bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Informal support and obligation contribute to fewer child behavior problems over time
Authors: Radey Melissa , Ledermann Thomas , McWey Lenore
Published: March 2022

Objective

This study used longitudinal data from a sample of low‐income mothers and their children to examine how informal support and obligation, or informal networks, contribute to children's behavior. We also tested the potential mediating role of maternal parenting stress.

Background

Many studies document the importance of informal support for maternal stress and child behavior to offset the negative impact of poverty for low‐income families. Evidence suggests the importance of also considering the obligations that such informal support access may impart.

Method

Using data from the Welfare, Children, Families Study, a longitudinal study of diverse, low‐income, urban mothers in three cities (n = 2142), we used a parallel process latent growth curve model approach to examine how informal support and obligation contributed to maternal stress and child behavior.

Results

Models indicated that mothers with healthy safety nets, including informal support and manageable obligations, had children with fewer behavior problems, and parenting stress partially accounted for the positive effects.

Conclusions

Results highlight the importance of considering reciprocity norms among low‐income mothers; one‐sided support or obligation can be problematic for both maternal stress and child behavior problems.

Implications

Results suggest the merit of empirically supported interventions to teach relationship skills and facilitate healthy relationships among low‐income mothers.
Vertical distribution of fish in the deepest Brazilian reservoir
Authors: Porto Carina Patez , Casarim Ruanny , Prado Ivo Gavião , Santos Pompeu Paulo
Published: March 2022

Despite the large number of dams in most important rivers of Brazil, little is known about fish vertical distribution in neotropical reservoirs, especially deep ones. This study aims to understand how fish were vertically distributed in the deepest reservoir in Brazil, located in the Jequitinhonha River. Three areas of the reservoir were sampled quarterly using an echosounder. The deepest fish detected was at 115 m, but most were shallower than 25 m. Diel vertical migration of fish was detected, but not in all the sampling areas and campaigns. Fish distribution was determined by several limnological factors of the reservoir, but mainly by thermal variation in water column. These results can provide guidance for environmental and fisheries managers and ecologists to improve sampling techniques in deep reservoirs since vertical distribution and its relation with habitat use are determinant to propose management measures in similar ecosystems.
Long‐Term Assessment of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Attenuation at Petroleum Release Sites in California
Authors: McHugh Thomas E. , Beckley Lila M. , DeVaull George E. , Lahvis Matthew A.
Published: March 2022

Currently, there are over 62,000 petroleum‐contaminated sites undergoing remediation in the United States. Understanding attenuation rates for dissolved contaminant concentrations and factors that influence these rates is important to effectively manage these sites and move them towards closure. The GeoTracker and California Department of Public Health databases provide more than 15 years of groundwater monitoring results for tens of thousands of monitoring wells and public water supply wells in California. First‐order maximum concentration attenuation rate constants (kc‐max) were determined for sites with 5 or more years of monitoring data over the time period of 2002 to 2017. kc‐max values vary by constituent; across more than 5000 sites, the median kc‐max value ranged from 0.30 year−1 for methyl tert‐butyl ether (MTBE) (half‐life of 2.3 years) to 0.076 year−1 for naphthalene (half‐life of 9.1 years). A focused evaluation of remediation technologies at 50 petroleum release sites indicates that dissolved contaminant attenuation typically increased during the time period of remediation. Further, the analysis indicates that biodegradation is an important attenuation process even during periods without active remediation (i.e., periods of natural attenuation). There was little evidence of petroleum and fuel oxygenate impacts to public water supply wells. Overall, the analyses indicate that both remediation and natural biodegradation contribute to site remediation and that these attenuation processes have been sufficient to prevent widespread impacts to public water supply wells.
A critical analysis of research methods and biological experimental models to study pulp regeneration
Authors: Rosa Vinicius , Sriram Gopu , McDonald Neville , Cavalcanti Bruno Neves
Published: February 2022

With advances in knowledge and treatment options, pulp regeneration is now a clear objective in clinical dental practice. For this purpose, many methodologies have been developed in attempts to address the putative questions raised both in research and in clinical practice. In the first part of this review, laboratory‐based methods will be presented, analysing the advantages, disadvantages, and benefits of cell culture methodologies and ectopic/semiorthotopic animal studies. This will also demonstrate the need for alignment between two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional laboratory techniques to accomplish the range of objectives in terms of cell responses and tissue differentiation. The second part will cover observations relating to orthotopic animal studies, describing the current models used for this purpose and how they contribute to the translation of regenerative techniques to the clinic.
Applying lean thinking for disaster responses: The case of philanthropic organisations
Authors: Mogotsi Keratiloe , Alagidede Imhotep , Saruchera Fanny
Published: March 2022

Disaster response by philanthropy has faced numerous challenges flagged in the literature, including duplication of efforts, inefficiencies, waste, and inadequate goal achievements. However, there is little literature on how to organise philanthropic acts in the face of disasters. This paper assesses the influence of lean thinking in improving disaster response processes and sustainability. The paper further proposes a framework for applying lean thinking by philanthropic organisations. A mixed research methods strategy was employed with 212 staff surveys in Southern Africa. Twenty‐three in‐depth key informant interviews were also conducted. The results revealed that lean thinking succeeds with philanthropic organisations if a high level of management commitment, teamwork, and adaptability to change the organisation's setup exists. A framework is presented through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), tailor‐made for philanthropic organisations in Southern Africa. External and internal determinants were found to equally contribute to lean thinking's success in reducing waste and increasing value. Despite being limited to developing economies, this paper extends prior research on the lean application and integrates lean thinking in a philanthropic setting. Findings drawn from diverse countries imply that results may be reasonably generalised.
Gut microbiota from Mexican patients with metabolic syndrome and HIV infection: An inflammatory profile
Authors: Amador-Lara Fernando , Andrade-Villanueva Jaime F. , Vega-Magaña Natali , Peña-Rodríguez Marcela , Alvarez-Zavala Monserrat , Sanchez-Reyes Karina , Toscano-Piña Marcela , Peregrina-Lucano Alejandro A. , del Toro-Arreola Susana , González-Hernández Luz A. , Bueno-Topete Miriam R.
Published: February 2022

Aim

A remarkable increase in metabolic syndrome (MetS) has occurred in HIV-infected subjects. Gut dysbiosis is involved in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders. Therefore, the aim is to explore the profile of the gut microbiota in Mexican population with HIV infection and MetS.

Methods and Results

In all, 30 HIV-infected patients with MetS were compared to a group of 30 patients without MetS, treated with integrase inhibitors and undetectable viral load were included in the study. Stool samples were analysed by 16S rRNA next-generation sequencing. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein >3 mg L−1 and higher scores in cardiometabolic indices were associated with MetS. The group with MetS was characterized by a decrease in α-diversity, higher abundance of Enterobacteriaceae and Prevotella, as well as a dramatic decrease in bacteria producing short-chain fatty acids. Prevotella negatively correlated with Akkermansia, Lactobacillus and Anaerostipes. Interestingly, the group without MetS presented higher abundance of Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Anaerofilum, Oscillospira and Anaerostipes. Functional pathways related to energy metabolism and inflammation were increased in the group with MetS.

Conclusions

HIV-infected patients with MetS present a strong inflammatory microbiota profile; therefore, future strategies to balance intestinal dysbiosis should be implemented.
Physiological pacing with a DF‐1 single chamber defibrillator in a patient with permanent atrial fibrillation and heart block: A case report
Authors: Nasarre Mathieu , Clementy Nicolas , Bodin Alexandre , Babuty Dominique , Bisson Arnaud
Published: March 2022

We report a case report of a 68‐year‐old man with chemotherapy‐induced cardiomyopathy and uncontrolled permanent atrial fibrillation. Cardiac resynchronization therapy implantation and atrioventricular junction ablation were planned. DF‐1 single chamber defibrillator was connected to lead's defibrillation and a lead destinated to left bundle branch area pacing. This system leads to reduce costs by one‐third, improve battery longevity, and provide a more physiological pacing.
Patients with hypothermic sepsis have a unique gene expression profile compared to patients with fever and sepsis
Authors: Harmon Matthew B. A. , Scicluna Brendon P. , Wiewel Maryse A. , Schultz Marcus J. , Horn Janneke , Cremer Olaf L. , van der Poll Tom , Joost Wiersinga W. , Juffermans Nicole P. ,   the MARS consortium
Published: March 2022

The pathophysiology of hypothermia during sepsis is unclear. Using genomic profiling of blood leukocytes, we aimed to determine if hypothermia is associated with a different gene expression profile compared to fever during sepsis. Patients with sepsis and either hypothermia or fever within 24 hours after ICU admission were included in the study (n = 168). Hypothermia was defined as body temperature below 36 °C. Fever was defined as body temperature equal to or above 38.3°C. We compared blood gene expression (whole‐genome transcriptome in leukocytes) in hypothermic septic compared to febrile septic patients in an unmatched analysis and matched for APACHE IV score and the presence of shock. In total, 67 septic patients were hypothermic and 101 patients were febrile. Hypothermia was associated with a distinct gene expression profile in both unmatched and matched analyses. There were significant differences related to the up‐ and downregulation of canonical signalling pathways. In the matched analysis, the top upregulated gene was cold‐inducible mRNA binding protein (CIRBP) which plays a role in cold‐induced suppression of cell proliferation. In addition, we found three signalling pathways significantly upregulated in hypothermic patients compared to febrile patients; tryptophan degradation X, phenylalanine degradation IV and putrescine degradation III. In conclusion, there are distinct signalling pathways and genes associated with hypothermia, including tryptophan degradation and CIRBP expression, providing a possible link to the modulation of body temperature and early immunosuppression. Future studies may focus on the canonical signalling pathways presented in this paper to further investigate spontaneous hypothermia in sepsis.
New contribution to the peritrichous genus Ophrydium (Protista, Ciliophora) with notes on the morphology, taxonomy, and phylogeny of a well‐known species Ophrydium crassicaule Penard, 1922
Authors: Wu Tong , Wang Zhe , Lu Borong , Lei Jingtao , Al‐Rasheid Khaled A.S. , Sheng Yalan
Published: March 2022

The peritrichous genus Ophrydium is relatively distinctive since its colonies have a gelatinous lorica. In the present work, one morphologically well‐described species, Ophrydium crassicaule, was collected from a freshwater habitat in China. Both morphological characters and sequence data for SSU rDNA, ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2 region and LSU rDNA were obtained. Morphologically, O. crassicaule is characterized by its elongated vase‐shaped zooid, single‐layered peristomial lip, dichotomously branched stalk, colony with gelatinous lorica, and infundibular polykinety 3 (P3) containing one short inner row and two long outer rows. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the genus Ophrydium is monophyletic and nests within the family Vorticellidae. In addition, we briefly revise the nominal congeners for aiding the species identification in future studies.
The presence of ettringite in concrete affected by alkali‐silica reaction and its potential use as recycled aggregate
Authors: Piersanti Matthew , Shehata Medhat H.
Published: February 2022

Samples were collected from a 20‐year‐old concrete suffering alkali‐silica reaction for examination using scanning electron microscopy. The concrete was also exposed to cycles of freezing and thawing in service. The old concrete was processed and used as recycled concrete aggregate in new concrete tested under lab conditions. The study shows that backscattered electron imaging, energy dispersive x‐ray analysis and x‐ray mapping are helpful tools to identify the presence of alkali‐silica reaction products. X‐ray mapping was found helpful to confirm the presence of reaction products in cases where the products or the cracking are not very clear in the collected image. The study shows the presence of ettringite in the air voids of the concrete. The formed ettringite is believed to have no direct effect on the expansion due to the alkali‐silica reaction as they form in an empty space without causing swelling pressure on the concrete. The effect of the ettringite formed in the air voids on the resistance to freezing/thawing was not confirmed in this study. Recycling the old affected concrete as aggregate in new concrete was found to cause significant expansion under lab conditions.
LncRNA KCNQ1OT1‐mediated cervical cancer progression by sponging miR‐1270 as a ceRNA of LOXL2 through PI3k/Akt pathway
Authors: Jiang Li , Jin Haihong , Gong Shan , Han Kun , Li Ze , Zhang Weihu , Tian Jing
Published: February 2022

Background

Dysregulated noncoding RNAs participated in progressions of cervical cancer.

Purpose

To verify impacts of KCNQ1OT1 on modulating progressions of cervical cancer cells.

Method

Expressions of KCNQ1OT1, miR‐1270, and LOXL2 were analyzed through RT‐qPCR and protein expressions of LOXL2, p‐AKT, and AKT were validated using western blot. Bindings of miR‐1270 with KCNQ1OT1 or LOXL2 were verified using luciferase reporter assay. CCK‐8 and flow cytometry evaluated cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway suppressor, LY294002, was applied to treat the cells and the changes of KCNQ1OT1 expression and LOXL2, p‐AKT, and AKT protein expressions were examined.

Results

KCNQ1OT1 expression was the highest in HeLa cells but lowest in SiHa cells whose upregulation improved the viability but inhibited the apoptosis in SiHa cells while knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 caused opposite results in HeLa cells. MiR‐1270 was sponged and negatively modulated by KCNQ1OT1. MiR‐1270 mimics caused low viability and high apoptosis of SiHa cells but miR‐1270 inhibitor reverse its roles in HeLa cells. LOXL2, the target of miR‐1270, positively interplayed with KCNQ1OT1 but had negative interaction with miR‐1270. LOXL2 overexpression promoted viability and decreased apoptosis of SiHa cells but knockdown of LOXL2 restored its effects in HeLa cells. Moreover, LOXL2 and phosphorylated AKT (p‐AKT) protein expressions were downregulated by suppressed KCNQ1OT1 and LOXL2 and miR‐1270 mimics but promoted by overexpressed KCNQ1OT1 and LOXL2 and miR‐1270 inhibitor. Additionally, LY294002 treatment caused low KCNQ1OT1 RNA expression and decreased LOXL2 and p‐AKT protein expressions.

Conclusion

KCNQ1OT1/miR‐1270/LOXL2 axis modulated viability and apoptosis of cervical cancer cells.
Clinical and laboratory spectrum of inborn errors of immunity in Egypt: Five years of experience at a tertiary care university hospital
Authors: Almalky Mohamed , Abdelaziz Tarek A. , Baz Eman Gamal
Published: February 2022

Aim

The recognition and diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDs) is challenging in developing countries. This study aimed to describe the features of PID patients in a tertiary care setting in Egypt and analyse the distribution, clinical features and outcome of PID among paediatric patients.

Methods

This cross‐sectional retrospective study was conducted between January 2016 and January 2021, to evaluate all paediatric patients aged below 18 years with PID that were diagnosed according to the International Union of Immunological Societies 2017 classification. We retrospectively studied the clinical features, diagnostic spectrum, laboratory investigations and relevant immunological workup, and treatment options.

Results

A total of 61 PID patients were enrolled in the current study. The median age at diagnosis was 22 months. The overall consanguinity rate was 49.2%, and the family history of PID was 19.7%. Among all PIDs, the combined immunodeficiency with syndromic features predominates with 17 cases, accounting for 27.9% of all cases of PIDs. The predominant antibody deficiency was the second common PID that was diagnosed in 14 patients (23%). Recurrent pneumonia was the most common initial presentation, occurring in 77% of patients, followed by failure to thrive (63.9%), and recurrent otitis media (55.7%). The total deaths were 18 patients (29.5%).

Conclusion

Paediatric patients with PIDs are not uncommon in Egypt. There is a need to improve PID diagnosis and treatment, for better estimation of PID and to decrease morbidity and mortality.
Streptococcus strain C17T as a potential probiotic candidate to modulate oral health
Authors: Zhang Wen Xiao , Xiao Chun Ling , Li Shu Yin , Bai Xiao Cui , Qi He , Tian Han , Wang Nan , Yang Biao , Li Xin Ming , Sun Ye
Published: February 2022

In the microbiome, probiotics modulate oral diseases. In this study, Streptococcus strain C17T was isolated from the oropharynx of a 5-year-old healthy child, and its potential probiotic properties were analysed using human bronchial epithelial cells (16-HBE) used as an in vitro oropharyngeal mucosal model. The results demonstrated that the C17T strain showed tolerance to moderate pH ranges of 4–5 and 0·5–1% bile. However, it was more tolerant to 0·5% bile than 1% bile. It also demonstrated an ability to accommodate maladaptive oropharyngeal conditions (i.e. tolerating lysozyme at 200 μg ml−1). It was also resistant to hydrogen peroxide at 0·8 mM. In addition, we found out that the strain possesses inhibitory activities against various common pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, C17T was not cytotoxic to 16-HBE cells at different multiplicities of infection. Scanning electron microscopy disclosed that C17T adhesion to 16-HBE cells. Competition, exclusion and displacement assays showed that it had good anti-adhesive effect against S. aureus. The present study revealed that Streptococcus strain C17T is a potentially efficacious oropharyngeal probiotic.
Consensus recommendations for histological criteria of autoimmune hepatitis from the International AIH Pathology Group
Authors: Lohse Ansgar W. , Sebode Marcial , Bhathal Prithi S. , Clouston Andrew D. , Dienes Hans P. , Jain Dhanpat , Gouw Annette S. H. , Guindi Maha , Kakar Sanjay , Kleiner David E. , Krech Till , Lackner Carolin , Longerich Thomas , Saxena Romil , Terracciano Luigi , Washington Kay , Weidemann Sören , Hübscher Stefan G. , Tiniakos Dina
Published: March 2022

Background & Aims

Diagnostic histological criteria for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have not been clearly established. Previously published criteria focused mainly on chronic AIH, in which inflammatory changes mainly occur in portal/periportal regions and may not be applicable to acute presentation of AIH, in which inflammatory changes are typically predominantly lobular in location. International consensus criteria for the diagnosis and assessment of disease severity in both acute and chronic AIH are thus urgently needed.

Methods

Seventeen expert liver pathologists convened at an international workshop and subsequently used a modified Delphi panel approach to establish consensus criteria for the histopathological diagnosis of AIH.

Results

The consensus view is that liver biopsy should remain standard for diagnosing AIH. AIH is considered likely, if there is a predominantly portal lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis with more than mild interface activity and/or more than mild lobular hepatitis in the absence of histological features suggestive of another liver disease. AIH is also considered likely if there is predominantly lobular hepatitis with or without centrilobular necroinflammation and at least one of the following features: portal lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis, interface hepatitis or portal‐based fibrosis, in the absence of histological features suggestive of another liver disease. Emperipolesis and hepatocellular rosettes are not regarded as being specific for AIH.

Conclusions

The criteria proposed in this consensus statement provide a uniform approach to the histological diagnosis of AIH, which is relevant for patients with an acute as well as a chronic presentation and to more accurately reflect the current understanding of liver pathology in AIH.
Influence of background characteristics in responders of regenerative therapy by periurethral injection of adipose‐derived regenerative cells for male stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Yamanishi Tomonori , Ishizuka Osamu , Shimizu Shinobu , Kobayashi Yumiko , Kinoshita Fumie , Yamamoto Tokunori , Mizokami Atushi , Narimoto Kazutaka , Toriyama Kazuhiro , Kamei Yuzuru , Kuwatsuka Yachiyo , Mizuno Masaaki , Gotoh Momokazu
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To determine if the male responders with post‐prostatectomy incontinence in the ADRESU study, which is a clinical trial of regenerative therapy by periurethral injection of adipose‐derived regenerative cells, are influenced by any background characteristics.

Methods

Briefly, autologous adipose‐derived regenerative cells isolated from abdominal adipose tissue and a mixture of adipose‐derived regenerative cells with fat tissue were transurethrally injected into the rhabdosphincter and submucosal space of the urethra, respectively. Sixteen out of 43 patients (37.2%) responded to treatment (responders) and exhibited improvement in the urine leakage volume, defined as >50% reduction from baseline determined by the 24‐hour pad test at 52 weeks of treatment (or last visit within 52 weeks). Background data such as age, body weight, method of prostatectomy, baseline frequency of leaks, number of leaks, number of pad changes, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form, King's Health Questionnaire, urodynamic urethral function including functional profile length and maximum urethral closure pressure, and abdominal leak point pressure were collected and compared between responders and nonresponders.

Results

None of the background factors influenced improvement in the responders as compared with the nonresponders. However, a significant between‐group difference in the rates of decrease in urine leakage volume was noted in patients of younger age (<70 years), compared with those of older age (≥70 years) from 2 to 26 weeks of treatment.

Conclusion

A greater decrease in urine leakage volume was noted in the younger patient group than in the older patient group.
Monitoring nurturing care environments for early childhood from the national to the municipal level
Authors: Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael , Venancio Sonia , Buccini Gabriela
Published: March 2022

Key messages

There is a dearth of indicators and management information systems to assess early childhood nurturing care environments.

The Brazilian Early Childhood Care Friendly Municipal Index (IMAPI) is a robust tool to assess nurturing care environments at the local level.

IMAPI was able to detect nurturing care inequities within and across regions.

Further validation work is needed to confirm the utility of IMAPI for policymaking.
Combining population genomics with demographic analyses highlights habitat patchiness and larval dispersal as determinants of connectivity in coastal fish species
Authors: Knutsen Halvor , Catarino Diana , Rogers Lauren , Sodeland Marte , Mattingsdal Morten , Jahnke Marlene , Hutchings Jeffrey A. , Mellerud Ida , Espeland Sigurd H. , Johanneson Kerstin , Roth Olivia , Hansen Michael M. , Jentoft Sissel , André Carl , Jorde Per Erik
Published: March 2022

Gene flow shapes spatial genetic structure and the potential for local adaptation. Among marine animals with nonmigratory adults, the presence or absence of a pelagic larval stage is thought to be a key determinant in shaping gene flow and the genetic structure of populations. In addition, the spatial distribution of suitable habitats is expected to influence the distribution of biological populations and their connectivity patterns. We used whole genome sequencing to study demographic history and reduced representation (double‐digest restriction associated DNA) sequencing data to analyse spatial genetic structure in broadnosed pipefish (Syngnathus typhle). Its main habitat is eelgrass beds, which are patchily distributed along the study area in southern Norway. Demographic connectivity among populations was inferred from long‐term (~30‐year) population counts that uncovered a rapid decline in spatial correlations in abundance with distance as short as ~2 km. These findings were contrasted with data for two other fish species that have a pelagic larval stage (corkwing wrasse, Symphodus melops; black goby, Gobius niger). For these latter species, we found wider spatial scales of connectivity and weaker genetic isolation‐by‐distance patterns, except where both species experienced a strong barrier to gene flow, seemingly due to lack of suitable habitat. Our findings verify expectations that a fragmented habitat and absence of a pelagic larval stage promote genetic structure, while presence of a pelagic larvae stage increases demographic connectivity and gene flow, except perhaps over extensive habitat gaps.
Interbank market and funding liquidity risk in a stock‐flow consistent model
Authors: Reale Jessica
Published: March 2022

The present stock‐flow consistent model aims at capturing the second causal link of endogenous monetary theory, from deposits to reserves, by including intrasectoral flows within the banking sector anddebt maturity structuredecisions. For this purpose, banks can choose the demanded duration of interbank loans, either overnight or term, according to a measure for maturity mismatch which captures funding liquidity risk. The simulations show that: (i) a well‐functioning term interbank market is needed when banks face exogenous shocks; and (ii) banks’ funding structure may act as an endogenous source of credit market pressures.
Robust comparative performance of genomic DNA extraction methods from non‐engorged phlebotomine sandflies
Authors: Senne Nathália Alves , Santos Huarrisson Azevedo , Araújo Thamires Rezende , Paulino Patrícia Gonzaga , Mendonça Leo Paulis , Moreira Haika Victória Sales , Camilo Tays Araújo , da Costa Angelo Isabele
Published: March 2022

The present study is a comparative analysis of DNeasy Blood & Tissue Qiagen® kit (Qiagen®, Hilden, Alemanha), salting out, HotShot and phenol–chloroform protocols to extract DNA from sandflies. In addition, a comparative test using sandflies with and without eyes evaluated the potential inhibitory effect in the cPCR. An inhibition test was performed using an exogenous DNA added to the qPCR. The genomic DNA quality of each sample was evaluated by cPCR based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene. The DNA extraction protocols showed the following percentage of amplification: HotShot (91.6% [55/60]), salting out (71.6% [43/60]), phenol–chloroform (95% [57/60]) and kit DNeasy Blood & Tissue Qiagen® (73.3% [44/60]). The phenol–chloroform method achieved a significantly higher frequency of cox1 gene amplification. The pigment present in the phlebotomine's eyes seems to inhibit cPCR reactions since the frequency of amplification of the cox1 gene increased in the sandflies without eyes (p < 0.0001). The HotShot method showed the highest inhibitory potential. These manual extraction techniques can be an inexpensive and effective alternative to study vector–pathogen interactions.
Core arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are predicted by their high abundance–occupancy relationship while host‐specific taxa are rare and geographically structured
Authors: Kajihara Kacie T. , Egan Cameron P. , Swift Sean O. I. , Wall Christopher B. , Muir Christopher D. , Hynson Nicole A.
Published: February 2022

Habitat restoration may depend on the recovery of plant microbial symbionts such as arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, but this requires a better understanding of the rules that govern their community assembly.

We examined the interactions of soil and host‐associated AM fungal communities between remnant and restored patches of subtropical montane forests.

While AM fungal richness did not differ between habitat types, community membership did and was influenced by geography, habitat and host. These differences were largely driven by rare host‐specific AM fungi that displayed near‐complete turnover between forest types, while core AM fungal taxa were highly abundant and ubiquitous. The bipartite networks in the remnant forest were more specialized and hosts more specific than in the restored forest. Host‐associated AM fungal communities nested within soil communities in both habitats, but only significantly so in the restored forest.

Our results provide evidence that restored and remnant forests harbour the same core fungal symbionts, while rare host‐specific taxa differ, and that geography, host identity and taxonomic resolution strongly affect the observed distribution patterns of these fungi. We suggest that host‐specific interactions with AM fungi, as well as spatial processes, should be explicitly considered to effectively re‐establish target host and symbiont communities.
Bioactive lipids and metabolic syndrome—a symposium report
Authors: DeVito Loren M. , Dennis Edward A. , Kahn Barbara B. , Shulman Gerald I. , Witztum Joseph L. , Sadhu Sudeshna , Nickels Joseph , Spite Matthew , Smyth Susan , Spiegel Sarah
Published: February 2022

Recent research has shed light on the cellular and molecular functions of bioactive lipids that go far beyond what was known about their role as dietary lipids. Bioactive lipids regulate inflammation and its resolution as signaling molecules. Genetic studies have identified key factors that can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome through their effects on lipogenesis. Lipid scientists have explored how these signaling pathways affect lipid metabolism in the liver, adipose tissue, and macrophages by utilizing a variety of techniques in both humans and animal models, including novel lipidomics approaches and molecular dynamics models. Dissecting out these lipid pathways can help identify mechanisms that can be targeted to prevent or treat cardiometabolic conditions. Continued investigation of the multitude of functions mediated by bioactive lipids may reveal additional components of these pathways that can provide a greater understanding of metabolic homeostasis.
A B‐cell or a key player? The different roles of B‐cells and antibodies in melanoma
Authors: Rodgers Chloe B. , Mustard Colette J. , McLean Ryan T. , Hutchison Sharon , Pritchard Antonia L.
Published: February 2022

The B‐cell system plays an important role in the melanoma immune response; however, consensus has yet to be reached in many facets. Here, we comprehensively review human studies only, due to fundamental differences in the humoral response with animal models. Tumour‐infiltrating B‐cells are associated with contradictory prognostic values, reflecting a lack of agreement between studies on cell subset classification and differences in the markers used, particularly the common use of a single marker not differentiating multiple subsets. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) organise T‐cells and B‐cells within tumours to generate a local anti‐tumour response and TLS presence associates with improved survival in response to immune checkpoint blockade, in late‐stage disease. Autoantibody production is increased in melanoma patients and has been proposed as biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and treatment/toxicity response; however, no consistent targets are yet identified. The function of antibodies in an anti‐tumour response is determined by its isotype and subclass; IgG4 is immune‐suppressive and robustly correlate with poor patient survival in melanoma. We conclude that the current B‐cell literature needs careful interpretation based on the methods used and that we need a consensus of markers to define B‐cells and associated lymphoid organs. Furthermore, future studies need to not only examine antibody targets, but also isotypes when considering functional roles.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of genomic alterations in acral melanoma
Authors: Broit Natasa , Johansson Peter A. , Rodgers Chloe B. , Walpole Sebastian T. , Hayward Nicholas K. , Pritchard Antonia L.
Published: March 2022

Acral melanoma (AM) tumors arise on the palms, soles, fingers, toes, and nailbeds. A comprehensive systematic meta‐analysis of AM genomic aberrations has not been conducted to date. A literature review was carried out to identify studies sequencing AM. Whole‐genome/exome data from 181 samples were identified. Targeted panel sequencing data from MSK‐IMPACT were included as a validation cohort (n = 92), and studies using targeted hot spot sequencing were also collated for BRAF (n = 26 studies), NRAS (n = 21), and KIT (n = 32). Statistical analysis indicated BRAF, NRAS, PTEN, TYRP1, and KIT as significantly mutated genes. Frequent copy‐number aberrations were also found for important cancer genes, such as CDKN2A, KIT, MDM2, CCND1, CDK4, and PAK1, among others. Mapping genomic alterations within the context of the hallmarks of cancer identified four components frequently altered, including (i) sustained proliferative signaling and (ii) evading growth suppression, (iii) genome instability and mutation, and (iv) enabling replicative immortality. This analysis provides the largest analysis of genomic aberrations in AM in the literature to date and highlights pathways that may be therapeutically targetable.
Approach motivation and loneliness: Individual differences and parasympathetic activity
Authors: Smith Karen E. , Pollak Seth D.
Published: March 2022

Loneliness, or perceived social isolation, is linked to a number of negative long‐term effects on both mental and physical health. However, how an individual responds to feeling lonely may influence their risk for later negative health outcomes. Here, we sought to clarify what influences variability in individuals' motivated responses to loneliness. Specifically, we assessed whether resting parasympathetic activity, a physiological marker linked to flexible adaptation, facilitates increased approach‐oriented behaviors. Seventy‐four adult participants underwent a conditioning paradigm assessing how they approach and avoid rewards and threats. Individuals with higher levels of loneliness and high resting parasympathetic activity were more likely to demonstrate approach behaviors. We discuss these findings in terms of the role resting parasympathetic activity may play in facilitating adaptive responses to feeling socially isolated.
Disciplining land through data: The role of agricultural technologies in farmland assetisation
Authors: Duncan Emily , Rotz Sarah , Magnan André , Bronson Kelly
Published: February 2022

Digital agricultural technologies are promoted for increasing productivity, environmental sustainability and transparency in farming. Critical perspectives on digital agriculture are necessary to frame opportunities and challenges for agricultural communities. However, the ways in which digital agricultural technologies are contributing to land financialisation—bringing land into the global market exchange—remains unexplored. Historically, farmland has been difficult to incorporate into global markets; the complex environments of family ownership have made farms difficult to condition, discipline and control, which has deterred investors. While the outright ownership of farmland has been unappealing to investors until recently, land ownership is becoming increasingly attractive due to technological change and shifts in land management. We use a responsible research and innovation framework to examine the movements in land via digitalisation asking: Who benefits and who loses due to these processes? And what are the consequences? We bring together the agro‐food financialisation scholarship, critical data studies and responsible innovation literature to bear on an analysis of farmer interviews and content from institutional investors. Ultimately, we argue that digital technologies, through their connection with land assetisation, are fostering growing inequities with respect to land access and farmer autonomy, and thus do not presently constitute responsible innovation.
The establishment of winter wheat root system architecture in field soils: The effect of soil type on root development in a temperate climate
Authors: Hobson David J. , Harty Mary A. , Langton David , McDonnell Kevin , Tracy Saoirse R.
Published: February 2022

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an important cereal crop in the temperate climates of western Europe. Root system architecture is a significant contributor to resource capture and plant resilience. However, the impact of soil type on root system architecture (RSA) in field structured soils is yet to be fully assessed. This work studied the development of root growth using deep cultivation (250 mm) during the tillering phase stage (Zadock stage 25) of winter wheat across three soil types. The three sites of contrasting soil types covered a geographical area in the UK and Ireland in October 2018. Root samples were analysed using two methods: X‐ray computed tomography (CT) which provides 3D images of the undisturbed roots in the soil, and a WinRHIZO™ scanner used to generate 2D images of washed roots and to measure further root parameters. Important negative relationships existed between soil bulk density and root properties (root length density, root volume, surface area and length) across the three sites. The results revealed that despite reduced root growth, the clay (Southoe) site had a significantly higher crop yield irrespective of root depth. The loamy sand (Harper Adams) site had significantly higher root volume, surface area and root length density compared with the other sites. However, a reduction in grain yield of 2.42 Mt ha−1 was incurred compared with the clay site and 1.6 Mt ha−1 compared with the clay loam site. The significantly higher rooting characteristics found in the loamy sand site were a result of the significantly lower soil bulk density compared with the other two sites. The loamy sand site had a lower soil bulk density, but no significant difference in macroporosity between sites (p > 0.05). This suggests that soil type and structure directly influence crop yield to greater extent than root parameters, but the interactions between both need simultaneous assessment in field sites.
Three HLA‐DQB1 alleles, DQB1*03:432, DQB1*03:454 and DQB1*03:465 were identified in Chinese individuals
Authors: Wang Fang , Dong Lina , Zhang Wei , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: February 2022

Compared with HLA‐DQB1*03: 01:01:01, the alleles HLA‐DQB1*03:432, HLA‐DQB1*03:454 and HLA‐DQB1*03:465 each show one nucleotide substitution.
Mutations that alter Arabidopsis flavonoid metabolism affect the circadian clock
Authors: Hildreth Sherry B. , Littleton Evan S. , Clark Leor C. , Puller Gabrielle C. , Kojima Shihoko , Winkel Brenda S. J.
Published: February 2022

Flavonoids are a well‐known class of specialized metabolites that play key roles in plant development, reproduction, and survival. Flavonoids are also of considerable interest from the perspective of human health, as both phytonutrients and pharmaceuticals. RNA sequencing analysis of an Arabidopsis null allele for chalcone synthase (CHS), which catalyzes the first step in flavonoid metabolism, has uncovered evidence that these compounds influence the expression of genes associated with the plant circadian clock. Analysis of promoter‐luciferase constructs further showed that the transcriptional activity of CCA1 and TOC1, two key clock genes, is altered in CHS‐deficient seedlings across the day/night cycle. Similar findings for a mutant line lacking flavonoid 3′‐hydroxylase (F3′H) activity, and thus able to synthesize mono‐ but not dihydroxylated B‐ring flavonoids, suggests that the latter are at least partially responsible; this was further supported by the ability of quercetin to enhance CCA1 promoter activity in wild‐type and CHS‐deficient seedlings. The effects of flavonoids on circadian function were also reflected in photosynthetic activity, with chlorophyll cycling abolished in CHS‐ and F3′H‐deficient plants. Remarkably, the same phenotype was exhibited by plants with artificially high flavonoid levels, indicating that neither the antioxidant potential nor the light‐screening properties of flavonoids contribute to optimal clock function, as has recently also been demonstrated in animal systems. Collectively, the current experiments point to a previously unknown connection between flavonoids and circadian cycling in plants and open the way to better understanding of the molecular basis of flavonoid action.
Predictors of cancer‐related fatigue in women with breast cancer undergoing 21 days of a cyclic chemotherapy
Authors: Tsai Hui‐Yu , Wang Chi‐Jane , Mizuno Michiyo , Muta Rieko , Fetzer Susan Jane , Lin Mei‐Feng
Published: March 2022

Background

Breast cancer is the most common diagnosis and the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide and ranks first among Asian and Taiwanese women. Cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) affects patients' functioning significantly.

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine changes in cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) and related factors among women with breast cancer undergoing a single chemotherapy, and to identify predictors of CRF’s change over the course of the chemotherapy cycle.

Methods

Four self‐report questionnaires were administered to assess CRF, sleep quality, depression and anxiety, and symptom distress. Heart rate variability (HRV) was assessed to evaluate autonomic nervous system activation related to CRF. Data were collected four times: (1) before initiation of the single chemotherapy cycle (T0), (2) after completion of the single cycle (T1), (3) 1 week post‐chemo (T2), and (4) 3 weeks post‐chemo (T3). Repeated measurement of variance and generalized estimating equations (GEE) were conducted to estimate the trajectories and predictors.

Results

One‐hundred women with breast cancer (mean age 50.4 ± 9.42) participated. CRF (F = 7.46), sleep quality (F = 2.74), symptom distress (F = 9.99), anxiety (F = 5.72), and depression (F = 4.14) varied significantly over the single cycle of chemotherapy (p < .001), which the trajectories showed exacerbating at T2. HRV indicated a higher variation only on the day of injection (T0, T1). Results of the GEE revealed that anxiety, depression, and symptom distress were predictors of CRF’s change over the single cycle of chemotherapy.

Linking Evidence to Action

CRF worsens at 1 week after a chemotherapy injection among Taiwanese women with breast cancer. Based on the risk predictors in CRF that included anxiety, depression, and symptom distress, multistrategy CRF‐alleviating interventions should be provided prior to chemotherapy and targeted at the most disturbed period, that is, 1 week after injection.
El jardín de rosas: la formación universitaria en enfermería en Bogotá, 1950-1970
Authors: Suárez Castro Edilma Marlén
Published: March 2022

El texto de Edilma Marlén Suárez Castro sobre la formación de las enfermeras en Colombia realiza un claro aporte a los estudios de la gubernamentalidad en el trabajo, a partir de un posicionamiento feminista y decolonial. Esta perspectiva deja de lado los análisis agenéricos y andro (euro) centrados que han primado en la producción teórica sobre el concepto. En este sentido, el texto de Edilma Suárez construye un cuidadoso e interesante recorrido que muestra con claridad la manera como la formación de las enfermeras, en las décadas de los cincuenta y sesenta en Colombia, se alinea con las propuestas pedagógicas de la enfermería norteamericana y con las agendas desarrollistas y de la Alianza para el Progreso, presentes en el país. Esta exploración entra también a la microfísica de la gubernamentalidad, que se despliega sobre las mujeres y, en particular, sobre las enfermeras de la época. Este análisis permite entender los mecanismos de subalternización e instrumentalización que han operado en muchas de las agendas de formación de los trabajos y labores feminizadas. Como toda aproximación genealógica, el trabajo de Edilma ofrece una mirada al pasado que nos permite comprender y cuestionar muchas de las características de nuestro presente.
Diferencias en sentido de la vida en pacientes diagnosticados con trastorno mental
Authors: García-Alandete Joaquín , Pérez Rodríguez Sandra , Marco José Heliodoro
Published: February 2022

Se analizan las diferencias en sentido de la vida (SV) en personas diagnosticadas con trastorno mental. Participaron 157 pacientes españoles (28 hombres, 17.83%, y 129 mujeres, 82.17%) con edades entre los 13 y los 68 años (M = 32.58, DT = 13.34) y con diagnóstico de trastorno del espectro esquizofrénico (n = 20), de la conducta alimentaria (n = 85), ansiedad (n = 28) y depresivo mayor (n = 24). Se utilizó una adaptación española del test del Propósito de Vida, que mostró una excelente consistencia interna, v = 0.91. Un análisis de covarianza mostró un efecto significativo del diagnóstico sobre el SV (F(4, 192) = 27.08, p = 0.000, h2 = 0.371), tras controlar los efectos de género (F(1, 192) = 2.34, p = 0.128), edad (F(1, 192) = 0.58, p = 0.447) y tiempo de evolución del trastorno (F(1, 192) = 0.29, p = 0.589). El test de Bonferroni mostró diferencias significativas entre los grupos esquizofrénico y alimentario y los de ansiedad y depresión. El SV podría desempeñar un rol positivo en la intervención terapéutica en personas con trastorno mental. Proponerse y alcanzar metas vitales significativas es exitoso en el manejo de trastornos mentales e influencia positivamente el proceso terapéutico.