (encoded by
glnA1
) belong to distinct groups: GSI-α and GSI-β. Both GS and GS1 have the enzyme activity to convert NH
4
+
and glutamate into glutamine, but only GS is involved in the repression by GlnR. GlnR represses transcription of
glnRA
under excess nitrogen, while it activates the expression of
glnA1
under nitrogen limitation. GlnR simultaneously activates and represses the expression of
amtBglnK
and
gcvH
in response to nitrogen availability. Also, GlnR regulates the expression of
nasA, nasD1D2, nasT, glnQHMP,
and
glnS
.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, we have revealed that
Paenibacillus polymyxa
GlnR uses multiple mechanisms to regulate nitrogen metabolism. GlnR activates or represses or simultaneously activates and inhibits the transcription of nitrogen metabolism genes in response to nitrogen availability. The multiple regulation mechanisms employed by
P. polymyxa
GlnR are very different from
Bacillus subtilis
GlnR which represses nitrogen metabolism under excess nitrogen. Both GS encoded by
glnA
within the
glnRA
operon and GS1 encoded by
glnA1
in
P. polymyxa
WLY78 are involved in ammonium assimilation, but only GS is required for regulating GlnR activity. The work not only provides significant insight into understanding the interplay of GlnR and GS in nitrogen metabolism but also provides guidance for improving nitrogen fixation efficiency by modulating nitrogen metabolism.
Transcriptional regulation of soluble methane monooxygenase via enhancer-binding protein derived from
Methylosinus sporium
5
Authors: Hwang Yunha , Na Jeong-Geol , Lee Seung Jae
Published: September 2023

Methane is a major greenhouse gas, and methanotrophs regulate the methane level in the carbon cycle. Soluble methane monooxygenase (sMMO) is expressed in various methanotroph genera, including
Alphaproteobacteria
and
Gammaproteobacteria
, and catalyzes the hydroxylation of methane to methanol. It has been proposed that MmoR regulates the expression of sMMO as an enhancer-binding protein under copper-limited conditions; however, details on this transcriptional regulation remain limited. Herein, we elucidate the transcriptional pathway of sMMO depending on copper ion concentration, which affects the interaction of MmoR and sigma factor. MmoR and sigma-54 (σ
54
) from
Methylosinus sporium
5 were successfully overexpressed in
Escherichia coli
and purified to investigate sMMO transcription in methanotrophs. The results indicated that σ
54
binds to a promoter positioned −24 (GG) and −12 (TGC) upstream between
mmoG
and
mmoX1
. The binding affinity and selectivity are lower (
K

d

= 184.6 ± 6.2 nM) than those of MmoR. MmoR interacts with the upstream activator sequence (UAS) with a strong binding affinity (
K

d

= 12.5 ± 0.5 nM). Mutational studies demonstrated that MmoR has high selectivity to its binding partner (ACA-xx-TGT). Titration assays have demonstrated that MmoR does not coordinate with copper ions directly; however, its binding affinity to UAS decreases in a low-copper-containing medium. MmoR strongly interacts with adenosine triphosphate (
K

d

= 62.8 ± 0.5 nM) to generate RNA polymerase complex. This study demonstrated that the binding events of both MmoR and σ
54
that regulate transcription in
M. sporium
5 depend on the copper ion concentration.

IMPORTANCE

This study provides biochemical evidence of transcriptional regulation of soluble methane monooxygenase (sMMO) in methanotrophs that control methane levels in ecological systems. Previous studies have proposed transcriptional regulation of MMOs, including sMMO and pMMO, while we provide further evidence to elucidate its mechanism using a purified enhancer-binding protein (MmoR) and transcription factor (σ
54
). The characterization studies of σ
54
and MmoR identified the promoter binding sites and enhancer-binding sequences essential for sMMO expression. Our findings also demonstrate that MmoR functions as a trigger for sMMO expression due to the high specificity and selectivity for enhancer-binding sequences. The UV-visible spectrum of purified MmoR suggested an iron coordination like other GAF domain, and that ATP is essential for the initiation of enhancer elements. Binding assays indicated that these interactions are blocked by the copper ion. These results provide novel insights into gene regulation of methanotrophs.
One for all—human kidney Caki-1 cells are highly susceptible to infection with corona- and other respiratory viruses
Authors: Daniels Alison , Fletcher Sarah , Kerr Holly E. M. , Kratzel Annika , Pinto Rute Maria , Kriplani Nisha , Craig Nicky , Hastie C. James , Davies Paul , Digard Paul , Thiel Volker , Tait-Burkard Christine
Published: September 2023

In vitro
investigations of host-virus interactions are reliant on suitable cell and tissue culture models. Results are only as good as the model they are generated in. However, choosing cell models for
in vitro
work often depends on availability and previous use alone. Despite the vast increase in coronavirus research over the past few years, scientists are still heavily reliant on: non-human, highly heterogeneous or not fully differentiated, or naturally unsusceptible cells requiring overexpression of receptors and other accessory factors. Complex primary or stem cell models are highly representative of human tissues but are expensive and time-consuming to develop and maintain with limited suitability for high-throughput experiments.Using tissue-specific expression patterns, we identified human kidney cells as an ideal target for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and broader coronavirus infection. We show the use of the well-characterized human kidney cell line Caki-1 for infection with three human coronaviruses (hCoVs):
Betacoronaviruses
SARS-CoV-2 and Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome coronavirus and
Alphacoronavirus
hCoV 229E. Caki-1 cells show equal or superior susceptibility to all three coronaviruses when compared to other commonly used cell lines for the cultivation of the respective virus. Antibody staining against SARS-CoV-2 N protein shows comparable replication rates. A panel of 26 custom antibodies shows the location of SARS-CoV-2 proteins during replication using immunocytochemistry. In addition, Caki-1 cells were found to be susceptible to two other human respiratory viruses, influenza A virus and respiratory syncytial virus, making them an ideal model for cross-comparison for a broad range of respiratory viruses.

IMPORTANCE

Cell lines remain the backbone of virus research, but results are only as good as their originating model. Despite increased research into human coronaviruses following the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers continue to rely on suboptimal cell line models of: non-human origin, incomplete differentiation, or lacking active interferon responses. We identified the human kidney Caki-1 cell line as a potential target for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). This cell line could be shown to be infectable with a wide range of coronaviruses including common cold virus hCoV-229E, epidemic virus MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 as well as other important respiratory viruses influenza A virus and respiratory syncytial virus. We could show the localization of 26 SARS-CoV-2 proteins in Caki-1 cells during natural replication and the cells are competent of forming a cellular immune response. Together, this makes Caki-1 cells a unique tool for cross-virus comparison in one cell line.
Carbon Dioxide Emission from Soils of the Ecotone Zone in the North of Western Siberia
Authors: Goncharova O. Yu. , Matyshak G. V. , Timofeeva M. V. , Chuvanov S. V. , Tarkhov M. O. , Isaeva A. V.
Published: September 2023

The study area in the north of Western Siberia is located in the southern tundra–taiga ecotone near the southern boundary of discontinuous permafrost zone. Three contrasting ecosystems—pine forests with Albic Podzols; palsa with Histic Oxyaquic Turbic Cryosols, and bogs with Fibric Histosols—predominate in this area. The objectives of the study included evaluation of the CO2emission from soils in the growing seasons of 2019–2022 and analysis of the factors controlling spatial and interannual variability of the emission. The study included analysis of the soil respiration (static closed chamber method) data and soil hydrothermal parameters in August for four years. In the absence of definite trends in climatic parameters over the past 10 years, a gradual increase in the soil temperature in all ecosystems and an increase in the depth of summer thawing in palsa were observed. These changes were not accompanied by significant changes in the CO2emission. Its averaged values varied from 485 to 540 mg CO2/(m2h) in forest ecosystems and from 150 to 255 mg CO2/(m2h) in the palsa–bog complex with high coefficients of spatial variability. High CO2emission in forest ecosystems is determined by a favorable hydrothermal regime, high root biomass, and good water-physical properties. Part of the CO2produced by palsa soils is transported with suprapermafrost water flows toward the adjacent bog and is released from the surface of bog soils. Soil temperature interrelated with seasonal thawing depth proved to be a significant predictor of the spatial variability of CO2emission from the soils of the palsa–bog complex.
Successful sacral neuromodulation treatment of refractory faecal incontinence in a patient with spina bifida and partial sacral agenesis
Authors: Luchristt Douglas , Kawasaki Amie
Published: September 2023

A woman in her early 20s with a history of lumbosacral lipomyelomeningocele with associated partial sacral agenesis and tethered cord was referred for possible sacral neuromodulation treatment of her refractory faecal incontinence. Anorectal testing revealed a thinned and weakened anal sphincter complex with absent left-sided bulbocavernosus and anal wink reflexes.

Through a two-stage approach, she underwent successful placement of a chronic tined quadripolar sacral nerve lead and implanted pulse generator. Despite significant distortion of normal bony anatomic landmarks, bilateral S3 and S4 foraminal entry was possible, with intraoperative motor and sensory testing providing key confirmation of appropriate lead placement. The patient had a substantial improvement in her baseline frequency and urgency with a near-complete resolution of faecal incontinence episodes during her test phase.
Retinal vasoproliferative tumour: differential diagnoses and treatment considerations in a paediatric patient
Authors: Coman Amy , Murtagh Patrick , Horgan Noel
Published: September 2023

An early adolescent man was referred to the ocular oncology service for evaluation of a pale, raised fundus lesion in the inferotemporal quadrant of his right eye. Unaided visual acuities were 20/20 OD and 20/20 OS. He had no medical, ocular or family history of note. Retinal vasoproliferative tumour with progressive retinal exudation was the working diagnosis. Improvement in tumour features and exudation regression were noted following a combination of argon laser therapy, cryotherapy and intravitreal steroid injection. Paediatric intraocular tumours present a complex list of differential diagnoses and offer significant diagnostic and management challenges. Discussed here are the differential diagnoses and treatment considerations in the setting of an intraocular tumour in childhood.
Surgical management of mandibular cherubism in an adolescent: integration of virtual surgical planning
Authors: Ladnier Emily , Sheth Atmiya , Shupak Raymond Patrick
Published: September 2023

Cherubism, also known as familial fibrodysplasia of the jaw, is an autosomal dominant disorder with variable penetrance. The disease process is characterised by painless and progressive bilateral enlargement of the maxillofacial skeleton. We present an adolescent female with a family history of cherubism who presented to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery clinic with progressive bilateral swelling of the mandible. The diagnosis of cherubism was established through a thorough history which was confirmed with an incisional biopsy. The progressive swelling negatively affected her appearance and psychosocial well-being. The patient opted for surgical intervention after a course of conservative management. Although there is often resolution of these lesions into adulthood, surgical intervention may be considered when managing this condition in adolescence. Integration with virtual surgical planning can aid in obtaining desired postoperative outcomes.
Combined preauricular, retroauricular bilobed flap for earlobe reconstruction
Authors: Pasham Pavan Goud , Ananthappan Manoj , Mahipathy Surya Rao Rao Venkata , Durairaj Alagar Raja
Published: September 2023

The earlobe is an important anatomical structure that has a significant role in aesthesis. An absent ear lobule may be congenital or acquired due to the result of trauma, infection or malignancy. Its surgical repair places a challenge due to the difficulty of obtaining a natural-appearing and durable outcome. Many procedures have been described for reconstruction including the Gavello and Zenteno Alanis techniques. We have described a new method which is single staged, easy to perform and aesthetically acceptable.
Comparative assessment of subretinal hyper-reflective material in patients treated with brolucizumab versus aflibercept in HAWK and HARRIER
Authors: Sadda SriniVas , Sarraf David , Khanani Arshad M , Tadayoni Ramin , Chang Andrew A , Saffar Insaf , Gedif Kinfemichael , Wong David T
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Post hoc analysis of the phase III HAWK and HARRIER studies to compare the reductions in subretinal hyper-reflective material (SHRM) thickness following brolucizumab 6 mg or aflibercept 2 mg treatment and to assess SHRM thickness and thickness variability as a potential biomarker of visual outcomes in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

Methods

Optical coherence tomography images from the brolucizumab (n=700) and aflibercept (n=696) arms were analysed for the maximum SHRM thickness across the macula over 96 weeks. In a pooled treatment-agnostic analysis, the effect of week 12 SHRM thickness and SHRM thickness variability on best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) through week 96 were also assessed.

Results

Brolucizumab was associated with numerically higher percentage reductions from baseline in SHRM thickness versus aflibercept in all patients (week 96: 54.4% vs 47.6%, respectively) and also in the matched subgroups with disease activity at week 16 (week 96: 51.6% vs 33.8%, respectively). In eyes with lower SHRM measurements at week 12, mean BCVA gains from baseline were higher at week 96 (<200 µm, +6.47 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters; ≥200 µm, +3.10 letters). Eyes with the lowest SHRM thickness variability from week 12 to week 96 showed the greatest mean BCVA gains from baseline (week 96: <12 µm, +7.42 letters; >71 µm, −2.95 letters).

Conclusions

In HAWK and HARRIER, greater reductions in maximum SHRM thickness from baseline were observed with brolucizumab compared with aflibercept. Furthermore, the data suggest that SHRM thickness postloading and SHRM thickness variability over time are biomarkers for visual outcomes in patients with nAMD.
Impact of 1-hour and 3-hour sepsis time bundles on antibiotic use in emergency departments in Queensland, Australia: a before-and-after cohort study
Authors: Wilks Kathryn , Mason Donna , Rice Michael , Seaton Robert , Redpath Lyndell , Gibbons Kristen , Ergetu Endrias , Lane Paul , Venkatesh Balasubramanian
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine if the introduction of an emergency department (ED) sepsis screening tool and management bundle affects antibiotic prescribing and use.

Design

Multicentre, cohort, before-and-after study design.

Setting

Three tertiary hospitals in Queensland, Australia (median bed size 543, range 520–742).

Participants

Adult patients, presenting to the ED with symptoms and signs suggestive of sepsis who had blood cultures collected. These participants were further assessed and stratified as having septic shock, sepsis or infection alone, using Sepsis-3 definitions. The study dates were 1 July 2017–31 March 2020.

Intervention

The breakthrough series collaborative ‘Could this be Sepsis?’ Programme, aimed at embedding a sepsis screening tool and treatment bundle with weighted-incidence syndromic combined antibiogram-derived antibiotic guidelines in EDs.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the rate of empirical prescriptions adherent to antibiotic guidelines during the ED encounter. Secondary outcomes included the empirical prescriptions considered appropriate, effective antibiotics administered within 3 hours and assessment of harm measures.

Results

Of 2591 eligible patients, 721 were randomly selected: 241 in the baseline phase and 480 in the post-intervention phase. The rates of guideline adherence were 54.0% and 59.5%, respectively (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.41 (95% CI 1.00, 1.98)). As compared with baseline, there was an increase in the rates of appropriate antibiotic prescription after bundle implementation (69.9% vs 57.1%, aOR 1.92 (95% CI 1.37, 2.68)). There were no differences between the baseline and post-intervention groups with respect to time to effective antibiotics, adverse effects or ED rates of broad-spectrum antibiotic use.

Conclusion and relevance

The use of an ED sepsis screening tool and management bundle was associated with an improvement in the rates of appropriate antibiotic prescription without evidence of adverse effects.
Identifying occupational health inequities in the absence of suitable data: are there inequities in access to adequate bathrooms in US workplaces?
Authors: Johnson Candice Y , Fujishiro Kaori
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Our research questions are often chosen based on the existence of suitable data for analysis or prior research in the area. For new interdisciplinary research areas, such as occupational health equity, suitable data might not yet exist. In this manuscript, we describe how we approached a research question in the absence of suitable data using the example of identifying inequities in adequate bathrooms in US workplaces.

Methods

We created a conceptual model that hypothesises causal mechanisms for occupational health inequities, and from this model we identified a series of questions that could be answered using separate data sets to better understand inequities in adequate workplace bathrooms. Breaking up the analysis into multiple steps allowed us to use multiple data sources and analysis methods, which helped compensate for limitations in each data set.

Results

Using the conceptual model as a guide, we were able to identify some jobs that likely have inadequate bathrooms as well as subpopulations potentially at higher risk for inadequate bathrooms. We also identified specific data gaps by reflecting on the challenges we faced in our multistep analysis. These gaps, which indicated future data collection needs, included difficulty finding data sources for some predictors of inadequate bathrooms that prevented us from fully investigating potential inequities.

Conclusions

We share our conceptual model and our example analysis to motivate researchers to avoid letting availability of data limit the research questions they pursue.
Smoking behaviour, tobacco sales and tobacco advertising at 40 ‘Smoke Free Hospitals’ in Vietnam
Authors: Merritt Joshua David , Yen Pham Ngoc , Thu-Anh Nguyen , Ngo Chau Quy , Giap Vu Van , Nhung Nguyen Viet , Ha Bui Thi , Thuy Ma Thu , Anh Nguyen Thuy , An Nguyen Thuy , Marks Guy Barrington , Negin Joel , Velen Kavindhran , Fox Greg James
Published: September 2023

Background

Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death globally. Vietnam’s 2012 Law on Prevention and Control of Tobacco Harms establishes all healthcare facilities as smoke-free environments. We aimed to evaluate the implementation of these policies within health facilities across Vietnam.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was undertaken at 40 central, provincial, district and commune healthcare facilities in four provinces of Vietnam. The presence of tobacco sales, smoke-free signage, evidence of recent tobacco use and smoking behaviours by patients and staff were observed over a 1-week period at multiple locations within each facility. Adherence with national regulations was reported using descriptive statistics.

Results

23 out of 40 facilities (57.5%) followed the requirements of the national smoke-free policy regarding tobacco sales, advertising and signage. Smoking was observed within health facility grounds at 26 (65%) facilities during the observation period. Indirect evidence of smoking was observed at 35 (88%) facilities. Sites where smoking was permitted (n=2) were more likely to have observed smoking behaviour (relative risk (RR) 2.16, 95% CI 1.83 to 2.56). Facilities where tobacco was sold (n=7) were more likely to have smoking behaviour observed at any of their sites (RR 1.53, 95% CI 0.93 to 2.51).

Conclusions

Implementation of current smoke-free hospital regulations remains incomplete, with widespread evidence of smoking observed at three levels of the Vietnamese healthcare facilities. Further interventions are required to establish the reputation of Vietnamese healthcare facilities as smoke-free environments.
Retrospective analysis ofSalmonellaisolates recovered from animal feed in Great Britain
Authors: Papadopoulou C. , Carrique‐Mas J. J. , Davies R. H. , Sayers A. R.
Published: September 2023

To examine feed contamination rates withSalmonella, the diversity of serovars and the antimicrobial resistance of isolates from animal feedingstuffs in Great Britain, and to compareSalmonellastrains found in animal feed and in livestock, data collected under voluntary and statutorySalmonellasurveillance during the period 1987 to 2006 were analysed retrospectively. The feed contamination rate decreased from 3·8 per cent in 1993 to 1·1 per cent in 2006. A total of 263Salmonellaserovars were recovered:SMbandaka (11·2 per cent),STennessee (10·4 per cent),SSenftenberg (8·4 per cent),SAgona (6·4 per cent),SMontevideo (6·4 per cent) andSOhio (3·1 per cent) were the most prevalent.STyphimurium was recovered at a proportion of 1·6 per cent from raw ingredients and 2·4 per cent from finished feed, whileSEnteritidis was recovered at a proportion of 0·5 per cent from raw ingredients and 0·6 per cent from finished feed; 14·1 per cent of the isolates were resistant to at least one antimicrobial, and 1·9 per cent were multiresistant. There was no evidence of a statistical association (P<0·05) between the top 10 serovars recovered from feed and from livestock.
Structure of microemulsions in the continuous phase channel
Authors: Schmidt Robert Franz , Prévost Sylvain , Gradzielski Michael , Zemb Thomas
Published: September 2023

We have studied the microemulsion and lamellar phases of two of the most commonly described systems based on nonionic C12E5 and ionic AOT surfactants. We show that C12E5 is best described by the symmetric disordered open connected lamellar model (DOC-lamellar), contrary to the more commonly employed standard flexible model. In the case of AOT, the bicontinuous microemulsion structure is best described by the standard flexible model at high temperatures. Around room temperature, connected cylinders in a molten cubic crystal phase are the only description which corresponds to the data. In the lamellar phase, around one third of the available surface area is lost in fluctuations and defects. Comparing structurally predictive models with results from conductivity measurements show that salt adsorption in the hydrated ethoxy groups is dominant for C12E5 (nonionic). For AOT, our conductivity measurements clarify the role of tortuosity versus cation absorption.